Overview & Reviews

Few SUVs have the level of name recognition that the Toyota 4Runner enjoys. Launched in 1984, the 4Runner has always been Toyota's smaller and more affordable complement to the legendary Land Cruiser. Even though the first 4Runner was little more than Toyota's compact two-door pickup with a removable top, it was nonetheless rugged and tough. Over time, the 4Runner has earned its own reputation as a durable vehicle -- off-road and on.

During the SUV-crazy '90s, Toyota introduced more models, which allowed the company to move the 4Runner up a few notches in size, accoutrements and price. Still truck-based and still outfitted with a solid rear axle, the current Toyota 4Runner boasts old-school brawn. A midsize crossover SUV will likely be a better choice for most shoppers, considering a crossover's more carlike handling and fuel economy, but the 4Runner continues to be a top choice for a dependable SUV that's both comfortable, yet rugged enough for recreational off-road duty.

Current Toyota 4Runner
The current Toyota 4Runner is based on the same platform as the rugged FJ Cruiser. As ever, it has a trucklike solid rear axle for superior off-road performance. There are three trim levels: SR5, Trail and Limited. All are powered by a 4.0-liter V6 that makes 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. The sole transmission offered is a five-speed automatic. The SR5 and Limited can be had in either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive (part-time system on SR5, full-time system on the Limited), while the Trail comes only with part-time 4WD.

The SR5 comes standard with alloy wheels, skid plates, foglights, air-conditioning, cruise control, a rearview camera, full power accessories with a power rear window, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth, a touchscreen interface, Toyota's Entune smartphone integration system and an eight-speaker audio system. The Trail adds a locking rear differential, Crawl Control (which automatically modulates the engine and brakes when ascending or descending hills), off-road tires and water-resistant upholstery.

The luxurious Limited gets Toyota's X-REAS adaptive suspension dampers (for controlling body roll), keyless entry and ignition, dual-zone automatic climate control and an upgraded audio system. Major options include a third-row seat and a navigation system. The available Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) can disconnect the front and rear stabilizer bars at speeds below 40 mph for greater wheel articulation over uneven terrain.

In reviews, we've been pleased with the Toyota 4Runner's excellent off-road ability and strong V6 engine. It's also useful for carrying people and cargo thanks to its available third-row seat and 90 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. Just don't expect it to drive like a car-based crossover -- this is a traditional SUV. If all you need is an urban runabout, there are better choices.

Used Toyota 4Runner Models
The current 4Runner represents the fifth-generation model that debuted for 2010. The new styling had an edgier look, highlighted by a blocky front grille and pronounced fender flares. At first the SR5 2WD came standard with a 2.7-liter inline-4 (157 hp and 178 lb-ft) matched to a four-speed automatic gearbox. Given its underpowered nature, we weren't sad to see it discontinued in the next model year. For 2012, the 4Runner received Toyota's available Entune smartphone integration system. These 4Runners lack the current version's rather aggressive front end styling, revamped interior and a few newly standard features including the Entune system and a rearview camera.

Prior to this, there was the fourth-generation 4Runner, which was produced from 2003-'09. As before, this 4Runner was meant to be off-road-worthy, good-looking and built to last. The frame employed fully boxed side rails that significantly increased torsional rigidity. This eliminated much of the body flex that gave the previous version a sloppy ride on the highway. The fourth-generation 4Runner also featured a roomier and much-improved cabin.

The standard engine was a 4.0-liter V6 rated at 245 hp, and it originally came with a four-speed automatic. There was also an optional V8 that produced just 235 hp but a healthy 320 lb-ft of torque (vs. 282 lb-ft for the V6); a five-speed automatic was mandatory here. In 2005, the V8 was bumped up to 270 hp and 330 lb-ft, and the V6 received a five-speed automatic. A revised power-rating procedure for 2006 caused output numbers to drop a bit, but actual power was unchanged.

This 4Runner was available in SR5, Sport or Limited trim, and a third-row seat was optional on SR5 and Limited beginning in 2004. Even the SR5 was quite nicely equipped, including features like automatic climate control and full power accessories. The Sport added off-road-ready items like a roof rack and side steps, as well as bigger wheels and front brakes and Toyota's X-REAS suspension system for reducing body roll. The Limited was the top-of-the-line model, boasting leather seating and dual-zone climate control. A navigation system was optional, and it included a back-up camera starting in 2004. Model year 2006 brought more styling tweaks and extra sound-deadening material, and the previously optional side curtain airbags became standard for '08.

In reviews, we found the fourth-generation Toyota 4Runner to be surprisingly light and responsive for a truck-based SUV. For general use, the powerful and more fuel-efficient V6 was satisfactory, but the torquey V8 was useful for towing, and it was also more refined. As expected, this 4Runner shined off-road. On the downside, it provided less cargo space than most of its midsize competitors, and the optional third-row seat didn't fold completely flat and offered limited legroom. Also, the 4Runner's utilitarian roots produced trucklike body motions at times.

The third-generation 4Runner was sold from 1996-2002. It came in three trims -- base, SR5 and Limited. It looked great but lacked power, and it also had a hefty price tag. Depreciation has neutralized much of the price premium, however, and this 4Runner still holds its value quite well, which is advantageous when it comes time to sell.

As numerous car-based SUVs entered the market, the third-generation 4Runner grew old quickly, and its weaknesses began to show. Two engines were available: a 150-hp 2.7-liter inline-4 and a 183-hp 3.4-liter V6 engine, neither of which was particularly strong for the time. Some of our editors also thought that the body was too narrow, making the cabin feel tight and claustrophobic. Furthermore, the stereo was difficult to operate -- an unusual criticism for a Toyota product. Still, this model impressed with its off-road prowess and typically high Toyota build quality. Buyers in search of a tough, capable SUV with a reputation for durability could do much worse than a 4Runner from this era.

Prior to the third generation, the Toyota 4Runner was even rougher around the edges, but it was a solid value in its day. The second-generation 4Runner, sold from 1990-'95, came in two trim levels: SR5 and SR5 V6. The SR5 was powered by a 116-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder, while the SR5 V6 came with a 150-hp 3.0-liter V6. Most models sold were four-doors, though two-door models were also offered.

User Reviews:

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  Luxury Without the High Price - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By fanatic - December 3 - 10:00 am

  Nice, comfortable vehicle which handles well in any terrain. Quiet for a truck based SUV. I drive the Ford Expedition also and it is night and day as far as handling, power (yes, Toyotas V6 out does it)and just the overall quality. For example, when you shut the doors on a Ford, it sounds like a tin can. The Toyota sounds solid and sturdy. I recommend this vehicle to any family that needs 7 seats and wants to feel safe.

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  Pleased - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By dave - December 2 - 1:00 am

  My third SUV, last SUV was a Lexus 300, This vehicle rides nearly as well, Additionally I get excellent MPG with responsible driving. I have gotten as high as 27-28 mpg on open road and avg 23-25 with normal driving. Reliability has been excellent.

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  Mixed Emotions - 1999 Toyota 4Runner
  By Juffowup - November 30 - 10:20 am

  Bought with 20k miles now have 155k. I would buy a Toyota again. Probably not a 4runner just because of the gas mileage 15/18. My water pump went out twice before 100k, dealer said it was a common failure. MAFS went out around 140k. Around 120k the radiator failed internally forcing coolant into the transmission (rare failure), $4500 for new tranny and radiator. Power antenna went out, common failure. Starter contacts wore and needed to be replaced. Coolant line to rear heater broke. Even though it sounds bad, I still like my 4runner. Most failure can be resolved by do it yourselfers with a little research.

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  This is a tank - 1995 Toyota 4Runner
  By Luka - November 30 - 2:00 am

  I purchased this 4 Runner wreaked in the front left end and rebuilt it. It took a lick and fixed up real good. Solid car. Not a tire spinner, but good all round reliability. Nothing more than general maintenance on the car with no repercussions of the previous wreak. Change the oil and go.

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  TOYOTA FOUR RUNNER - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By alwjandro calderon - November 28 - 10:00 am

  ITS REALLY COOL BECAUSE IM ABLE TO TAKE IT EVERY WHERE IG WITH ME BECAUSE ITS A VERY RELIABLE CAR .

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  Best SUV Ive Ever Owned - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Clint DeBrular - November 26 - 2:30 am

  Owning this vehicle has been nothing short of joyous. I cant say enough about the build quality. My other mode of transportation is a BMW m-5 and Ive got to say that it is just as well built as that $70,000.00 BMW! Not only is it built well but the performance is just as stunning. Road handling is carlike while off road is just what you would expect from a real truck. Plus, you can pull up to a fancy resturant and still hold your head high. Ford, Chevy, Dodge -- I dont think so. Give me a Toyota 4-Runner any day of the week.. and twice on Sunday.

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  No idea how this ride gets poor reviews - 2015 Toyota 4Runner
  By Jay - November 24 - 3:04 pm

  After much deliberating between the 4Runner, Ford Explorer, V6 Subaru Outback, and the quickly dismissed Nissan XTerra, I finally decided to jump aboard the Toyota bandwagon. I absolutely love this thing. Everything about it. Well, except a few things: Im not a fan of the eco-drive, which cannot be disabled (if my research has proven anything). Id rather have all six cylinders pumping 100% of the time, even at the cost of losing a few mpg. The power just feels like it lags a little bit, but then again, I did just come off a V8 Mustang... I digress. Speaking of mpg, my average mpg is very solid! From (odometer) 5,000-10,000 miles in the vehicle with approximately 10% off-roading, 50% city, 40% highway miles, I averaged 19.5 mpg - not bad for a 4x4. Another little nitpick I have is the 4x4 electronic knob - I mean, come on. If you have read any review at all on this ride, then of course you know about squirrely handling - that is on pavement. Sure it may not hug corners like a car; sure it may have more body rolling action than a Beyonce music video; and sure, I think it may be just ever-so-slightly underpowered. But lets be real, no car is perfect. This was just the ride that I felt would be most dependable, most comfortable, and have the best quality for MANY years to come. All in all, I couldnt be happier with my purchase. Personal opinion warning: The vehicle is very sharp and aggressive looking; its main purpose may be to commute several miles to and from work during the week, but unless you take it off road, youll never even get a glimpse of just how great it really handles or why it deserves to look so aggressively appealing. PS: The "Premium" adds the sunroof, (am I going to say it? Yes, I am) high quality leatherette upholstery, and upgraded stereo at a very reasonable price.

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  Extremely Pleased - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By Raymond Carver - November 24 - 4:53 am

  I initially planned on purchasing a 2009 4runner, but when I saw the redesigned fifth generation, I was hooked. My father and brother both owned third generation models which performed admirably (my brothers is over 200,000 miles now and has not had any major issued). The most noticeable improvement for me is the 2010s enhanced ride and pure drivability. I felt very confident driving aggressively through Houston traffic on my way back to Louisiana after purchasing the vehicle. Smooth power, precise handling, and a rugged, attractive exterior; a class-act all around.

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  Great SUV - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By valley - November 24 - 2:00 am

  I was going to buy the 2002 4Runner when the huge discounts started last September. Boy, Am I glad I waited and bought the 2003. Not only does it outperform, but so far has lived up to everything as advertised and the dealer matched my price of $800 over invoice. I have already had the pleasure of taking it through the Snow Packed Sierras during the Xmas holiday. Since then, I have racked up 5500 miles in 6 weeks between the mountains and coast. I didnt think I would like the dual cargo system, but for the Californian who skis and golfs, it is perfect. Finally, as a former GM Truck owner the interior controls are more user friendly and of better quality.

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  Best vehicle I have ever owned - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Lee Towsley - November 19 - 8:17 pm

  I drove this 4Runner 275000 miles before selling it. I was still able to sell it for $2500.