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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  Improvement on near perfection... - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By karbourt - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I previously owned a 98 4Runner Limited and loved it....this one has carried a lot of the stuff I loved on the old one but improved a lot of the interior...the cup holders are now located in a place that makes sense...not in front of the air conditioner...the interior of the vehicle is wider and much more comfortable...probably the best thing is the ride is 100% smoother than the previous model...theres nothing I would change about it!!!

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  The tank - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By seriousnut - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Its been a great vehicle so far, a high performance tank. It drives great, is incredibly quiet & comfortable, looks great, handles well. My only knock is mileage. The computers consistently 1.5 - 2 mpg higher than actual mileage, & in normal commuting (some highway, some town) Im only averaging a little over 16 mpg.

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  2003 Toyota 4-Runner - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By DougD - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Extremely pleased with the new 4- Runner. A quiet, roomy interior...and impressive power under the hood.

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  My Review - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By Leonard - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Its a great SUV for anyone. Easy and fun to drive. Makes you want to go out on the road evenr if you do not need to. Its safe for a family car. Everyone is a amized with this car. For sure I am keeping up with the Jones.

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  great truck - 2003 Toyota 4Runner
  By don1485 - September 26 - 10:00 am

  this is my second 4 runner. I was pleased with my last one 96 and didnt have to spend a penny on any maintenance costs other than routine care. I am very pleased with my 2003. I hope to have the same experience as I had with my 96. So far, so good!

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  4 alot more than Running - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Wally - September 26 - 10:00 am

  With 4000 miles now, everything has been great with this truck. We traded a Cadillac Escalade for this and we wonder why we didnt do it sooner. We have gotten excellent gas mileage for a SUV, its quiet, handles, amd brakes extremely well. One thing I would have like to have been able to get is height adjustment on the passenger seat. There is no need for a rear cargo door button because there is an electronic release on the outside of the cargo door. The motorized locking mechanisim is very nice for those who dont like to slam doors shut. The JBL stereo is very nice too. The 4.0 six is a great engine.

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  Very Satisfied Consumer - 2004 Toyota 4Runner
  By Qz - September 26 - 10:00 am

  The only thing Ive found frustrating is when I go to use the home link garage door opener at night. It would have been nice to have it back lit.

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  2005 4Runner 4x4 - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
  By Sean - September 24 - 2:00 pm

  A great vehicle at a great price. After much research, this was the choice for me, and no regrets! I opted for the new third row seating, and what a blessing. It is easily the nicest vehicle I have ever owned, and the build quality is like that of cars and SUVs costing thousands more. Even in SR5 trim, the thing is pretty much loaded, and the ride comfort and creature features for a 4x4 cant be beat.

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  Finally a fun SUV - 2006 Toyota 4Runner
  By Tom - September 24 - 12:40 am

  Very happy with the vehicle. Great styling, superior handling for a Sport Ute, and power to impress with the V8, even sounds good! No problems so far, didnt expect any either. Very comfortable, quiet interior, AC and heat distribute nicely, great stock sound system. Could not be happier. Plenty of headroom (Im 64") as well. Combined street/Hwy mileage 19.1

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  New 4runners, NOT as good as the last, v6 weak.. - 2010 Toyota 4Runner
  By scratchgolfer2 - September 20 - 11:52 pm

  I have had the last few 4runners now, the Limited 1997, then the amazing 2007 V8 Limited. I love the cars, performance and Toyota quality. I really didnt want to trade in my 2007 but I hit 100K so figured I would check them out, not too crazy about the new style but it is okay and thought the new higher HP V6 might be okay at 270HP, however it is NOT, it is WAY underpowered for this size vehicle. It also doesnt have the same solid feel that my previous 4runners always had that others never had. Makes me wonder if they really changed some things here....engine just doesnt feel right.....way to slow, with the Tundra 5.7 v8 as an option this might be a great truck