2005 Toyota 4Runner Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.74/5 Average
240 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The base V6 now comes with a five-speed automatic, while the optional V8 has been upgraded to deliver 270-hp and 330 pound-feet of torque. A rollover sensor now comes with the optional head curtain airbag system. A limited-slip differential has been added to the stability control system. SR5 models now feature a chrome grille, color-keyed bumpers and black running boards, while the Sport model get a color-keyed grille. All Limiteds receive color-keyed bumpers, illuminated black running boards and a black roof rack.

Pros:
  • Powerful engine lineup, well mannered on pavement, above average off-road capability, comfortable, well-trimmed cabin, long list of standard equipment.
Cons:

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 240.00
  • Fun and Fast - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Traded my landcruiser in on 05 Sport V8. Great engine and suspension is firm but very stable. This SUV will hold the road and has the engine to make it fun. Getting 17.5 mpg. not broken in yet so it may get better (still much better then the cruiser). Typical Toyota quality. An all around great vehicle!

  • Nothing Better - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    So much quieter than my Jeep Grand Cherokee, much more solid feel too. The 4runner is a design that has proven itself year in and year out for a reason. It is more than capable off road (drive it on the beach every week) and has good manners on the road.

  • my 2004 4 runner 2 time around - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    this is my 2nd 4 runner, the first was a 2000. never had a problem. best vehicle ive owned.

  • Had I Only Known - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Spent last year looking at vehicles from a-z. Hands down this is the best vehicle purchase of my life. Rarely are expectations met and even rarer are they exceeded. Almost bit on a Land Rover LR3, about $15k more than my Limited 4Runner - thank god i didnt. I love this vehicles looks, ride, tightness and overall quality feel after 2500 miles. First time Toyota owner and I am impressed. I really trust the vehicle.

  • TOYOTA QUALITY!! THE BEST REAL SUV!!! - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    The 4Runner is the best of the best in terms of a true off road SUV!! It has a super smooth ride and the styling is awesome. This is the best vehicle Ive ever owned! I have just over 50K miles on it now and get 20+ MPG overall! Goes great in snow, sand, over large hills - and on the road! A must buy if youre looking for a great SUV!!!

  • Decent, but its not perfect - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    The good: easy to drive around town, not bad on the road up to 300 miles or so, very sensitive to tire rotation as it is 4wd, decent rock crawling/off road capability, decent tow vehicle. The bad: windows rattle like an old Camaro when partially down, vibration at 1800 rpm, engine idles too high when cold, expensive maintenance in the future if you keep it 90-100K miles, timing belt and valve adjustment. Is this the very last vehicle to require a valve adjustment?? Window noise.

  • How to make this great ride work for you - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    I shopped every SUV on the market and after multiple years of ownership I feel qualified to give this vehicle the review it deserves. There were a few drawbacks to this vehicle when comparing it to others, but Ive come up with a few work-arounds: Cargo Space - lower than most SUVs this is easily and inexpensively fixed with the addition of a roof box or hitch mounted rack / storage. Leather Seats - a dealer add on! Confusing 4wd system - just earmark the page the description is on. Once you figure out when to drop it into Lo / lock the center differential / etc., youre going to love driving this thing in the snow. Dash - Youll get use to function over form.

  • Excellent - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Excellent choice - 4WD systems are excellent for snow and off-road. Comfort and driving dynamics continue to impress. Even after just short of 1yr ownership it still amazes me how competent and sure footed it drives. Ive owned Jeep and Ford previously - there is no comparison. I ride in friends 05 Explorer and 05 G. Cherokee and now wonder what they were thinking...the 4 Runner is that great. As long as you are comfortable with the "odd" seating position and not getting cash on the hood like a domestic - you cant make a better choice for a mid-size SUV.

  • 4 runner Sport V8 - Awsome - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    Just put 1500 miles on in the first month. Towed my 17 foot whaler to Cape Cod, did not even know the boat was attached. I just moved up from a 97 Tacoma 4x4 and need to get use to the automatic. Great truck, comfortable, quiet, quiet, quiet. Plenty of room for 2 kids, wife and dog. The suspension is tight, the wheels grip well. Great visibility. Wanted a pathfinder off-road - got the V8 Sport for $2000 less, which I think is the best value out there. Paid right around $29K after rebate, still a lot for a vehicle but I know it will last me 7-9 years without a problem, all my other Toyotas have!!!!!

  • Great SUV! - 2005 Toyota 4Runner
    By -

    This is my second 4Runner after driving my 1996 for 289,000 miles.The tanklike build is no longer there, so dont expect to be backing into trees and stuff without replacing either bumper.The ride is much improved, along with the cabin noise.The sunroof is a pain, since you either press the button to let it open the hatch all the way, or punch the button in short spurts to inch it back.The cup holders were redesigned into the console with adjustable grips and lighted for nighttime driving.The JBL Synthesis stereo is great.The fuel economy is 20- 21, which is similar to my 1996 model.But, I expect it will get better as it gets broken in. Interior needs XSP seats standard.

Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area