Best Toyota 4Runner Years to Buy Used

Used Toyota 4runner Quick Facts

• A fifth-generation 2015-2024 Toyota 4Runner is the best choice when buying used.
• The 4Runner has some of the best resale numbers of any SUV.
• The original 4Runner featured two doors and a removable hardtop.

The Toyota 4Runner is legendary among those who use their SUV for its intended purpose: off-road adventuring. It has a long history of solid performance and capability coupled with an impressively long life. Since its inception, the 4Runner has employed body-on-frame construction, even though most competitors have moved to a unibody similar to a car’s construction.

Both have advantages and disadvantages, but the formula works well for the 4Runner, and that is all its buyers seem to care about. You will need to look elsewhere if you are looking for a smooth ride, the latest high-tech systems, a wide interior, or good fuel economy. But if your goals center around driving a rugged 4×4 SUV that can seat five, store lots of gear, and go just about anywhere, a used 4Runner may be your next vehicle.

• What Is the Best Model-Year Used Toyota 4Runner? 
• Toyota 4Runner By Generation: Which Should You Buy? 
• Which Year Toyota 4Runners Are the Best for Off-Roading?
• Is the Toyota 4Runner a Safe Vehicle?
• How Much Can a Toyota 4Runner Tow?
• Why Are Used Toyota 4Runners so expensive?
• What Are Some Known Issues With the Toyota 4Runner?
• Is the Toyota 4Runner a Good Vehicle?

What Is the Best Model-Year Used Toyota 4Runner? 

Suppose you’re looking for a used 4Runner with low mileage, some semblance of modern tech, and a proven track record. In that case, we’d opt for a late-model fifth-generation version, preferably 2020-2024, for its updated infotainment and driver assist systems. We’re OK with 2013-2015, too. The fifth-generation 4Runner spans an unusually long time frame, entering the market in 2010 and getting a modest makeover in 2014.

The fifth generation is the last to employ Toyota’s 4.0-liter V6 engine, one of the best V6 engines ever built. It has a solid reputation for longevity and durability. If you’re looking for something a little older and less expensive, the fourth-generation models have some perks, like an available V8 engine.

See used Toyota 4Runner SUVs near you.

Toyota 4Runner By Generation: Which Should You Buy? 

Sixth Generation: 2025 — Current Toyota 4Runner

The sixth-generation 4Runner departs from the fifth-generation model in almost every way possible, although it retains the retractable rear window, which is good.

The previous generation’s V6 gives way to two turbocharged 4-cylinder engines, one gasoline-only and the other backed by a hybrid-electric system. The base i-Force engine makes 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, while the i-Force MAX adds a hybrid component, bumping output to 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque. Both engines use an 8-speed automatic transmission that routes power in one of three ways: rear-wheel drive (RWD), part-time 4-wheel drive (4WD), or full-time 4-wheel drive (4WD).

The trim lineup includes the usual suspects: the SR5, Limited, and three TRD variants. Adding the hybrid engine opens the door to more choices, including the Platinum, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter.

Some 4Runners (think TRD, Platinum, and Trailhunter) come with more advanced 4-wheel-drive systems. There are also various suspension systems, such as Bilstein shocks on the TRD Off-Road, Fox shocks on the TRD Pro, an adaptive suspension on the Limited and Platinum, and the Old Man Emu monotube setup on the Trailhunter.

Along with its improved ride and handling, the sixth-generation 4Runner offers more driver assistance and connectivity. Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 comes standard. It includes forward collision warning and braking, lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and road sign assist. Also standard is a blind-spot monitor (extended coverage when towing), rear cross-traffic detection with trailer merge warning, and trailer sway control.

Some of the 4Runner’s more notable features include a large infotainment touchscreen (up to 14 inches), a 360-degree monitor, trailer hitch guidance, a digital display rearview mirror, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a power moonroof, and a hands-free power liftgate. Upper trims offer leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, a 12-speaker JBL audio system, and a power tilt/telescopic steering wheel.

See 2025 to current Toyota 4Runner SUVs near you.

Fifth Generation: 2010-2024 Toyota 4Runner

The fifth-generation 4Runner had a 14-year production run, during which it didn’t change much, at least mechanically. Newer versions (2020 and up) have more safety and driver-assist features and better infotainment systems.

For 2010, a one-year-only 157 hp 2.7-liter 4-cylinder is the base engine on the rear-drive SR5. All other trims have a 270 hp 4.0-liter V6. Two 4-wheel-drive systems are available: part-time 4-wheel drive or full-time 4-wheel drive. When not in use, both systems send power to the rear wheels.

New trims include the Trail Edition, which features Toyota’s Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), crawl control, and a locking rear differential. Over time, more trims and features join the lineup, such as an Optitron electroluminescent gauge cluster and Toyota’s Entune infotainment system. The 4Runner’s interior grows slightly larger than the previous generation’s, with an integrated third-row seat option that is woefully inadequate for adults.

A major makeover in 2014 adds an aggressive new front end, HID headlights, and a new TRD Pro trim for the 2015 model year that includes TRD-specific springs and Bilstein shocks. Later models gain more TRD-inspired trims, such as the TRD Off-Road and TRD Off-Road Premium. This generation also offers more safety equipment, with the Toyota Safety Sense-P safety tech suite becoming standard starting with the 2020 model. It includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlights, and lane-departure warning. 2020 models also have improved infotainment systems with a standard 8-inch screen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Amazon Alexa. For the off-road enthusiast, this is one of the better choices in the 4Runner family.

Model Year Changes:

2024: No significant changes.
2023:  A blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic detection are standard, and a new 40th Anniversary package debuts.
2022: The TRD Sport debuts.
2021: A new Trail Edition trim arrives, and all 4Runners now feature low-beam LED headlights.
2020: The 4Runner gets a major update, with new styling, Toyota Safety Sense-P, and  Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
2019: The TRD Pro adds Fox Internal Bypass shocks, a revised suspension, standard navigation, and an updated JBL audio system.
2018: New packages include the Wilderness and TRD Enhancement.
2017: The Trail and Trail Premium are renamed TRD Off-Road and TRD Off-Road Premium.
2016: There are no significant changes outside of some upgrades to the Entune audio and a slight increase to the max tow rating.
2015: A new TRD Pro Series trim features Bilstein shocks, a TRD suspension, and off-road tires.
2014: The major updates are some minor interior improvements and the arrival of the Entune Plus on the SR5.
2013: A switch replaces the previous transfer case pull lever.
2012: New audio options include the Entune system, iPod connectivity, and satellite radio.
2011: The 4-cylinder engine goes away.

See 2010 to 2024 Toyota 4Runner SUVs near you.

The Toyota 4Runner Early Years: Generation One through Four (1984-2009)

Fourth Generation: 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner

The fourth-generation Toyota 4Runner runs from 2003 to 2009 and is probably the best model range to shop for if you’re looking for a low-priced SUV with reasonable mileage and more modern conveniences. The 4Runner again grows in size and capability, dropping the 4-cylinder engine and opting for a standard 245-hp V6. A 4.7-liter V8 is offered as an option on the Limited and Sport trim. A 4-speed automatic comes standard, but later changes to a 5-speed after model year 2005.

The V8 initially produced 235 hp, but in 2005, Toyota added a variable valve timing system (VVTi) that increased output to 270 hp. V6 models receive a more sophisticated 4-wheel-drive system with multi-mode selectable settings, including 2-wheel drive. The V8 models employ a full-time 4-wheel-drive system. Four-wheel drive 4Runners also feature hill ascent and descent controls, plus a locking center differential. A new Sport trim gains a hood scoop, larger brakes, and Toyota’s X-REAS hydraulic shock absorber system, designed to reduce body lean in sharp curves. When properly equipped, the V8 model can tow up to 7,300 pounds.

Inside, the 4Runner’s slightly larger cabin offers a third-row seat, though legroom in said seat is pretty cramped. The addition also severely shrinks the cargo bay. The Limited trim has more luxury options, including navigation, JBL audio, automatic climate control, and a dual-camera rearview monitor. In 2008, side-curtain airbags become standard, and in 2009, the Trail Edition package for the SR5 arrives. It adds a locking rear differential, Bilstein shocks, Active Traction Control (A-TRAC), water-resistant seat fabric, and a new Tom-Tom navigation radio with Bluetooth, iPod integration, and detachable GPS screen.

Pricing for this generation will be considerably higher than any competitor from the same year, as resale remains one of the 4Runner’s best-selling points.

Third Generation: 1996-2002 Toyota 4Runner

The third generation runs from 1996 to 2002 and is about the oldest 4Runner we’d recommend as a used vehicle. No longer sharing an exterior or frame with Toyota’s Tacoma pickup, the 4Runner’s platform grows larger in all directions. This model includes more safety features, such as dual airbags and reinforced doors, which helped it achieve better safety ratings.

The previous generation’s fold-down rear gate changes to a flip-up design, but the retractable rear window remains. The suspension and steering are vastly improved, although the 4Runner’s ride and handling remain trucklike. Engines grow to include a 150-hp 2.7-liter 4-cylinder and 183-hp 3.4-liter V6. This is also the last generation to offer a manual transmission (4-cylinder only).

Toyota adds numerous upgrades throughout this series, including electronic stability control and A-TRAC active traction assist. These improvements make this generation a favorite of off-road enthusiasts, and numerous aftermarket suppliers cater to the 4Runner crowd.

Some issues for this generation include rusted frames, sagging rear suspensions, and blown head gaskets on the 3.4-liter V6.

Second Generation: 1990-1995 Toyota 4Runner

The second-generation Toyota 4Runner covered 1990 to 1995, setting the standard for all future 4Runner designs. Toyota jettisoned the original SUV’s removable roof and added a 4-door version alongside a low-production 2-door, which only ran for two years. This 4Runner uses much of the same mechanicals as the original, although the V6 versions have a chain-driven transfer case vs. the 4-cylinder’s gear-driven unit, and a set of coil springs replaces the old leaf springs.

You’ll find a more modern interior, with more luxury features added, like available power windows, leather seating, and cruise control. Regrettably, as cool as these old 4Runners look, they lack even the most rudimentary safety systems, although 1994 sees the addition of side-impact door beams.

First Generation: 1984-1989 Toyota 4Runner

The first 4Runner arrived in 1984 and ran until 1989. A stretched version of Toyota’s popular pickup, the 2-door 4Runner features a removable hardtop, second-row seats, and a station wagon-like retractable rear window that has to be lowered before the tailgate can be opened. Power comes from a 4-cylinder engine that later gains a turbocharger. Toyota offered a V6 in 1988.

Early 4Runners feature a solid front axle, but midway through this first generation, Toyota switched to an independent front suspension. A 4Runner from this generation will be hard to find in good condition, and as they have now become collector cars, the few out there will be selling for big bucks. Still, if you find one that hasn’t rusted too severely, the mechanicals are known for their ability to go 200-, 300-, even 400,000 miles. Don’t look for safety systems or even side-impact door beams, as they weren’t around back then.

See older Toyota 4Runner SUVs.

Which Year Toyota 4Runners Are the Best for Off-Roading?

While all 4Runners are capable off-road vehicles, a used fourth or fifth generation is probably your best bet. They combine powerful engine options with robust 4-wheel-drive systems and offer better build quality and safety features. A sixth-gen 4Runner is equally adept, but the lofty price tag may prohibit many from putting their investment in harm’s way.

Is the Toyota 4Runner a Safe Vehicle?

The first two generations offer the least passenger protection and are not recommended as daily drivers or family transporters. Each generation after the third gets progressively better safety ratings and crash test scores, as well as equipment like side-curtain airbags, advanced driver assists, and better cabin protection.

How Much Can a Toyota 4Runner Tow?

Max towing for a third-gen 4Runner is 5,000 pounds with the V6, and 3,500 pounds with the 4-cylinder. A fourth-gen 4Runner can pull up to 7,300 pounds with the V8, and 5,000 pounds with the V6. The fifth-generation models can pull up to 5,000 pounds, while the sixth-generation 4Runner can pull up to 6,000 pounds.

Why Are Used Toyota 4Runners so Expensive?

The 4Runner has an excellent reputation for durability, reliability, and longevity. It’s a solid machine with impressive off-road chops. As such, even high-mileage models are in high demand, which pushes the price up.

What Are Some Known Issues With the Toyota 4Runner?

Early-model 4Runners suffer the same rust issues as many of Toyota’s early trucks. The third-generation also has some rust issues, problems with warped brake rotors, sagging rear springs, and the possible failure of transmission cooling tubes that allow transmission oil to mix with radiator fluid. Toyota issued large unintended-acceleration recalls across various models in 2009-2011, so check a specific 4Runner’s VIN for any campaigns.

Head gasket failures on the 2003-2005 V6 4Runners are reported more than average by owners, while the V8 models need their timing belts changed religiously every 90,000 miles.

The fifth generation has no major issues of concern, although there have been some complaints about the Entune infotainment system freezing up or being slow to change screens. A few years, from 2010 through 2012, have owner reports regarding the brakes, electrical bugs, rust, and peeling paint. Some versions that have seen a lot of off-road use may need to have their suspension components checked out.

Is the Toyota 4Runner a Good Vehicle?

The Toyota 4Runner is a very good vehicle, provided you’re buying one for its intended purpose. However, if you’re looking for a comfortable, roomy SUV that can seat seven, gets good gas mileage, offers all-wheel drive, and has stellar safety ratings, then car-based SUVs like the Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot make better choices.

See Toyota 4Runner SUVs near you.

Editor’s Note: We have updated this article since its initial publication.