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Toyota 4Runner

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Toyota 4Runner: Toyota's mid-size SUV. Body-on-frame construction (rare in modern crossovers). TRD Pro variant for off-road. T
Photo: Elise240SX / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

Toyota's mid-size SUV. Body-on-frame construction (rare in modern crossovers). TRD Pro variant for off-road. Toyota reliability for serious overland use.

The Toyota 4Runner is a mid-size SUV in continuous production since 1984 across five generations. The 4Runner uses body-on-frame construction (unusual in the modern crossover-dominated mid-size SUV market), providing serious off-road durability and tow capacity. The 4Runner has built one of the strongest reliability reputations in any segment. The 4Runner generations: First (1984-1989), Second (1990-1995), Third (1996-2002), Fourth (2003-2009), and Fifth (2010-2024). The fifth generation had an unusually long production run (15 years), reflecting the conservative engineering approach and dedicated owner community. The new sixth generation 4Runner launched 2024+ with refreshed styling. The TRD Pro variant of the 4Runner is the off-road focused trim. Standard with Fox shocks, BBS wheels, all-terrain tires, and TRD-specific styling. The TRD Pro 4Runner competes with the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon and Ford Bronco in the dedicated off-road SUV segment. On WhipJury, 4Runner submissions are particularly active among overland and off-road enthusiasts. Lifted 4Runners with aftermarket modifications (lift kits, larger tires, recovery gear, roof tents) are common. The body-on-frame construction supports serious off-road builds.

4Runner generations

First (1984-1989). Original 4Runner. Compact SUV.

Second (1990-1995). Refined first-generation.

Third (1996-2002). Larger and more refined.

Fourth (2003-2009). Modernized, V6 and V8 options.

Fifth (2010-2024). Long production run. TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road variants.

Sixth (2024+). Current generation. Refreshed styling.

4Runner on WhipJury

4Runner submissions are particularly active among overland enthusiasts. Lifted 4Runners with off-road modifications reliably do well. The TRD Pro variant has a strong following.

Frequently asked questions about Toyota 4Runner

Why is the 4Runner so popular for off-road?
Multiple factors. Body-on-frame construction provides off-road durability. Toyota reliability reputation. Strong aftermarket support. The TRD Pro variant offering serious factory off-road capability. Strong owner community for support and information sharing.
Is the 4Runner V8 still made?
The previous-generation 4Runner offered a 4.7 V8 in some trims through 2009. The fifth-generation 4Runner (2010-2024) was V6 only. The new 2024+ sixth-generation 4Runner has not announced V8 availability; current expectations are V6 plus hybrid options.
How much does a 4Runner cost?
Used 4Runners (fifth generation): project cars $15,000-$25,000, driver-quality $25,000-$45,000, clean low-mile $45,000-$60,000+. TRD Pro examples typically command 20-40% premium. New 2024+ 4Runner expected to start around $40,000.
Are 4Runners reliable?
Yes, exceptionally. The 1GR-FE V6 in fifth-generation 4Runners has been particularly reliable. Body-on-frame construction is durable. Common issues are typical age-related items, occasional electronics, and routine wear items. With proper maintenance, 4Runners regularly cross 250,000+ miles.
Is the 4Runner good for daily driving?
Yes, with caveats. The off-road ride character is firmer than crossover SUVs. Fuel economy is moderate (typically 17-19 mpg combined). Cargo capacity is good. The 4Runner is more truck-like than typical crossovers; many owners daily drive 4Runners despite the trade-offs.

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