Generational list for the Toyota 4Runner: 2014-present, facelifted 5th Gen (N280). 2010 – 2013 5th Gen (N280) 4th Gen (N210) Facelift, 20062009.
In This Article...
When did the fifth generation 4runners debut?
There are several excellent options available when looking to purchase a used 4Runner. Most of the time, we can determine the “By examining reliability ratings, performance metrics, and customer complaints, one can determine the best model year, but when it comes to the 4Runner, there aren’t just one (or even two or three) bests because, in all honesty, Toyota really outdid themselves with the 4Runner. Reliability ratings have been continuously excellent over the previous 10 or even 20 years, and the same can be said for customer satisfaction ratings, which have constantly received above-average approval from owners. There aren’t many complaints, in terms of numbers. In fact, it’s so low that you might assume there’s a mistake, but there isn’t. It’s a credit to the 4Runner’s solid construction that so few drivers have had reservations about it, which is a sign of its famous dependability. Honestly, figuring out the “Your particular preferences and financial situation will determine which 4Runner model year is best. With this in mind, we’ve picked a few model years that have stood out over the past 15 years. Because 4Runners continue to sell so well, they can be more expensive than other SUVs that are the same age.
th Gen: 20172019 | 20102013
Model years 2019, 2018, and 2017 are wonderful options if you want to get into a “newer 4Runner. Although the price is still over $25,000, there isn’t much of a difference between the current 2020 and 2021 vehicles and these years’ versions, so you may save some money while still enjoying the newest safety features, technology, and body styles. You can save around $8,200 by buying a used 4Runner that is only two years old instead of buying one brand-new, and it will still be a fairly recent model with lots of usable life left.
Although the model years 20102013 are still considered to be in the 5th generation, they are less expensive due to their age. For less than $15,000, you may own a 2010 or 2011. They still have a lot of life remaining because the 4Runner is considered one of the greatest SUVs for driving far beyond 200,000 miles. These model years are likely to have off-roading features like crawl control and many terrain settings because they have undergone significant modifications from the prior versions. Starting in 2010, there were also a lot more trim options available.
th Gen: 2007 and 2008
The 2007 and 2008 are singled out for special mention because, in addition to receiving faultless reliability ratings, they also have comparatively few complaints for vehicles that are over 15 years old. Depending on what you’re looking for, it’s also simpler to locate one for less than $10,000, potentially even less than $9,000. The fourth generation is perfect for you if you’re searching for a more potent vehicle because it is also unique in that it was the only generation to offer a V8 engine.
Which Toyota 4Runner generation is the best?
Although almost every model has the ability to become a nice, trustworthy used SUV, the 2017 Toyota 4runner model year is the most trustworthy. The majority of vehicles in the fifth and current generation, which debuted in 2010, are powered by a 4.0 liter V6 engine. Consumers ranked the 2018 and 2017 models first, according to J.D. Power. The 2017 model, however, has a higher reliability score.
The 2017 Toyota 4Runner additionally received a J.D. Power Dependability Award. The reliability score for this capable pre-owned SUV is 88/100. The 4Runner gained a few trim levels in 2017 and now offers three TRD-branded variants.
Nevertheless, because 4Runner models retain their value well, even secondhand ones are frequently quite pricey. According to J.D. Power, a used Toyota 4Runner costs, on average, between $23,992 and $48,884.
When did the body style of the 4Runner change?
When the current 4Runner model made its debut in 2010, it featured boxier look. It comes standard with a 4.0-liter V-6 engine and a five-speed automatic transmission. Rear- or four-wheel drive options are available. 2014 saw the introduction of aggressive new front-end appearance for the 4Runner, and the United States saw the introduction of the TRD Pro trim level for the 2015 model year.
When did the fourth generation 4runners debut?
4Runner, 2003-2009 (Fourth Generation) Only the fourth-generation 4Runner has ever had a V8, and it is this model that really took the 4Runner into the contemporary era by providing just enough cutting-edge features to seem competitive in the early 2000s.
What year is the sixth-generation 4Runner?
A new 4Runner is not included in a 2022 Toyota dealer roadmap that was leaked. For the 2023 model year, Toyota has already revealed upgrades to the 5th generation 4Runner. Therefore, the sixth-generation 4Runner won’t likely appear until 2023 for the 2024 model year, at the earliest.
Toyota is switching to their new TNGA-F truck chassis for their body-on-frame pickup trucks and SUVs. It serves as the foundation for the brand-new Land Cruiser, Tundra, Lexus LX 600, and Sequoia. It should be employed in a reduced size for both the new Tacoma pickup and the 4Runner.
The 4Runner has typically been produced in Japan, much like the Land Cruiser. Is it possible for Toyota to move some or all of the 4Runner manufacture to North America with the new shared platform?
Probably. Toyota will want the 4Runner to have higher fuel efficiency. This most certainly entails turbocharging, a transmission with more than five gears, and an engine with a smaller displacement than the 4.0-liter V6.
The 2.4-liter inline-four turbocharged from the brand-new Lexus NX 350, which produces 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, is the front-runner for the base engine (substantially more torque than the current V6).
greater trim In order to compete with the Wrangler and Bronco, 4Runners can offer an improved engine option. However, that might not be the Tundra’s 3.5-liter V6 with 400 horsepower.
Yes. By 2025, Toyota wants every model to include a hybrid option. Tundra provides a hybrid. There is just one hybrid version of the Sequoia. The 4Runner ought to do the same. How will be in doubt.
One Toyota analyst thinks the 2.4-liter inline-four turbocharged engine might be replaced with a new hybrid version for the 4Runner. Other options may be a plug-in hybrid vehicle like the RAV4 Prime or a full-on assault on the Bronco and Wrangler using the Tundra’s V6 hybrid, which has 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. We’re not holding out much hope for the latter choice.
The new Tundra’s interior underwent a significant renovation, as seen below. Toyota’s latest infotainment system, which debuted on the Lexus NX with an optional 14-inch touchscreen, should be adopted by the 4Runner. Toyota typically doesn’t strive to impress customers with the quality of its inside materials. But anticipate some small improvements to help fend off competitors.
The Toyota EV plan was first revealed last winter. The designs on display were a strange Compact Cruiser and an electric pickup. Nothing resembling a 4Runner was on show. We wouldn’t be shocked to see a 4Runner that runs entirely on electricity. But if one did, we would be astonished.
V6 or V8 4Runner: Which is better?
Politics, religion, and the question of whether the fourth-generation 4runner’s V6 or V8 engine is superior are the three topics that are frequently too divisive to discuss with others. If you have ever spent any time on the 4runner forums online, that is at least how it appears.
The truth is that both the 4.0 V6 and 4.7 V8 engines deliver excellent performance and dependability. While the V8 is smoother and gives more performance, the V6 is more fuel-efficient and needs a little less upkeep. Both are excellent choices; it just depends on how you intend to use your 4Runner.
There are many supporters of both the 1GR V6 and the 2UZ V8, and the majority of them aren’t persuaded that one is equally as good. The truth is that both engines are capable of handling every activity that an SUV might be used for, whether it be commuting, hauling, or off-roading. Both of them are poorer and better at different areas.
I’ll do my best to be as impartial and as informative as I can given that I myself possess a V8. It’s important to note that I’ve personally driven both the V6 and V8 4Runners.
Look at the chart below to see each motor’s advantages before we compare these two fantastic motors in more detail:
Let’s now examine each engine in more detail to see how it stacks up in various scenarios.
What Toyota 4Runner issue is the most prevalent?
The following 4Runner models have the most often reported issues:
What does a 4Runner have high mileage?
You might get 300,000 miles out of a Toyota 4Runner. Some drivers desire more, even though a Toyota 4Runner with 200,000 miles on it is amazing.
A 2016 4Runner is what generation?
The 4th Gen 4Runner is now the vehicle for you if you’re seeking for an offroading vehicle with a touch of style or a car your spouse won’t criticize. Along with a new, revised chassis and driveline, the 4th Generation 4Runner has undergone yet another makeover.
Like in previous years, the new driveline is offered in two configurations, however the 4 cylinder engine is no longer an option at all. You now have the option of a 4.0 6cyl or the highly desired 4.7l v8, rather than a 4cyl being the smaller engine.
The 4th Gen 4Runner now boasts a v8 engine, which is ideal for off-road driving, but it only comes in automatic, which may be a drawback to some. But don’t be deceived by the 4.0.
Even though it is now the smaller engine, neither one is weak; both engines are strong and get excellent mpg.
If you ever need to haul something or decide you want to undertake a big lift and need the extra power, the 4.7l v8 4th Gen 4Runner is ideal. The 4.0 6cyl 4th Gen 4Runner is ideal if you want a daily driver offroad vehicle since, unlike the v8, changes can be made while maintaining the 6cyl’s mpg.
The 4.0 6cyl 4th Gen 4Runner does not have any significant flaws, but you should always check it over carefully. The 4.7l v8 and 4.0 6cyl are both bulletproof engines, albeit the 4.7l v8 does occasionally develop cracks or leaks in the exhaust manifold.
The 4th Gen 4Runner is ideal if you want a beast on the trails thanks to the 4.7l v8 upgrade. The electricity is really helpful while you are on a path in practically every circumstance. The 4th Gen 4Runner now offers a 4.7l v8 option for the first time in the history of the Toyota 4Runner. This is a MASSIVE advancement for the 4Runner community.
Automatic vs. manual shouldn’t be a consideration for anyone purchasing a 4Runner from this vintage. You are limited to using an automatic transmission for your off-road excursions unless you wish to undertake a transmission switch. Some people find this inconceivable, and some 5th Gen people may not even be aware of what a manual is. To each his or her own.
The available offroad improvements for the 4th Gen 4Runner are very comparable to those for the 3rd Gen 4Runner. The sole difference is that roll cage kits are not as widely available as they were for the first, second, and third generations. Unless you have something specifically manufactured for the 4th generation 4Runner, of course.
th Gen Toyota 4Runner (2009-2022+Present)
The 5th Gen is the vehicle for you if you’re looking for something that can go off-road that is either quite new or old. The newest 4Runner generation includes a new chassis and an entirely new appearance.
The 4.7l v8 is lost, and the only engine to remain with an automatic transmission is the 4.0 6cyl. A 2.7l 4cyl auto option was available with the exception of 2010 however it is not very frequent.
Similar to the 4th Gen’s 4.0 from before, this version has no significant flaws. The 5th Gen does, however, have a little bit more oomph than the 4.0 of the 4th Gen.
The 5th Gen 4Runner comes in a number of outstanding off-road versions, including the traditional SR5, Trail, TRD Pro, TRD Off-Road, and Limited.
Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, or KDSS for short, is a hydraulic system that stabilizes your 4Runner on the road and detects when your wheels drop or you experience slippage off-road. You probably have an aftermarket suspension and more travel in the SR5, TRD Pro, and TRD Off-Road without KDSS.
KDSS has MANY GREAT advantages and few drawbacks. Visit our article comparing the TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road 4Runner. We wrote about KDSS and gave it high accolades.
Travel is the flaw. With KDSS, your suspension will travel less than suspensions without KDSS. Unless you are truly considering long trip suspension lift systems and a wide range of travel, this doesn’t really come into play.
The fifth generation is not initially equipped for off-road driving. It leaves the gates prepared for the fire road. The 5th Gen will probably need some work if you want to get it ready for off-road mortal battle.
The TRD Pro, which comes with enhanced Bilstein TRD tuned Suspension, would be the best option if you want to acquire anything upgraded right away. Given this, you will require more than the simple suspension update that comes with a “unbranded model.
Consider installing an adjustable suspension system on your 5th Gen if you really want to kick things up.
However, if you choose to purchase a 5th Gen, a stock SR5 can be significantly changed for less money than purchasing one of the special models, depending on what you desire. You won’t have to deal with KDSS if you have an SR5. When it comes to on-road performance, the KDSS excels on a number of fronts. Look over our comparison of the TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road and make your own judgment.
The “Although an enhanced KDSS suspension is good, working with KDSS can take a little longer if you need to switch your suspension, links, add some sliders, and install a skid plate. Although KDSS is a pain in the ass to work around at times, it is highly rewarded for on-road and broad off-road use with all of these capabilities. Additionally, KDSS has a few tips that facilitate mod creation.
It’s similar to the 3rd and 4th gen options for improvements for the 5th generation. Again, there are no roll cage kits available, which is typical. But compared to the 4Runner’s first two versions, there are even more aftermarket bumpers, lights, suspensions, roof racks, and lift kits. So, more diversity of the same kind of enhancements.
Runner Model History & Generation Summary
My own opinion is to get a 3rd Gen 4Runner if you want an older vehicle with a wider range of modifications. Both the 4th and 5th Gen 4Runners are fantastic cars if you’re searching for something cutting-edge but still powerful. Either path would be ideal for crawling your favorite mall or engaging in serious off-roading, fire roads, or both.
Buy a 1st or 2nd Gen 4Runner and lift, straight axle swap, install a roll cage, or v8 swap it if you want something with a lot of power and the ability to be fully customized.
Whatever 4Runner you decide to use for off-roading, as a daily vehicle, or a combination of the two, I hope you enjoy it, have fun with it, and remain safe while doing so.
This was a really unique piece that we released. Many people contributed to showcasing each and every 4Runner generation in all of their splendor. For this Instagram post, we received almost 200 photographs, from which we chose the ones you see above.
Reputable Companies that Offer Mods for 4Runners
- http://www.pelfreybilt.com
- http://www.shrockworks.com
- http://www.southernstyleoffroad.com
- http://www.addictedoffroad.com
- http://www.cbioffroadfab.com
- http://www.c4fabrication.com
- http://www.lowrangeoffroad.com
- https://www.4wheelparts.com/
- http://arbusa.com/
- https://www.toyteclifts.com/
- http://allprooffroad.com/