The 4Runner has earned a reputation as one of the most durable and capable vehicles built by Toyota. The 4Runner's consistent performance has made it a worldwide hit, making it one of the best-selling Toyota vehicles in its entire lineup. Born in the mid-1980s, the 4Runner has become the premier competitor in the Sports Utility Vehicle category. Also marketed as the Hilux Surf, Toyota’s flagship 4Runner is one of the few SUVs on the market that have been nicknamed "pure-breed" for its insane off-road abilities.
As a successor of the reliable third-generation lineup, the fourth-generation Toyota 4Runner made its debut in 2003. It rolled out of the production line with extreme body and chassis modifications. It had a Land Cruiser Prado 120 series-inspired exterior styling and other cool design cues. Arriving in the SR5, Sport Edition, and Limited models, this generation utilized new V6 and V8 engine options with more power. This generation had its last curtain call in 2009, after which it was replaced by the fifth-generation lineup. Despite its end, the fourth-generation model is known to be the best of all. Gone, but not forgotten.
We will discuss its models, its related problems, what to look for, how much it will cost, and what model year to add to your collection.
How Much Does A Fourth-Gen Toyota 4Runner Cost Today?
These vehicles were not much loved when fresh, but they are worth a lot on the used market. Today, buyers should expect to pay an average of $16,824 for a good condition fourth-generation Toyota 4Runner, according to Classic. But the much pristine condition models can easily sell for as much as $30,667.
Some model years of the generation, particularly 2004 and 2005 are constantly called out for being less reliable and durable than the other years. So, depending on what you're looking for, it's easier to find something around 10,000, and, if you’re lucky, possibly under the $9,000 price point.
Which Fourth-Gen Toyota 4Runner Model To Choose
As we mentioned earlier, the fourth-generation 4Runner came in 3 trim levels: the SR5, the Sport Edition, and the Limited. The SR5 was the base model that came with a blander appearance and a decent amount of equipment. Despite being the entry-level 4Runner, the SR5 outsold the rest. The mid-level Sport Edition added tubular roof rails, side steps, a smoked chrome grille, and more. The high-end Limited trim was the real deal. It packed all the good 4Runner features, including dual-zone climate control, heated leather seats, and 18-inch 6-spoke wheels, among others.
Other rare breeds that rolled out of the line were the Urban Runner (available in 2008 and 2009) and the Trail Edition (Exclusively available in 2009) models. The former came as more of an appearance package that added special Alcantara seats and unique badges. The latter was essentially an FJ Cruiser soul in a 4Runner body. The model you choose will depend on the features you’re looking for. However, you may need a deeper pocket for a fully-equipped 4Runner. We recommend the Sport Edition and the Limited if you desire more features.
V6 Vs V8: Which Engine Powers The Fourth-Gen Toyota 4Runner Better?
For many years, there’s been a debate about which engine is the best choice for the 4Runner. If you find yourself in this dilemma, then you’ll be glad to know that both engines work great. But these engines have their strong and weak points. The V6 engine gives you 245 hp and 283 lb.-ft of twist. Also found in the Tacoma and FJ Cruiser, the V6 is the most fuel-efficient powertrain.
One thing that stands out about this generation is that it is the only one to offer a V8 engine (the same engine that powers the Tundra), which achieved an output of 270 hp and 330 lb.-ft. Also, it's much quieter and smoother, but also thirstier.
Keep in mind that the V8-powered 4Runner examples are somewhat rare compared to the V6 counterparts. This is because the high gas prices pushed buyers to seek out the more economic V6s.
Common Problems With The Fourth-Gen Toyota 4Runner
The most common problem with the fourth-generation 4Runner is rust. This problem usually develops at around 154,000 miles. It's for this reason that the 2004 and 2005 model years are said to be the worst years of the fourth-generation line. We recommend skipping these years altogether if you can. This doesn’t mean they are totally bad, just others are better.
Another problem is a sticky, melted, or cracked dashboard, which develops due to excessive exposure to the sun, resulting in the formation of a sticky substance across the exposed area of the dash.
What Is The Best Year Of The Fourth-Gen Toyota 4Runner To Buy?
There are so many factors that factor into what the ‘ideal’ model year would be in the used market, including things like the previous ownership, location, and more. Generally, all fourth-Gen models are competent and reliable. We think the V8 facelift models from 2006 are better.
But, at the end of the day, this depends on your preferences. Be sure to buy a rust-free 4Runner, and have the VIN checked to verify the vehicle’s accident history. We recommend that you buy the coolest and most good condition model that you can afford.