The 4L-V6 delivers good acceleration but goes about its job noisily. The engine is carefully matched to the smooth, responsive automatic transmission. Impressive ride and handling for a true off-road SUV. Light, precise steering. Though hard to modulate, braking is strong. Big, clear gauges are housed in a blocky dashboard that contains too many buttons for the climate control system. Very large central console. Comfortable seats and a good use of cabin space. Attractive cabin materials.

A 4L V6 hooked up to a five-speed automatic transmission is the sole powertrain available. Power reaches all wheels via a part-time four-wheel drive system or an optional full-time four-wheel drive powertrain. The 4Runner is the reference point for four-wheel drive off-road SUVs. Properly equipped, the 4Runner can tow up to 2268 kg (5000 lbs.).

Over time, the 4Runner has morphed from a reasonably-priced vehicle to an expensive one. That said, the price does not hamper sales and the highest spec trims are the most popular. Demand, and chaos withing Toyota’s production system, guarantees very long delivery times. With a third-row seat, heated front seats and steering wheel, a sunroof, dual-zone climate control and blind spot monitors, the base SR5 trim is nicely equipped. Moving up to the TRD Sport deletes the third-row seat but adds larger wheels, a 360 degree camera system and some “off-road” type of exterior trim, but is very expensive for what you get. Moving up to the Limited adds the third-row seat back in again, in addition to premium audio, ventilated front seats, leather seating and parking sensors, and is good value. Compared with the SR5, the 40th Anniversary model not really worth any extra as it loses the third-row seat, but is very expensive and significantly overpriced. The TRD Sport adds strong off-road performance features at the tick of an order box. The TRD Pro adds some luxurious items like a JBL audio system, but looks extravagantly overpriced. Most 4Runners will take about a year to show up once ordered, but at about 3 years for delivery, the Trail and TRD Pro models are catalogue phantoms.

Above average reliability like other Toyota body-on-frame trucks. Previous generations of this truck were vulnerable to chassis corrosion. An oil-based anti-rust treatment is highly recommended.