Here Are All the Toyota 4Runner Generations Ranked From Best to Worst

The Toyota 4Runner is in its fifth generation, but a sixth is probably on the horizon. I will give you a tour of the most stylish contemporary 4Runner later today, but first, I will rank all five versions from best to worst. I think about every 4Runner model that has been popular since its 1980s launch.

1996-2002 4Runner (3rd Generation Runner)

The third-generation 4Runner, offered for sale in the US from 1996 to 2002, is the vehicle everyone prefers. The 4Runner had two engine options, a 150 horsepower 4-cylinder and a 183 horsepower V6.

It wasn't the fastest or most powerful SUV available. The previous car wasn't as good, but this one is sensible, reliable, and has the right amount of features. It feels like a modern car because it is sturdy and well-equipped. It is essentially the 4Runner equivalent of the Jeep Cherokee "XJ."

1990-1995 4Runner (Second Generation)

The first 4Runner had a design similar to a truck. The second generation was designed to be more practical for off-roading and everyday driving.

This design influenced the 4Runner we are familiar with today. A genuinely pathetic 115-horsepower 4-cylinder engine was standard, but a 150-horsepower V6 was an option and a popular choice. The 2-door option was rare but still offered, setting the look for the 4Runner for the next decade.

2010-present 4Runner (5th Generation Runner)

The current 4Runner is often criticized for being larger than previous models. However, it remains influential, easy to understand, and reliable, just like older versions.

There isn't any adaptive cruise control, turbocharging, high-end trim and upholstery, or automated braking. Many competitors of the 4Runner have been discontinued or changed to a more car-like design. Despite this, the 4Runner remains true to its original form, which is impressive.

2003-2009 4Runner (6th Generation 4runner)

The only 4Runner with a V8 engine is from the fourth generation. This model brought the 4Runner up to date in the early 2000s with modern technology and equipment to stay competitive.

Sadly, the design was not well-liked and sales dropped because of the recession, higher fuel costs, and the outdated look. I believe this older model of 4Runners has the potential to be popular among car enthusiasts. It is similar to the third-generation model.

1984-1989 4Runner (First Generation Runer)

I believe this is true, even though many people consider it wrong to label the first generation of something as the "worst." For the most part, the original 4Runner could have been more attractive to most people, slow, and remarkably trucklike.

Some folks who own the original 4Runners will argue that's the main point. The 4Runner is not for those who want small creature comforts. Its limited appeal would have caused it to fail in the 2000s if it had stayed basic and truck-like.