Toyota 4Runner History: Six Generations Of The Practical, Rugged & Capable SUV

Renowned for its durability, off-road prowess, and versatility, the Toyota 4Runner has carved out a loyal following since its inception. It was first launched in 1983 and over three million units of the Toyota 4Runner have been sold since then. 

The 4Runner name was derived from its capable 4WD system and its ability to run on all kinds of terrain — characteristics that are common across all of its generations. It started off as a compact SUV but was later positioned as a mid-size SUV. In this Dubicars Car Spotlight article, we take a closer look at the history, generations, and models of the Toyota 4Runner.

Toyota introduced the Land Cruiser in 1951 and it went on to become an automotive icon. Read all about the history and generations of the Toyota Land Cruiser here. This was the SUV that set the ball rolling for Toyota’s illustrious line-up of SUVs. While Toyota launched new generations of the Land Cruiser, there wasn’t another new Toyota SUV until the arrival of the 4Runner in 1983.

The Toyota Hilux was launched in 1968 and 1983 saw the launch of the fourth generation of the revered pickup truck. Toyota sought to take advantage of the growing demand for SUVs globally by launching a new SUV based on the new Toyota Hilux. Named the 4Runner, it combined the utility of a truck with the comfort and amenities of a passenger vehicle. 

In 1981, American motorhome and RV manufacturer Winnebago started producing the Toyota Trekker. It was in essence a modified second-generation Toyota Hilux. The brand took a standard Hilux pickup and replaced the cargo bed at the rear with a pair of seats and a fibre roof.

This conversion created an SUV that was a direct competitor to the likes of the Ford Bronco. It was powered by a 2.4-litre inline-4 petrol engine. The Toyota Trekker became the unofficial predecessor to the Toyota 4Runner.

The first-generation Toyota 4Runner, introduced in 1983, was essentially a modified Hilux with a fiberglass shell over the bed and an integrated rear seat. Codenamed N60, this model featured a simplistic yet functional design and showcased ruggedness that would become a hallmark of the 4Runner. 

It was offered with a range of engines. Inline-4 petrol engines ranged between 2.0-litres and 2.4-litres in capacity. In addition, it also featured a 3.0-litre V6 engine. Diesel models were powered by a 2.4-litre inline-4 unit available in both turbocharged and NA guises. The removable rear canopy allowed for an open-air driving experience, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.

The second-generation 4Runner, introduced in 1989, marked a significant shift towards a more refined SUV. The N120/N130 series featured a full steel body, eliminating the removable fibre canopy of its predecessor. This generation offered improved safety and comfort, with a more spacious interior. 

The petrol engines of the previous generation were retained while newer and more powerful diesel engines were added to the lineup owing to their popularity. The suspension system was also upgraded, enhancing both ride quality and off-road capability. This generation solidified the 4Runner’s reputation as a versatile and reliable SUV.

In 1995, the third-generation 4Runner (N180) brought further advancements in performance and comfort. This model featured a more aerodynamic design and a completely redesigned chassis. This is the generation where the Toyota 4Runner transitioned from a compact SUV to a mid-size SUV. 

It featured new engine options too, with a 2.7-litre inline-4 replacing the old 2.4-litre unit and a 3.4-litre V6 replacing the old 3.0-litre V6. A 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic gearbox handled transmission duties. It featured an advanced 4WD system and struck a balance between rugged off-road capability and refined on-road manners.

The fourth-generation 4Runner, launched in 2002, represented a major leap forward in terms of technology and performance. This generation was built on a new platform shared with the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, ending its decades-long link with the Toyota Hilux Platform. 

Toyota’s well-known 1GR-FE 4.0-litre V6 engine was added to the lineup of engine options. However, the star of its engine lineup was the coveted 4.7-litre V8. The interior was more luxurious, with high-quality materials and a range of modern conveniences. For the first time in its history, the Toyota 4Runner did not feature a manual gearbox and it received a full-time 4WD system.

In 2009, the fifth-generation 4Runner (N280) debuted with a bold, aggressive design and a focus on off-road capability. This model retained the rugged body-on-frame construction, and its size had increased significantly. One could choose between a 2.7-litre inline-4 and a 4.0-litre V6 engine. This is the first generation of the Toyota 4Runner without a diesel engine option.

All models of this generation are available with Toyota’s acclaimed A-TRAC active traction control system. Throughout the lifetime of this generation, Toyota constantly made changes and improvements to the SUV.  

In April 2024, Toyota revealed the all-new 4Runner. While sales are yet to begin, the new 4Runner has already attracted a lot of attention. It is built on the GA-F platform that underpins the flagship Land Cruiser 300 and even the recently launched all-new Toyota Prado. 

A 2.4-litre inline-4 turbo-petrol powers the 4Runner for the first time in its history. Toyota has also revealed a hybrid version of the same powertrain. With the Tarilhunter variant, Toyota will cater specifically to off-road enthusiasts as it features 33-inch off-road tyres, long travel suspension, a roof rack, skid plates, and more. 

In the UAE, the Toyota 4Runner has enjoyed significant popularity, especially among off-road enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Owing to their robust performance, reliability, and modern features, the fourth and fifth generations of the SUV are popular. A few classic car enthusiasts also favour the first and second generations. 

Prices for a new Toyota 4Runner for sale in the UAE range from AED 181,000 to AED 200,000. Prices for a used Toyota 4Runner for sale in the UAE range from AED 59,000 to AED 165,000 depending on the model, year of manufacture, and condition.

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The 4Runner is among the most successful models in Toyota’s history. In April 2024, Toyota revealed the sixth generation of the SUV which will replace the current generation. 

Rugged, reliable, practical, and spacious are some of the words that describe the Toyota 4Runner. Its incredible off-road performance further adds to its credentials.

The Toyota 4Runner is an incredibly durable SUV and can easily clock between 350,000km and 480,000km without needing to undergo an engine rebuild. However, to achieve these numbers, it would require regular maintenance without fail.

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