Key Takeaways
- While one year of the 4Runner is hard to choose over the other, each 4Runner fan most definitely has their preferred generation. Many love the 4th generation of the 4Runner for its available V8 engine.
- The 4Runner is one of the slowest depreciating vehicles in the market which means higher prices for these used vehicles but a more reliable car.
- Buying a used 4Runner can be a great decision as it holds its value incredibly well and is a reliable SUV.
What year of the used 4Runner is the best?
Most of the years of the Toyota 4Runner are quite reliable and strong SUVs. Recently the 4Runner has seen an uptick in popularity as SUVs have become more and more popular across the nation. Most often the choice in which 4Runner you want comes down to pricing, preference, and if you absolutely want the latest and greatest. Currently there have only been five generations of the Toyota 4Runner and it is sorely in need of an update to compete with the incredibly popular Ford Bronco at the moment, which is more modern, and has a nicer interior for the time being. The third generation of 4Runners began in 1996 and lasted until 2002 in the USA. This generation featured a 2.7 L I4 as the base engine, and had 150 horsepower. Some models feature a 3.4 liter V6 engine that got up to 183 horsepower. This generation definitely has 90s flair and design, and has become a desired model year for the 4Runner for its looks and spacious interior.
The fourth generation of the 4Runner ran from 2003 until 2009 in the United States, and introduced a significant power increase over the previous generation. The base engine became a 4.0 liter V6 that made for 245 horsepower, and a 4.7 liter V8 engine was also available that made for 235 horsepower to 268 horsepower after 2004. This generation has the early 2000s darker bottom body panels that look rubberized, and lighter upper body panels. This model year is an incredibly good off-roader as it has a body on frame design and a solid rear axle, however it is a little less than comfortable on the road when compared to other vehicles from the same model year.
The fifth generation of the 4Runner is the current generation, and features the most modern creature comforts available on a 4Runner. It started in 2010, and only has a V6 4.0 Liter engine that makes for various horsepower ratings depending on the year. Although the 4Runner has many haters as the vehicle has yet to be updated, the vehicle still features what all old-school SUV drivers wanted, truck capability with a closed and spacious interior. The current SUV is very customizable and rugged. This will most likely have the widest available models as it has been around for so long.
Why are used 4Runners so expensive?
Used 4Runners are so expensive because their depreciation rate is one of the lowest in the world. The 4Runner has an incredibly loyal following and is a well respected vehicle. In 5 years a brand new 4Runner will most likely only depreciate 20% - 35% while the average vehicle will have depreciated by 60% in 5 years. The 4Runner is one of the top ten lowest depreciating vehicles out on the market. If you are looking to “invest” in a vehicle, the 4Runner is one of the few you can reliably resale for remarkably high prices.
Does it make sense to buy a used 4Runner?
Yes it does make sense to buy a used 4Runner. The vehicle is incredibly reliable and has better than average reliability. Beyond that as mentioned above the 4Runner is one of the slowest depreciating vehicles on the market. Which means while the 4Runner might cost a pretty penny for a used model, if its demand holds you may be able to turn around and sell the 4Runner for near the price you bought it.