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2018 Toyota 4Runner

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Expert Rating
Unavailable

Our expert ratings are based on seven comprehensive criteria: quality, safety, comfort, performance, fuel economy, reliability history and value.

You can interpret our ratings in the following way:

: Outstanding vehicle. Only the most exceptional vehicles achieve this rating.

: Very Good vehicle. Very good and close to being the best vehicle in its class.

: Good vehicle. Decent, but not quite the best. Often affordable, but lacking key features found in vehicles of the same class.

: Below average vehicle. Not recommended, and lacking attributes a car buyer would come to expect for the price.

: Poor vehicle. Simply does not deserve to be on the road.

Select a Trim
Select a Trim
2018 SR5 4dr 4x2
most popular
Price:   -  From $34,810
2018 SR5 Premium 4dr 4x2 Price:   -  From $36,640
2018 SR5 4dr 4x4 Price:   -  From $36,685
2018 TRD Off Road 4dr 4x4 Price:   -  From $37,985
2018 SR5 Premium 4dr 4x4 Price:   -  From $38,515
2018 TRD Off Road Premium 4dr 4x4 Price:   -  From $39,895
2018 TRD Pro 4dr 4x4 Price:   -  From $43,075
2018 Limited 4dr 4x2 Price:   -  From $43,125
2018 Limited 4dr 4x4 Price:   -  From $45,160

Overview

Unlike a lot of modern crossovers and SUVs, the Toyota 4Runner is part of a dying breed of vehicles that can go anywhere. With its body-on-frame construction, the 4Runner shares many of the same features, construction, and driving characteristics of a pickup truck, making it a force to be reckoned with when there's snow on the ground or a steep hill to climb. Regardless of what's in the SUV's way, the 2018 Toyota 4Runner is one of the few vehicles on the road that can get through a serious challenge.

What's New for 2018

Not much has changed for the 2018 4Runner. There are two new packages for the old-school SUV: the Wilderness Package and the TRD Enhancement Package.

The Wilderness Package, which adds roof rack crossbars, all-weather floor liners, and a cargo tray, is available on all of the 4Runner trims, except for the range-topping Limited. The TRD Enhancement Package, which is only available on off-road-focused TRD trims, brings 17-inch TRD matte gray alloy wheels and a TRD-branded aluminum front skid plate – to keep all of the SUV's parts safe when off-roading.

Lastly, two new colors have been added to the lineup: Cavalry Blue and Midnight Black Metallic. While not a new color, Super White is now available on the entire 4Runner lineup, instead of being a bespoke color for the TRD Pro trims.

Toyota 4Runner

Choosing Your Toyota 4Runner

The 4Runner has a lot to offer those that are willing to trade some comfort for off-roading capability. Power for the SUV comes from a 4.0-liter V6 engine that produces 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. The engine is paired to a five-speed automatic transmission that has a sequential shift mode. All 4Runner trims, when properly equipped, are rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds.

As an off-roading-friendly SUV, the 4Runner comes with a lot of performance-oriented goodies. Two-wheel-drive models feature an automatic limited-slip differential function on the traction control (TRAC) system. The function allows some wheel slippage to let the SUV dig out of tricky situations. Getting the available part-time four-wheel-drive system also adds Active Traction Control (A-TRAC) and improves the SUV's off-roading prowess thanks to a two-speed transfer case with low-range.

The range-topping 4Runner Limited trim takes off-roading to a new level thanks to a full-time four-wheel-drive system that utilizes a Torsen center differential that has a locking feature that drivers can access via a center console-mounted switch. For most driving situations, the system splits the engine's power 40:60, front to back. The system, though, is smart and adapts to changing conditions. If the system senses that the SUV's front wheels are slipping in a turn, it sends more power to the back, going with a 30:70 split. If the rear wheels are slipping in a corner, the differential sends more power to the front (53:47 split).

Toyota 4Runner

SR5

The SR5 trim is the most affordable way to get into a 4Runner. The two-wheel-drive variant starts at $35,250 (all prices include the $995 destination charge), while adding four-wheel drive is an additional $1,530. The SR5 comes with smoked trim headlights, LED taillights with a smoked sport trim, fog lights, heated exterior mirrors, 17-inch six-spoke alloy wheels, and front and rear mudguards on the outside as standard.

On the inside, the SUV features: a 6.1-inch high-resolution touch-screen display with Toyota's Entune infotainment system and connected navigation, an eight-speaker audio system, Bluetooth, Siri Eyes Free, HD Radio, SiriusXM satellite radio, a rearview camera, an eight-way power driver's seat, a four-way front passenger seat, remote keyless entry, a rear liftgate window (a 4Runner hallmark), and five 12-volt auxiliary power outlets.

Running boards are a $190 option, while the $650 "Fabric-trimmed 50/50 split fold-flat third-row seat and sliding second row with passenger-side one-touch access to third-row seat with options package" (yes, that's its full name) adds integrated navigation and fabric-trimmed 50/50 fold-flat third row seats.

Toyota 4Runner

SR5 Premium

The SR5 Premium starts at $38,360 and adds some creature comforts over the base model. Although the SR5 Premium adds puddle lights to the side mirrors and a rear spoiler to the exterior, the majority of additions take place on the inside and include the optional extras from the SR5 as standard. There are six available packages for the Premium trim, including three separate power tilt/slide moonroof options and two different split fold-flat third-row seat and sliding second row options.

Toyota 4Runner

TRD Off-Road

The TRD Off-Road trim costs $38,375 and adds a few sportier touches, including a hood scoop, silver-painted roof rails with black endcaps, “TRD Off-Road” external hard badges, and 17-inch seven-spoke alloy wheels. On the inside, the trim adds: an overhead console with Multi-terrain Select, A-TRAC, VSC cutoff, a locking rear differential and Crawl Control switches, a center-console storage compartment in a carbon-fiber look, a TRD shift knob, and TRD Off-Road floor mats. A Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System with options package ($1,595) adds its namesake suspension system and an Entune audio system with integrated navigation and app suite.

Toyota 4Runner

TRD Off-Road Premium

The next step up is the TRD Off-Road Premium trim that has a starting price tag of $39,740. The TRD Off-Road Premium combines all the features of the TRD Off-Road and the SR5 Premium. Additional features include: “TRD” red lettering on driver and front passenger headrests, a HomeLink universal transceiver, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. The trim offers a lot of the same options as the SR5 trim, but adds two Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System packages. The first one costs $1,000 and only adds the namesake suspension system, while the other runs $1,850 and also adds a power tilt/slide moonroof with a sunshade.

Toyota 4Runner

TRD Pro

The TRD Pro trim is the range-topping TRD model that costs $43,670. The TRD Pro adds auto on/off headlights, black exterior accents, a bespoke “TOYOTA” front grille, black “TRD PRO” external hard badges, 17-inch matte-black TRD alloy wheels, and a TRD-stamped aluminum front skid plate. There are two available packages: running boards ($345) and a sliding rear cargo deck with an under-floor storage compartment ($350).

Toyota 4Runner

Limited

The top-of-the-line Limited starts at $44,480. The Limited trim adds a variety of luxury features over the performance-oriented TRD Pro trim. Exterior features on the Limited include: chrome door handles with a touch-sensor lock/unlock feature, a power tilt/slide moonroof with sunshade, and 20-inch split six-spoke alloy wheels. On the inside, the SUV comes with: dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium JBL audio system with 15 speakers, perforated leather-trimmed heated and ventilated front seats, Smart Key System with push button start and remote illuminated entry, and front and rear parking assist sonar. The Limited can be equipped with a 50/50 split fold-flat third-row seat and sliding second row for $365.

CarsDirect Tip

With the 4Runner, it's important to accept the fact that it's a little more rugged and a little rougher around the edges than the majority of other SUVS on the road. The TRD Off-Road Premium trim strikes the right balance of being able to tackle any type of terrain, while being enjoyable for everyday use. While expensive, the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System is a must-have for enthusiasts that want excellent off-roading characteristics.

Get your price on the Toyota 4Runner »

author image
Automotive Editor
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Expert Review

Expert Rating
Unavailable

Our expert ratings are based on seven comprehensive criteria: quality, safety, comfort, performance, fuel economy, reliability history and value.

You can interpret our ratings in the following way:

: Outstanding vehicle. Only the most exceptional vehicles achieve this rating.

: Very Good vehicle. Very good and close to being the best vehicle in its class.

: Good vehicle. Decent, but not quite the best. Often affordable, but lacking key features found in vehicles of the same class.

: Below average vehicle. Not recommended, and lacking attributes a car buyer would come to expect for the price.

: Poor vehicle. Simply does not deserve to be on the road.

author image
Contributing Writer

Looking past the 2018 Toyota 4Runner's choppy ride, mediocre handling, poor fuel economy, and minimal safety features, you'll find that behind its rugged style lurks exceptional off-road prowess, sophisticated suspension options, and slick touches like a power rear window and an available sliding rear cargo deck.

Best Value

2018 Toyota 4Runner starts at $35,400 for a rear-wheel-drive SR5 (which you don't want) and climbs to over $48,000 for an all-wheel-drive Limited equipped with a third row and optional paint. A single engine/transmission is offered, while rear-wheel-drive is standard on SR5 and Limited models. SR5 4x4 models feature a part-time four-wheel-drive system with active traction control, while a locking rear differential and multi-terrain select and crawl control are added to TRD models. TRD Pro models receive an off-road capable Bilstein-developed system, while the Limited rounds out the offerings with full-time four-wheel drive, active traction control, and a lockable Torsen limited-slip center differential.

The usual power features are present, along with seventeen-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, leather-trimmed steering wheel, power liftgate window, Bluetooth, satellite radio, Toyota's app suite with navigation, and a rear view camera. But unlike most Toyotas, advanced safety systems like blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning are not offered.

With the 4Runner's off-road prowess in mind, we'd skip the SR5 trim and head for the TRD Off-Road model that adds the upgraded 4WD system along with unique seventeen-inch alloy wheels and all-terrain tires, color-keyed bumpers and exterior trim bits, heated outside mirrors, fog lights, and overfenders. It also allows access to the 4Runner's Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System that uses hydraulics to adjust the front and rear sway bars – loosening them for extended wheel travel in off-road conditions and tightening them for better control on-road.

Here's how we'd build it

  • Model: 2018 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road
  • Engine: 4.0-liter V6
  • Output: 270 hp / 278 lb-ft
  • Transmission: Five-speed automatic
  • Drivetrain: Four-wheel-drive
  • MPG: 17 City / 21 Hwy
  • Options: Kinetic Dynamic Suspension system ($1,750)
  • Base Price:$38,030 (including a $995 destination charge)
  • Best Value Price:$39,780

Performance

Toyota 4Runner

The real deal with a 5,000-pound towing capacity, 9.6 inches of ground clearance, 33-degree approach, and 26-degree departure angles; a two-speed transfer case allows the 4Runner to handle challenging terrain, while the TRD Off-Road and Pro's Crawl Control automatically applies the brakes at each corner, helping it creep over obstacles. The V6 provides decent – if unexceptional – acceleration, while the five-speed automatic is quick to respond to driver input, even on steep grades with a full load of passengers and cargo.

But the goodness ends when the pavement begins as the soft ride – courtesy of tall tires – can turn raucous over rolling pavement, advanced driver safety assists aren't offered, and the steering is numb, with light on-center feel and very little feedback to the driver. Adding to the jam pile are mediocre handling and a V6 that sounds rough when pressed, and in tandem with the four-wheel-drive system and antiquated five-speed auto, only manages an EPA-estimated 17 miles per gallon in the city, 20 on the highway, and 18 combined.

Style

Aggressive sheetmetal punctuated by an underbite-inspired front fascia is wrapped around an interior with comfortable first and second row seats and an above average 47.2 cu ft of cargo room. Controls and knobs are well laid out and intuitive, an optional pull-out sliding rear cargo floor makes loading items a breeze, while a 70's-era station wagon-style power rear window aids loading and natural cabin ventilation – it's very fun to drive down the road with the back window down.

But the tall ride height means getting in and out is more difficult – especially for children - making the optional running boards almost a necessity (they also compromise ground clearance off road), while the optional third row is only suitable for small children. The shallow dash – a boon for off-road visibility – makes the interior feel claustrophobic, while the 4Runner also lacks a power tailgate option.

The Best and Worst Things

The 4Runner's rugged style matches its off-road capability and solid feel. We only wish it offered more advanced safety features and better fuel economy.

Right For? Wrong For?

Toyota 4Runner

The 4Runner is a great choice for weekend warriors looking for a more refined off-roader than the Jeep Wrangler.

A high ride height, limited safety features, and poor fuel economy spell doom for families looking for an around-town commuter.

The Bottom Line

Despite limited safety features and poor fuel economy, the 4Runner is a solid, capable, true off-roader, and a worthwhile choice for the family that's outgrown a Jeep Wrangler but isn't willing to lose that go-anywhere character or elemental driving experience.

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Specs & Features

Highlights
Overall Crash Safety Rating
Engine - Cylinders/Horsepower/Torque
4.0L V-6 / 270 HP / 278 ft.lbs.
Transmission
5-spd sequential shift control auto w/OD
Drive Type
Rear-wheel
Fuel Economy - City/Highway/Combined
17 / 21 / 19 Mpg
Passenger Capacity
5 / 7
Bumper to Bumper Warranty
36 Months / 36,000 Miles
Mechanical Specs
Engine - Cylinders/Horsepower/Torque
4.0L V-6 / 270 HP / 278 ft.lbs.
Drive Type
Rear-wheel
Fuel Economy - City/Hwy/Combined
17 / 21 / 19 Mpg
Brakes
4-wheel Disc
Front Suspension
Double Wishbone
Rear Suspension
Rigid Axle Multi-link
Spare Tire And Wheel
Full-size Steel
Fuel Tank
23.0 Gal.
Recommended Fuel Type
Regular Unleaded
Average Cost To Fill Tank
$88
Dimensions & Capabilities
Maximum Cargo Volume
89.7 Cu.ft. / 88.8 Cu.ft.
Passenger Volume
97 Cu.ft. / 128 Cu.ft.
Exterior Length
190.2 "
Exterior Width
75.8 "
Exterior Height
71.5 "
Front Headroom
39.3 "
Rear Headroom
38.6 "
Front Legroom
41.7 "
Rear Legroom
32.9 "
Front Shoulder Room
57.8 "
Rear Shoulder Room
57.8 "
Front Hip Room
Rear Hip Room
Curb Weight
4,400 Lbs.
Wheel Base
110 "
Turning Radius
18.7 '
Exterior Features
Door Count
4 Doors
Wheels
17.0 " Silver Aluminum / 17.0 " Painted Trd Forged Aluminum / 20.0 " Black Aluminum
Paint
Clearcoat Monotone / Clearcoat Monotone With Stripe / Clearcoat Monotone With Badging
Exterior Mirrors
Dual Power Remote Heated
Bumpers
Body-colored With 1 Front Tow Hook(s)
Grille Moldings
With Body-colored Bar / Aluminum
Rear Spoiler
Lip
Exhaust
Stainless Steel / Stainless Steel With Polished Tailpipe Finish / Stainless Steel With Chrome Tailpipe Finish
Interior Features
Seating
Passenger Capacity
5 / 7
Seat Trim
Cloth / Leather / Simulated Suede/leather
Front Seat Type
Bucket
Heated Front Seats
Driver And Front Passenger Heated-cushion, Heated-seatback
Front Driver Seat Direction Controls
(8-way Power)
Front Passenger Seat Direction Controls
4-way
Front Armrests
(8-way Power)
Rear Armrests
Center
Rear Seats
40-20-40 Split-bench
Radio & Infotainment
Radio
Siriusxm Am/fm/hd/satellite, Seek-scan
Speakers
8
Radio Steering Wheel Controls
Apple Car Play
Android Auto
Bluetooth w/ Hands-Free Connectivity
Convenience Features
Steering Wheel Type
Telescopic Tilt
Climate Control
Cruise Control
With Steering Wheel Controls
Sun Roof
Rearview Mirror
Day-night / Auto-dimming Day-night
One Touch Open Window
Front And Rear
Tinted Windows
Deep
Vanity Mirrors
Dual Illuminated
Remote Keyless Entry
Keyfob (all Doors)
Power Outlets
5
Safety Features
Overall Crash Safety Rating
Overall Front Crash Safety Rating
Overall Side Crash Safety Rating
Rollover Crash Safety Rating
Front Impact Airbags
Driver And Passenger
Driver Side Impact Airbags
Seat Mounted
Knee Airbag
Driver And Passenger
Passenger Side Impact Airbag
Seat Mounted
Rear Side Airbag
Seatbelt Pretensioners
Front
Anti-Lock Brakes
4-wheel Anti-lock Brakes (abs)
Forward Collision Warning
Blind Spot Sensor
Lane Departure Warning
Autonomous Cruise Control
Pedestrian Detection
Driver Attention Alert
Daytime Running Lights
Auto High Beams
Adaptive Headlights
Parking Sensors
Security Systems
Security System
Panic Alarm
Ignition Disable
Immobilizer
Warranty
Bumper To Bumper Months Miles
36 Months / 36,000 Miles
Major Components Months
60 Months / 60,000 Miles
Included Maintenance Months
24 Months / 25,000 Miles
Roadside Assistance Months
24 Months / Unlimited Miles
Corrosion Perforation
60 Months / Unlimited Miles
Accessories Months
36 Months / 36,000 Miles

Used 2018 Toyota 4Runner for Sale

5 vehicles found within 50 miles of your area
Toyota
SR5
Color: Black
Price

$27,999

Mileage

82,426 mi

Map location icon

Simi Valley Toyota (33 mi)

Phone: (805) 426-6600
Toyota
SR5 Premium
Color: Silver
Price

$28,999

Mileage

84,483 mi

Map location icon

LA City Cars (4 mi)

Phone: (323) 522-9200
Toyota
SR5
Color: Silver
Price

$31,381

Mileage

80,853 mi

Map location icon

Beach Cities Toyota Westminster (27 mi)

Phone: (714) 894-3322
Toyota
SR5 Premium
Color: White
Price

$31,995

Mileage

90,322 mi

Map location icon

California Car Company (28 mi)

Phone: (714) 921-1069
See All Used Car Listings

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