2017 Toyota 4Runner Review
Pros & Cons
- Serious off-road capability few other competitors can match
- Variety of configurations to suit many buyers and price points
- Versatile cargo area, especially with optional slide out
- Choppy ride quality compared to more modern crossovers
- Standard V6 is not particularly fuel-efficient
- Tall step-in height makes for ungraceful entry and exit
Other years
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Which 4Runner does Edmunds recommend?
If you're shopping 2017 4Runners, off-road capability is likely a priority or you would be (or should be) shopping station wagons or crossovers. In light of that, the sweet spot in the 4Runner lineup is the TRD Off-Road Premium. It's the most affordable way to gain access to a locking rear differential and the KDSS suspension option, which enhances its off-road chops while maintaining manners on the road. Its "Premium" billing, however, adds creature comforts such as heated front seats with easy-clean premium vinyl upholstery, heated power outside mirrors and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Edmunds' Expert Review
Driving
3.5The 2017 4Runner off-road nature dominates the way it performs. Traditional body-on-frame construction gives it ruggedness and clearance but adds weight that results in modest cornering, braking and acceleration limits. The off-road performance that 4Runner buyers seek is excellent.
Comfort
3.0The Toyota 4Runner provided a reasonable mix of comfort that isn't out of line with its overall mission or its truck-based roots. Not as comfy as the typical crossover, but no one looking for this kind of rugged capability should be surprised by that.
Interior
3.5We like the nicely laid-out dash and instrument panel. The large cargo hold is quite functional, and the seating area is sufficiently roomy. Easy to climb in and out if you can deal with the step-up height.
Utility
4.0Great cargo area versatility especially with the optional sliding cargo tray, plus a variety of storage options in the cabin.
Scorecard
| Overall | 3.5 / 5 |
| Driving | 3.5 |
| Comfort | 3.0 |
| Interior | 3.5 |
| Utility | 4.0 |
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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2017 Toyota 4Runner.
Most helpful consumer reviews
Angie NC,11/13/2017
Limited 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
When shopping for a new SUV I drove several makes and models. Toyota 4 Runner wasn't on my list due to the reviews from Car and Driver and other sites, however my husband (a truck guy) convinced me to test drive the 4 Runner. It wasn't my favorite while test driving but I went with my husbands recommendation and purchased the 4 Runner. After driving the 4 Runner Limited 4wd I love, love , love it. The only complaint is the gas mileage which was a shock for me coming from a Lexus GS 350. I like the way it drives, It feels solid and well built which makes me feel safe. I'm adjusting to the ride but its not bad considering this is a TRUE SUV not a crossover. Would I purchase again? ABSOLUTELY I'm glad I didn't listen to the reviews and took a chance on this true SUV I'm very happy with my purchase. If I had to give a negative it would definitely be the gas mileage.
4RunnerRalph,09/14/2017
Limited 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
Purchased new Gray Metallic w/Redwood seats 2017 4Runner Limited 4X4 and loving it! Rides very comfortable I'd say even fun to drive. Feels sturdy when going over bumps with no rattling. The Limited edition has everything you could want minus the blind spot monitoring which Toyota should include however you do get an excellent field of vision as you sit high like in a truck. I got the optional 3rd row seat since we travel alot with friends and we all pile in but I will say smaller people will fit best back there and only for shorter trips as there's not much leg room. 2nd row seats are great, comfy and roomy and even recline. The V6/270 HP engine is not what I would describe as "quick" but you can definitely feel the torque of power there when you need to speed up. It's a beautiful vehicle inside and out and well thought out and made and no wonder it hasn't changed much year after year. The Entune Premium JBL infotainment system you will either love or hate and the radio screen is smaller on 4Runners than on the Highlander or even Tacoma Limited editions and I'd like to see Toyota change that but over-all I'm happy with the phone pairing and use as well as the Navigation features and voice command features of Entune. The AC system is powerful and cold air feels great here in Central Texas. I'm still in the break-in period so I have not towed anything yet or been off-roading but those things are legendary for Toyota and the 4Runner so I don't expect any surprises there. If you're considering which 4Runner model to get and you do not plan on doing any serious off-roading I'd go with the Limited edition since it has all the creature comforts at the top of the line but is still capable enough to give you 4X4 when you need it. All-in all I'm very happy with my purchase and would do it again exactly the same if given a choice. I also have a Tundra and the wife drives an Avalon and we got both through Toyota Financial at zero percent interest but I've never seen Toyota offer the 4Runner at zero so I ended up going with a local credit union at 3.45 percent for 72 months.
Bill,02/13/2017
TRD OFF-ROAD Premium 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
Our Offroad Premium with KDSS is just spectacular. We opted for sunroof delete for increased headroom. No typical sway while driving. The 4Runner is basic compared to many other offerings. It's also rated for well above average reliability and resale value. Ride and comfort are great. Visibility is above average for any vehicle in this class/size. Blind Spot monitoring is not available. Problem solved with $5 blind spot stick on mirrors. Immediately after purchase our area had a decent snow storm. 4Runner handled the snow with ease. It could either use more power or lose 500lbs. We bought the 4Runner for it's top rated reliability and dead simple drivetrain. I can deal with the lack of power.
J8r78e,02/19/2017
Limited 4dr SUV 4WD (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
Thank goodness there is a mid size SUV that is not on a car chassis "SUV". One that rides and handles much like a sports vehicle rather than the mushy sickening feel of most of the competition. The 2017 Limited 4Runner is the best vehicle I've owned, including Volvo, Jeep, Ford, and others..... Toyota, keep this product in the model line up!
Safety
Our experts like the 4Runner models:
- Downhill Assist Control
- Improves directional control during descent on steep or slippery surfaces.
- Brake Assist
- Applies increased brake pressure when it detects a panic braking situation.
- Smart Stop Technology
- Reduces engine power when the the brake and gas pedals are applied simultaneously.
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