2008 Toyota 4Runner [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 40 4Runner reviews and test drives.
Toyota 4Runner - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Toyota 4Runner ranks 7 out of 26 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 40 published reviews and test drives of the Toyota 4Runner, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 4Runner delivers excellent reliability, a car-like ride and impressive off-road prowess. Consequently, it ranks in the top half of its class and among other off-road SUVs.
The 2008 Toyota 4Runner's versatility for on-road or off-road driving will satisfy prospective buyers. Though it features limited cabin space and poor fuel economy, the 4Runner still manages to rank well within its large class. Introduced in 2003, the 4Runner's current model represents its fourth generation. After a 2005 drivetrain update and a 2006 facelift, the 2008 4Runner remains largely unchanged. The Washington Post says, "The 4Runner is excellent. But the mid-size SUV market is crowded with worthy competitors. This is a good buy -- without added premiums."
The Toyota 4Runner has three available trims: the base SR5, the Sport Edition, and the top-of-the-line Limited. All trims are also available with four-wheel drive.
- "The perfect combination of ruggedness, refinement, and quality." -- Automobile Magazine
- "Hey, the Lexus is wonderful, but for the price, the 4Runner remains a useful and powerful SUV with a good deal of interior comfort and convenience." -- Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
- "With a solid and remarkably quiet ride for a truck, the new 4Runner is a tough new competitor for the best selling midsize SUV -- the Ford Explorer." -- Newsday
4Runner Performance - 8.0 (Very Good)
The 4Runner's smooth ride quality both on- and off-road in the two- and four-wheel-drive versions is one of its strongest traits. Consequently, its performance ranks in the top half of the class. "They felt smooth and powerful on both pavement and dirt tracks," says AutoWeek says of the 4x2 and 4x4 configurations. Continue with our full Performance Review to learn why test drivers are so impressed with the 4Runner's off-road capabilities. continue
4Runner Exterior - 7.1 (Good)
The 4Runner's rugged exterior styling is acceptable compared to its peers, but certain elements are over-the-top for an SUV, resulting in a ranking in the bottom half of the class. Still, U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman describes it as "Hot" and adds: "Toyota has toned down the bulging fenders and exaggerated musculature of the prior 4Runner in favor of a leaner, boxier look. Think gymnast instead of bodybuilder." Continue with our full Exterior Review to learn about the 4Runner's unique exterior features -- including water-repellant glass and a power-sliding rear window -- or check out our Toyota 4Runner Photo Gallery to see it for yourself. continue
4Runner Interior - 7.3 (Good)
The 2008 Toyota 4Runner's interior is comfortable and quiet with good build quality, but falls in the middle of its class due to limited utility. "The 4Runner's interior has no surprises -- good or bad. It is, mostly, well designed ergonomically, as are most Toyota vehicles," says Newsday. Continue with our Interior Review to learn why reviewers are disappointed in the rear cargo area, or check out our Toyota 4Runner Photo Gallery. continue
4Runner Safety - 7.9 (Good)
The 4Runner features a long list of driver aids and is backed by good government crash test ratings. Automobile Magazine says, "Toyota has set the 4Runner apart from the rest of the pack with its safety features." Continue with our full Safety Review to learn about the 4Runner's optional safety equipment, including a rear backup camera. continue
4Runner Reliability - 9.0 (Excellent)
The 2008 Toyota 4Runner reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 4Runner comes with Toyota's basic 36-month/36,000-mile warranty. Continue with our full Reliability Review to learn about Toyota's solid reputation. continue
