The Toyota 4Runner has been available in the USA since the mid-1980s and will enter its sixth generation in 2024 as a 2025 model year SUV. With the all-new 4Runner introduced in 2025, we thought now would be a good time to look back at one of the previous generations that helped establish the 4Runner name in the United States.
Previous 4Runner variants still hold a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts, especially off-road, as their rugged construction, reliability and classic design make a combination that’s hard to beat. The first 4Runner debuted in 1984 (the same year as the SUV segment-defining Jeep Cherokee); The second generation came onto the market in the 1990 model year. The third-generation 4Runner we’re focusing on today debuted in 1996 and brought numerous cosmetic and mechanical updates to the SUV, making the model a “must-have” model in the 4Runner’s long and storied history.
Toyota increased the overall size of the 4Runner for the third generation, making it longer overall and giving it a longer wheelbase. The changes brought more interior space and better cargo capacity, and the new suspension tuning provided a smoother ride and off-road stability. The third-generation 4Runners were also the first to feature an electronically locking rear differential, although Toyota had already offered it in the Land Cruiser for years at that point.
The 4Runner received a mid-cycle refresh in 1999 that included a new front design with revised bumper and headlights, as well as running boards and other exterior details for some trims. There were more significant changes inside, where Toyota reconfigured the control block and moved most of it to the center of the dashboard. The automaker also introduced a new transfer case for four-wheel drive models that enabled four-wheel drive in certain situations.
With the 2025 4Runner just around the corner, we’re taking a closer look at the desirable third-generation version.
Third-generation 4Runner powertrains
Toyota offered diesel options in Japan, but Americans had a choice between a 2.7-liter four-cylinder and a 3.4-liter V6. Codenamed 3RZ-FE, the four-cylinder made 150 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque when new. The 5VZ-FE V6 produced 183 horsepower and 217 pound-feet of torque, slightly less than the same engine then available in the Tacoma pickup. Toyota offered a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic, but the manual option was no longer offered after the 2000 model year. Toyota later offered a supercharger kit for the 3.4L V6 through its factory TRD accessories arm.
Why is the third-generation 4Runner special?
Previous 4Runner models attracted the off-road crowd, but it had not yet caught on as an everyday or family vehicle. The third-generation SUV was one of the earliest “crossover” events for the 4Runner, as everyone from soccer moms to executives looking for a large, comfortable vehicle loved its friendly design and spacious interior space . This shift resulted in many 4Runners being driven into the ground in family transportation, making them harder to find in good condition today. The off-road crowd snapped up the ones that survived the Kindertransport relatively unscathed because of their performance and updated design.
These days, the third-generation 4Runner is reasonably easy to find on the used market, but the combination of high mileage, a frame prone to rusting if looked at incorrectly, and extensive off-road modifications make finding a good model a rarity. There’s no shortage of available 1996-2002 4Runners, but a quick look at Autoblog classifieds shows few with decent mileage, and prices are usually inflated. Unmodified examples with less than 100,000 miles command prices in the mid to high $20,000 range, with some even approaching $30,000. If you accept higher miles, this starting value drops significantly.
Alternatives to the third generation Toyota 4Runner
While Japanese body-on-frame off-roaders are a dying breed today, there were some solid alternatives to the third-generation 4Runner at the time. Honda and Isuzu teamed up to produce the Passport and Rodeo respectively, which offered worthy off-road capabilities. The SUVs also featured attractive ’90s styling and comfortable interiors, but some second-generation models suffered from massive frame rust problems, prompting a recall in 2010 and prompting buybacks when the problems were bad enough.
The Nissan Pathfinder received a generational update for the 1996 model year that gave it a respectable V6 engine, and later in its life it received the now familiar VQ 3.5-liter V6. Nissan’s luxury arm Infiniti also received a version of the SUV with a classier interior and more refined design. Meanwhile, Mitsubishi was also involved. The Montero, also known as the Pajero or Shogun depending on the market, brought legendary off-road capability and Dakar Rally-bred performance that made it a desirable alternative.
Finally, we can’t ignore the Toyota Land Cruiser. One of the toughest and most desirable off-roaders around, the iconic SUV features a more engaging and capable configuration than the 4Runner. These days it’s just as hard to find in decent condition, with many examples in decent condition fetching extreme prices.
Third Generation Toyota 4Runner Frequently Asked Questions
What model years were included in the third generation?
Toyota sold the third generation 4Runner for the 1996 to 2002 model years.
How long do third generation 4Runners last?
Part of the 4Runner’s appeal is its longevity, and the third-generation models can easily reach 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Many owners claim to have reached 300,000 miles with little effort, although rust and cosmetic issues are a major problem with older examples.
Is the third-generation 4Runner worth the price?
Third-generation buyers are looking for a certain feel and attitude, which for many buyers is enough to justify paying the extra price. If you’re looking for a modern off-road SUV with solid comfort, newer 4Runners or even a Land Cruiser could be a good alternative.
How difficult is it to modify the third generation 4Runner?
The simplicity of older vehicles makes them attractive to modify and upgrade. However, it is important to ensure that basic maintenance and care measures are taken first. However, most parts and mods are easy to find and are relatively affordable due to their abundance compared to parts for other models.