Exploring the Legacy of the Toyota 4Runner Third Generation: A Closer Look at a Classic SUV

The Toyota 4Runner has a rich history in the U.S. market, with the upcoming 2025 model generating excitement among enthusiasts. Reflecting on the third generation of the 4Runner reveals its enduring appeal in the realm of SUVs.

Debuting in 1984 alongside the iconic Jeep Cherokee, the Toyota 4Runner evolved with each generation. The third iteration, launched in 1996, distinguished itself through enhanced size, improved interior space, and advanced suspension for a smoother ride both on and off-road.

In 1999, a mid-cycle refresh added aesthetic updates and new technological features to the 4Runner, attracting a wider audience beyond traditional off-road enthusiasts.

Offering a choice of a 2.7-liter four-cylinder or a 3.4-liter V6 engine, the third-gen 4Runner catered to diverse preferences with manual and automatic transmission options.

While the compact SUV market was crowded in the late ’90s, the 4Runner stood out as a versatile daily driver, appealing to various demographics from soccer moms to executives seeking comfort and reliability.

Today, well-preserved third-gen 4Runners are sought after, with low-mileage, unmodified examples commanding premium prices due to their rarity and enduring performance.

During the 1996-2002 period, the 4Runner faced competition from Nissan with the Pathfinder and Infiniti with the QX4, offering consumers a range of options in the SUV segment.

Notable alternatives to the 4Runner included the rugged Jeep Wrangler, luxurious Land Cruiser, and the legendary Mitsubishi Montero, each bringing distinct features and capabilities to the market.

Despite the evolution of SUVs over the years, the legacy of the third-gen Toyota 4Runner endures as a symbol of reliability, versatility, and off-road prowess in the automotive industry.