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2019 Toyota 4Runner review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
7 photos

Toyota 4Runner highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • Impressive off-road capability
  • A variety of different configurations for every task
  • Versatile cargo space, especially with the optional slide-out floor

Cons

  • The ride can be bumpy compared to newer crossovers
  • It lacks some of the latest tech features
  • The V6 engine isn't as refined as some others

Mileage (EPA estimate)

17 city, 20 highway, 18 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

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Price
Year

Embrace adventures in this capable off-road SUV

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner has a can-do attitude with a go-anywhere spirit that's ideal for adventuresome friends and families that like to get out and explore. With this off-roading SUV's rugged truck-like construction, tall ground clearance, and V6 power, you can confidently drive off the beaten path and still jump back into everyday life when it's your turn to carpool the kids. The 2019 4Runner also boasts a large cabin and cavernous cargo area with room for five or seven passengers, depending on the trim model you choose. When you choose a 4Runner, it's highly unlikely that you'll fall short on space when loading up for your next camping trip.

All Toyota 4Runner years

Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Toyota 4Runner generation from 2011 to 2024

What is new for the 2019 Toyota 4Runner?

  • The 4Runner is available in a new trim called the Limited Night Shade.
  • 4Runner trims have been upgraded with Full Roof Rack as standard equipment this year.
  • The TRD Pro trim now comes with Sunroof(s) and JBL Sound System as standard equipment.

2019 Toyota 4Runner trims

Curious how Toyota 4Runner trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

SR5

  • The SR5 comes standard with 17-inch six-spoke alloy wheels, a rearview camera with projected path, fabric-trimmed front seats, an eight-way power-adjustable driver seat with power lumbar support, an Entune Audio Plus system with a 6.1-inch high-resolution touchscreen display, and more.

  • View all Toyota 4Runner SR5s in stock

SR5 Premium

  • The SR5 Premium adds heated power outside mirrors with turn signal indicators, SofTex®-trimmed heated front seats, a four-way power-adjustable front passenger seat, an Entune Premium Audio system with navigation, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and more.

  • View all Toyota 4Runner SR5 Premiums in stock

TRD Off-Road

  • The TRD Off-Road includes 17-inch seven-spoke alloy wheels, Hill Start Assist Control, Multi-terrain Select and Crawl Control, a locking rear differential, TRD Off-Road external hard badges, and more.

  • View all Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Roads in stock

TRD Off-Road Premium

  • The TRD Off-Road Premium includes heated power outside mirrors with turn signal indicators, SofTex-trimmed heated front seats, an eight-way power-adjustable driver seat with power lumbar support, a four-way power-adjustable front passenger seat, SofTex-trimmed 40/20/40-split reclining and fold-flat second-row seating, and more.

  • View all Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road Premiums in stock

TRD Pro

  • The TRD Pro features an Entune Premium JBL® audio system with navigation, a power tilt-and-slide moonroof with sunshade, a TRD-stamped aluminum front skid plate, TRD 17-inch matte-black alloy wheels, high-performance LED fog lights, and more.

  • View all Toyota 4Runner TRD Pros in stock

Limited

  • The Limited includes an X-REAS Sport Enhancement Suspension, 20-inch split six-spoke alloy wheels, keyless entry and push-button start, perforated leather-trimmed heated and ventilated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control with second-row vents, and more.

  • View all Toyota 4Runner Limiteds in stock

Limited Nightshade

Toyota 4Runner photos

5 reasons to buy the 2019 Toyota 4Runner

1. Strong foundation

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner features a tough-as-nails body-on-frame design that's built for off-road performance but comfortable for daily travel as well. This SUV includes an independent double-wishbone front suspension and a four-link coil-spring rear suspension that's rugged enough for the trails, yet smooth enough for the city. The 2019 4Runner also incorporates skid plates to protect the engine, front suspension, and fuel tank when traversing over uneven terrain. With 9.6 inches of ground clearance on 2019 4WD models, you'll be able to approach obstacles with confidence in this SUV.

2. Gutsy performance

2019 Toyota 4Runner Review: Engine | CarMax

Every 2019 Toyota 4Runner runs on a 4.0L V6 and a five-speed automatic transmission that pulverizes the pavement to make 270 horsepower and 278 lb.-ft. of torque. All 2019 trims also include a standard integrated tow-hitch receiver and wiring harness that allows this V6 SUV to pull an estimated 5,000 lbs. when properly equipped.

So whether hauling a small boat or towing a camper, the 4Runner lets you bring your toys along for the ride. 2019 models also offer the choice of 2WD, part-time 4WD with a two-speed transfer case, or full-time multi-mode 4WD with a two-speed transfer case and locking center differential (Limited trim only), all of which allows you to customize this SUV's capability.

3. Off-road enhancements

Craving the less-explored path? The 2019 4Runner offers unique off-road enhancements that will let you quench your thirst for tough topography. An available Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (2019 TRD Off-Road models) allows each wheel to separately respond to the terrain conditions, while available Crawl Control provides the ideal combination of low speed and traction to power over hurdles (2019 TRD Off-Road, Off-Road Premium, and TRD Pro models). All 2019 trims also come standard with Hill Start Assist Control, which holds the vehicle at a stop on steep inclines so you can transition from the brake pedal to the accelerator without rolling back. Even the most challenging of obstacles is just another day on the trails for the 4Runner.

4. Full of standard features

2019 Toyota 4Runner Review: Tech Dash | CarMax

You don't need to climb the 2019 4Runner's seven trims to get the features that you want. The base-level SR5 comes with an Entune® Audio Plus system and a 6.1-inch high-resolution touchscreen display with eight speakers, advanced voice recognition, and Bluetooth® capabilities. An integrated navigation system is optional, as well, if you need help finding your way. The 2019 SR5 also boasts a rearview camera to minimize stressful parking moves, while a power-sliding liftgate window lets you feel the breeze. Your passengers will appreciate the air conditioning with rear-seat vents, along with second-row seats that recline up to 16 degrees for the most relaxing ride.

5. Versatile interior

2019 Toyota 4Runner Review: Backseats | CarMax

The Toyota 4Runner gives you options when it comes to interior space. 2019 SR5 Premium, TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium, TRD Pro, and Limited Nightshade trims offer two rows of seating for five passengers, but if you need more room, you can opt for the 2019 SR5 and Limited trims, which feature an available third-row to fit seven passengers. Whether carrying sporting equipment, luggage, or a weekend's worth of camping supplies, the 2019 4Runner swallows up cargo with 47.2 cubic feet of volume with the second row in place. Folding the second row opens up 89.7 cubic feet of haulage and the level load floor makes it easy to transport larger items. To access your tools and supplies, an optional pull-out cargo deck is available on all 2019 trims and can hold up to 440 lbs.

2019 Toyota 4Runner Review: Trunk Cargo | CarMax

2019 Toyota 4Runner video review

The Toyota 4Runner is a midsize two- or three-row SUV that's known for its spacious cargo area and off-road prowess. In this video, Ryan ZumMallen from Edmunds takes the 2019 Toyota 4Runner out to the desert in Southern California to see what this used SUV can do off-road. Between showing off the 4Runner's off-road capabilities, Ryan gives us a tour of the interior and goes over the cabin and all the cargo space this Toyota SUV has to offer. Is a used Toyota 4Runner the right SUV for you and your lifestyle? We answer that question and more in this review of the 2019 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road SUV.

Similar vehicles

If you're interested in the 2019 Toyota 4Runner, you should also check out these similar vehicles from Previous generation years.

Image of Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander is a three-row SUV, which is a smart level-up if you need a little more passenger room to seat up to eight. The base LE model is powered by a 2.7L four-cylinder engine making 185 horsepower, and the other five trims — LE Plus, XLE, SE, Limited, and Limited Platinum — are equipped with a bigger 295-hp 3.5L V6. The handsome Highlander is the SUV you want for families and groups on the go, with a spacious interior and generous feature set. All Toyota Highlanders for model years 2017–2019 include:

  • Rearview camera

  • Driver-assist features like automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure intervention

  • Five USB ports

  • Rear privacy glass

View our photos, specs, and expertise of the 2021 Toyota Highlander.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

CarMax customers love the 2019 Toyota 4Runner for its comfortable interior, great towing power, and decent fuel economy. The standard features make it feel luxurious.
4
Above Average

RepairPal gave the Toyota 4Runner an overall reliability rating of 4 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Toyota 4Runner 7th out of 32 among Midsize SUVs.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Toyota 4Runner

Toyota 4Runner features and specs

Limited 2WD 4D Sport Utility

Standard Features

  • 20 Inch Plus Wheels
  • A/C Seat(s)
  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • CD Audio
  • Cruise Control
  • Entune
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Full Roof Rack
  • JBL Sound System
  • Leather Seats
  • Memory Seat(s)
  • Navigation System
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Parking Sensors
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Sunroof(s)
  • Tow Hitch
  • Traction Control
  • Fold-Away Third Row
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Running Boards
  • Third Row Seat

Drive Wheels

Rear Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

4.0L

Horsepower

270

Torque (ft-lbs)

278

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

23

Wheelbase

109.8"

Overall length

190.7"

Width

75.8"

Height

71.5"

Leg room

F 41.7"/R 32.9"

Head room

F 38.6"/R 38.6"

Front tires

P245/60SR20

Rear tires

P245/60SR20

Seating capacity

5

Max towing capacity

500/5000 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2019 Toyota 4Runner FAQ

More about the 2019 Toyota 4Runner

Color options

Exterior colors

The 2019 Toyota 4Runner is available in eight exterior colors, including:

  • Barcelona Red Metallic

  • Blizzard Pearl

  • Classic Silver Metallic

  • Magnetic Gray Metallic

  • Midnight Black Metallic

  • Nautical Blue Metallic

  • Super White

  • Voodoo Blue

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We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.​

Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

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