2003 Toyota 4Runner Reviews, Pricing & Specs

































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































































Overview
After the success of the 2002 model, it would have been easy for Toyota to sit back and enjoy few changes for the next model year. Instead,...
After the success of the 2002 model, it would have been easy for Toyota to sit back and enjoy few changes for the next model year. Instead, the 2003 Toyota 4Runner is completely redesigned, inside and out.
Toyota replaced the 3.4-liter V6 with a 4.0-liter V6 rated at 245 horsepower and 283 lb/ft torque, with a 4.7-liter V8 rated at 235 horsepower and 325 lb/ft of torque available as an upgrade. The V6 gets 18/21 (4x2) or 17/20 (4x4) city/highway fuel efficiency, while the tow-intended V8 gets 16/19.
The 4Runner manages to maintain the comfort of a car while getting near the strength of a full-size SUV and true off-road vehicle. Reviewers love the strong ride and seem to only complain about the mileage.

What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2003 Toyota 4Runner generally share positive experiences. They appreciate its durability, reliability, and strong performance, particularly in off-road conditions. Many drivers are impressed with the V8 engine's power and the SUV's handling in various weather situations. However, some concerns were raised about alignment issues and the vehicle's frame problems, which could affect aging models."
Very satisfied after one year of owning this vehicle. Bought it with 27000 miles and it now has 42000 miles and not one bit of trouble.
September 12, 2007Build Quality: This 4Runner sustained a rear end collision while we were stopped when the other driver hit me at a speed between 45-55 MPH - it was verified that she didn't try to stop. My 4Runner had minor damage. Her car was trashed. My toddler was safe. I had minor neck injury from the sheer force of the hit. The emergency crew on scene were astounded at how well my vehicle stood up in that scenario and said most cars and passengers in those same situations end up badly injured with totaled vehicles. My car was drivable and had minor body work done. I still drive it and would buy another one. Performance: It outperforms most vehicles of this class, and even some smaller cars which have been tricked to race. Tow capability. Handles very well. Appearance: Rugged exterior yet still sleek in body styling. Spoiler is a must! Interior is comfortable, user friendly and roomy. Plenty of space for the family and your luggage for your road trip. Cost of Ownership: MPG is excellent, we've maintained the vehicle meticulously, so even now that we're over 100K in miles, it runs as beautifully as the day we drove it off the lot. Fun Factor: It's 4WD, it's fun! Upgrade your tires and you're set for some major fun. If we had the SeaDoo's we'd be towing them around to the lake and back for more fun. The tow capability is good for the V6. Get a V8 and it's even better.
July 20, 2009A great SUV that's fun to drive and bullet proof reliable.
January 4, 2008What owners say
Very satisfied after one year of owning this vehicle. Bought it with 27000 miles and it now has 42000 miles and not one bit of trouble.
September 12, 2007Build Quality: This 4Runner sustained a rear end collision while we were stopped when the other driver hit me at a speed between 45-55 MPH - it was verified that she didn't try to stop. My 4Runner had minor damage. Her car was trashed. My toddler was safe. I had minor neck injury from the sheer force of the hit. The emergency crew on scene were astounded at how well my vehicle stood up in that scenario and said most cars and passengers in those same situations end up badly injured with totaled vehicles. My car was drivable and had minor body work done. I still drive it and would buy another one. Performance: It outperforms most vehicles of this class, and even some smaller cars which have been tricked to race. Tow capability. Handles very well. Appearance: Rugged exterior yet still sleek in body styling. Spoiler is a must! Interior is comfortable, user friendly and roomy. Plenty of space for the family and your luggage for your road trip. Cost of Ownership: MPG is excellent, we've maintained the vehicle meticulously, so even now that we're over 100K in miles, it runs as beautifully as the day we drove it off the lot. Fun Factor: It's 4WD, it's fun! Upgrade your tires and you're set for some major fun. If we had the SeaDoo's we'd be towing them around to the lake and back for more fun. The tow capability is good for the V6. Get a V8 and it's even better.
July 20, 2009A great SUV that's fun to drive and bullet proof reliable.
January 4, 2008I have a 03' 4runner that I bought certified preowned this year. I found one with 24k miles on it. Back to the car, I love it. It drives really well for an SUV of its size. I have the 4.0 V6 and it moves. I live in Boston so snow is common and the first snow of the year I got on the road before anybody else. Untouched snow that was only about an inch thick (very slippery) and my 4runner drove like it was just another day. Never lost traction even on tight corners. Haven't had one problem yet and Toyota is known for its realiability. All I need now is a place to do some serious off roading. I had my doubts about the 4runner at first but have yet to be let down by it. Great buy.
January 29, 2007These are excellent cars. Toyota trucks hold up better than any other car. They’re very practical and dependable. The v8 is a great option for this year, and with 4wd and factory locking diffs, it is a great off-roader. I couldn’t say enough good things about these cars.
December 9, 2021These are great vehicles , maintained properly last forever. Great buy
January 3, 2021The 4Runner is so fun to drive. I got to the place where I actually looked forward to snow. It handles what mother nature throws at you so well. Absolutely a pleasure to own. plenty of power to get you there.
December 16, 2014Good reliable truck with a vast range of aftermarket accessories
October 25, 2023This never failed me until I had some PM work done at the dealership. BE careful who works on this piece of art. Should last you 300,000 miles with the right mechanic. I had the v8 which had similar fuel economy to the new 6 but I liked the 8 better personally.
October 28, 2012I have never had any problems with this Car/Truck/SUV Anyone who Knows Toyota Quality knows their reputation. No recalls no issues. Always had oil change every 5000 miles Yo nunca he tenido ningún problema con este coche / camión / SUV Cualquiera que conozca la calidad Toyota sabe su reputación. No recuerda ningún problema. Siempre había cambio de aceite cada 5000 millas
September 11, 2012Trims & specs
Base MSRP $33,405 | Seating 5 |
Engine 4.7L 235 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity 42.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $35,680 | Seating 5 |
Engine 4.0L 245 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 42.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $31,275 | Seating 5 |
Engine 4.0L 245 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 42.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 17 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $29,480 | Seating 5 |
Engine 4.7L 235 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity 42.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 15 | Drivetrain 4WD |
Base MSRP $29,000 | Seating 5 |
Engine 4.7L 235 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity 42.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $27,205 | Seating 5 |
Engine 4.7L 235 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity 42.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 16 | Drivetrain RWD |
Pricing trends
MSRP range
$27,205 - $35,680
Current avg. market price
$8,941
Trending up by 1.4% this month
May 2026 - October 2026







