The 2017 4Runner is a rugged off-road SUV that holds its value exceptionally well. But gas mileage and comfort issues make the Toyota less suitable for everyday use.
2017 Toyota 4Runner: Quick Overview
- For 2017, Toyota Racing Design took over the 4Runner platform, aiming to give the SUV a more enhanced off-roading experience.
- The 2017 4Runner is a more rugged version of its predecessor, but with this ruggedness comes some reported discomfort for passengers.
- A 4.0L V6 engine puts out a fuel economy of 17/21 mpg city/highway on two-wheel-drive versions and 17/20 on four-wheel-drive 4Runners.
- J.D. Power rated the Toyota 4Runner the #1 Midsize SUV in 2017.
- Only 26 complaints have been filed with the NHTSA. And, of its five recalls, three are for improper labels, and none are threats to passenger safety.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2017 Toyota 4Runner Have?
The 2017 4Runner’s two most concerning recalls are for a roof rack and front grille that are prone to loosening and falling off the vehicle. The rest of the recalls deal with incorrect labels on the vehicle. Of the 4Runner’s few complaints, the most common issue is a spongy brake pedal, which drivers say loses pressure with no prior warning, often forcing them to press the pedal all the way to the floor to get the brakes to work.
Other complaints on the NHTSA database are about the wiring system. Toyota uses a soy base for its wires, and this attracts rodents, who love the taste (no, seriously). According to this Seattle-based electrical system complaint, it is a very common issue, and leads to the car’s electronics systems behaving erratically. Something to consider if you live in an area with a high rodent population.
What are the Prices, Models, and Specs?
- SR5 is the Toyota 4Runner’s base model that had an MSRP of $34,200 for the two-wheel-drive version.
- TRD Off-Road models started at $38,300 and featured four-wheel drive, with trim that was essentially unchanged from the SR5.
- TRD Pro Series, which started at $43,400, also has four-wheel drive and an elevated trim platform more properly geared towards rugged off-roading.
- The Toyota 4Runner Limited models, whose MSRP was $43,500 in 2017, are similar to the TRD Pro series, with enhanced interior luxuries like memory-foam seats.
Compare those to today’s prices, and you will see that the 2017 4Runner’s value has not dropped much at all, with used vehicles ranging from $30,990 for the SR5 to $47,999 for a fully-equipped TRD Pro model. Some SR5s have even seen their prices increase since 2017, a rarity for any vehicle, and likely caused by the ballooning car market we have seen since 2020.
How Long Will the 2017 Toyota 4Runner Last?
The 2017 4Runner has only been on the road for five years now, but if prospective buyers look to Toyota’s lengthy history with vehicles that last well beyond 200,000 miles, it wouldn’t be out of the question to expect the 2017 4Runner to do the same. 4Runner owners on enthusiast sites like 4Runners report their vehicles lasting from 250,000 to 300,00 miles on average. These vehicles were designed for intense off-roading purposes, with 4Runners being spotted in conflict zones like Syria.
Annual maintenance for the 2017 Toyota 4Runner has been priced at around $696 by Repair Pal. This means a monthly maintenance budget of $58—not bad for something many drivers will expect to tackle terrain from Moab to the Mojave Desert.
My 4Runner is our third Toyota vehicle. I think it is very reliable. However, there is a slight wind whistle from the driver’s door. I have asked the dealer to inspect it but they haven't found anything wrong.
It is very reliable. Have had no issues at all. It gets me to work every day and through bad weather in the winter
So far the 2017 Toyota 4Runner is very reliable. We have not had any problems with any electronics, mechanical, or anything I can think of. In the hot summer the AC has worked great as well.
I've never experienced any problem with the vehicle. Toyota’s are very reliable and aren't likely to breakdown.
Very reliable for the last several years and has never had any random issues or kinks in the vehicle
Not yet it looks perfect and nice model will definitely buy in future for sure. 4runner is reliable and worth it to buy
I think yes, it is reliable because for the moment I don't have any problem with the car, I'm really happy
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
When it comes to safety, Toyota’s 2017 4Runner scores well in Insurance Institute for Highway Safety collision tests. It received scores of “Good” in every category except the small overlap-front region of the driver’s side, which received a “Marginal” rating. The 2017 4Runners come equipped with many safety and technology features that include:
- Eight airbags and side-impact door beam
- ABS braking system and stability control
- Backup camera with projected path
- Foot pedal parking brake
- Three-point seat belts for all seating positions
- Child-protector rear door locks and power window lockout
- Entune Premium JBL audio system with navigation and app suite
- 6.1 in high-resolution touch-screen with split-screen display
- AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability
The main knock against the 2017 4Runner’s safety features is the absence of a front crash prevention system.
What Engine Options are Available?
All 2017 4Runners come equipped with a 4.0L V6 engine. Paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, the V6 puts out 270 horsepower, but is reported, as are many recent 4Runner models, to not accelerate very quickly. Torque tops out at 278 lb.-ft., enough to tow up to 5,000 pounds. The decision to mate the 4.0L engine with a five-speed transmission hampers the 2017’s fuel economy. With 17/21 mpg city/highway, it’s one of the worst performers in its class.
What Color Options are Available?
How Big is the 2017 Toyota 4Runner?
Consumers love the amount of overall space they have inside the Toyota SUV. Optional third-row seating allows for up to seven passengers, but those passengers in the third row might be hitting their knees against the seats in front of them. The front seats are roomy and a high ceiling allows for above-average headroom; the 2017 4Runner doesn’t leave you feeling claustrophobic in the front seats. With the third row down, the rear compartment of the 2017 4Runner holds 47.2 cu. ft. of cargo; that’s enough space for about 19 microwaves in the back of your Toyota. Notable dimensions include:
- Length: 190.2″ (SR5, Premium); 190.7″ (Limited)’ 191.3″ (TRD Off-Road, Off-Road Premium, and Pro)
- Width: 75.8″
- Height: 70.1″ (no roof rack); 71.5″ (with roof rack); 72″ (TRD Pro)
- Headroom: first row: 39.3″ (38.6″ with sunroof); second row: 38.6 inches; optional third row: 34.3″
- Legroom: first row: 41.7″; second row: 32.9″; third row: 29.3″
How Does the 2017 Toyota 4Runner Compare to Other Midsize SUVs?
J.D. Power ranked the 2017 RAV4 as the Number One midsize SUV in 2017 in a three-way tie with the Buick Enclave and the Toyota Highlander. The Buick is significantly cheaper on the used market, with buyers paying between $23,000 and $34,000. But it’s important to note that both the Enclave and Highlander were meant for far different purposes than the 2017 4Runner. If you’re looking for an in- and around-town vehicle, the Highlander or Enclave might be the better bet—both get improved gas mileage and a cheaper price tag.
However, if you’re looking for off-roading capabilities, consider the 2017 Jeep Wrangler or Grand Cherokee—both four-wheel-drive vehicles. The 4×4 Wrangler has the same gas mileage, slightly improved horsepower, and a much lower price tag, at around $25,000. But towing capacity is reduced to 2,000 pounds, and it comes with fewer safety precautions than the 4Runner, and a lower IIHS score.
The Grand Cherokee is a more direct competitor of the Toyota 4Runner—an SUV that looks good and holds its own both on the pavement and in the dirt. With the Grand Cherokee, drivers get a lower price tag, between $20,000 and $30,000, and an improvement in gas mileage. Towing again takes a dip, down to 3,500 pounds.
On paper, the Jeeps seem the more cost-effective buy for a driver who’s looking to get into some off-road adventures, but with the Jeeps come some increased maintenance costs, as with any American vehicle compared to a Japanese automaker. Additionally, there aren’t many who could expect to see the same longevity out of a Jeep as they would a Toyota.
Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Toyota 4Runner a Good SUV?
For diehard off-roaders, yes. The 2017 4Runner is the best option at this price range. It was meant for rugged endurance, and the SUV can do more than competitors when it’s off the pavement, and it will last much longer doing it, while holding its value better than most vehicles on the market.
The 4Runner excels in the dirt, but in the city or on the highway, there are more versatile SUVs to consider for lower prices. But the 2017 4Runner may still be the way to go if you can overlook an uncomfortable ride for passengers and woeful gas mileage.
Photos: Toyota