Toyota
4Runner
Filter
Save Saved

1997 Toyota 4Runner Owner Ratings & Reviews

Write a Review

1997 Toyota 4Runner - 4 runner '97 = Toyota heaven.

4Runner Owner
Phoenix, Arizona
Overall
5.0
Value
5.0
Performance
4.0
Style
5.0
Comfort
5.0
Fuel Economy
4.0
Reliability
5.0
I bought this SUV used with ~99 thousand (+/-) from a dealer and the price was very reasonable. I financed the amount for 24 months. Right away I fell in love with this SUV, an easy to drive 6 cyl. automatic with 4 wheel drive, Engine has plenty of power, it goes when asked, never sluggish. It is smooth over the road, steering is tight, no sway, it corners with stability, good anti-lock braking. It seats five comfortably and the back is a large open space for hauling, with a retractable cover. This is been the best car I've ever owned. I would recommend this car highly. Good gas mileage for an SUV, around 18 MPG.
Story
Took a two day getaway and we were able to comfortably sleep in the back of the vehicle. We folded down both seats to make more room, put down sleeping bags, pillows and other covers and had 2 great nights, cozy and warm.
Pros
The 4-Runner is comfortable on many levels. The front has a heavy duty brush guard, also has a roof rack, tilt top and retractable sun roof and running boards. The seat belts are adjustable for height. Even the hand holds to help you in and out of the vehicle are in the perfect spot. There's a great view in all directions from the driver's seat. The interior is comfortable, with buckets in the front and comfortable bench. The back seats fold down individually if extra space is needed.
Cons
Plastic interior pieces have cracked and come off.

1997 Toyota 4Runner - The Toyota 4Runner: Only vehicle I'll ever own

Kristina
Graniteville, South Carolina
Overall
4.0
Value
5.0
Performance
4.0
Style
5.0
Comfort
5.0
Fuel Economy
4.0
Reliability
5.0
I love 4Runners in general. My current 4Runner is the fourth I've owned and the only vehicles I have ever owned personally (a 1987, a 1990, a 1998 and a 1997 currently). Generally speaking, they are very mechanically reliable and engine life expectancy with proper maintenance is exceptional. I have owned two that were very near 300,000 miles and running strong when they were wrecked and totaled, and both engines still ran smoothly after the bodies were destroyed. It gets fair gas mileage, averaging somewhere between 18 and 20 mpg. They are fairly simple to perform DIY maintenance on and even more involved tasks can be done easily with mechanical knowledge. The engine bay area is not cramped, and most components are easily accessible. The ground clearance is also very appreciated when w... (more)
Story
Going to a local drag strip and sitting comfortably in the cargo area instead of on the bleachers while watching the races.
Pros
Engine life expectancy and reliability are definitely major pros. My husband particularly likes the "ball vent" underneath the steering wheel, which blows the A/C directly between the driver's legs. Decent gas mileage. Aesthetically pleasing. Rear seats fold completely flat for extra space if needed.
Cons
Hard to handle in heavy winds or when driving behind a semi truck, easily blown side to side. Some parts are expensive.