General Overview
The Toyota 4Runner in these years is a body-on-frame midsize SUV available in Regular Cab, XtraCab (extended), or Double Cab configurations. Drive options include Rear-Wheel Drive (2WD) or part-time Four-Wheel Drive (4WD). Suspension is independent at the front and coil-sprung live axle at the rear. The 4‑link rear coil design persists into the later 4th‑gen (2002 onward). toyota-4runner.org+13motortrend.com+13top4runners.com+13
Engines & Powertrain
- 2.7 L I4 (3RZ‑FE) introduced early in this period: 150 hp and 177–180 lb‑ft; available in 2WD and 4WD; mated to 4- or 5‑speed automatics or 5‑speed manual.
- 3.4 L V6 (5VZ‑FE) from 1995 to 2002: 183–190 hp and 217–220 lb‑ft torque; 4WD or 2WD; automatic or manual options. TRD offered supercharger kits boosting power further. en.wikipedia.org
Towing & Payload
Towing capacity depends on engine and drivetrain:
- I4–powered models tow up to 3,500 lb.
- V6 models are rated for 5,000 lb, with some TRD/manual variants reaching up to 7,300 lb (especially RWD V8 variants from 2003–2004). kbb.com+15motortrend.com+15edmunds.com+15edmunds.com+1edmunds.com+1
Payload capacity varies between roughly 1,180 lb and 1,700 lb depending on body style and drivetrain. edmunds.com
Dimensions & Capacity
- Length ranges from approximately 176–217 in, varying by cab style.
- Width is about 66.5 in, while height averages between 66–72 in (driven by body style). carsguide.com.au+2edmunds.com+2edmunds.com+2
- Wheelbase spans 103.3–121.9 in.
- Ground clearance is about 9 in, making it a capable off-roader. 4runners.com+14edmunds.com+14edmunds.com+14
- With seats in place, cargo space measures roughly 43–45 cu ft, expanding to about 75–80 cu ft with rear seats folded.
Fuel Economy
- I4 models: approximately 17 mpg combined (15 city / 19 highway).
- V6 models: ~16 mpg combined (15 city / 20 highway). en.wikipedia.org+2edmunds.com+2cars.com+2
Suspension & Off‑Road Features
- Front: independent double-wishbone; rear: solid axle with coil springs.
- Select trims (notably TRD or X‑Runner) come with enhanced shocks, locking rear diff, skid plates, sport suspension, or lowered ride height depending on the model. en.wikipedia.org
Trim Levels & Key Features
- Base / SR5: Standard cloth interior, manual choices, occasional power options.
- Sport / X‑Runner: Offered performance tweaks (e.g., lowered suspension on X‑Runner 2001–2002).
- Limited: Luxury trim including leather seating, moonroof, upgraded audio, fog lamps, running boards, and sometimes an electronic locking rear differential. 4runners.com+1top4runners.com+1
Safety & Technology
- Features include dual front airbags, optional side-curtain airbags (later in production), ABS, seats with traction and stability control, optional locking differentials, and skid plates.
Owner Insights
- Reliability is consistently praised, with many examples exceeding 300,000 miles.
- V6 models tow their rated capacity well, provided cooling and weight distribution are properly managed; traceability and maintenance of suspension geometry are key. en.wikipedia.org+10edmunds.com+10edmunds.com+10
Summary
From 1995 to 2002, the Toyota 4Runner offered durable drivetrain choices—an entry-level 2.7L I4 capable of 3,500 lb towing, and a robust 3.4L V6 towing up to 5,000 lb, with TRD upgrades sometimes extending ratings to over 7,000 lb. Indoor cargo ranges from about 43 to 80 cubic feet depending on seating arrangement. Choose from utilitarian SR5, sporty X‑Runner, or upscale Limited trims. The model is celebrated for its reliability, strong towing capabilities, and off-road friendliness.
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