The Old-School Off-Road SUV That’s Still Worth Every Penny

While modern SUVs often prioritize tech and comfort, one classic off-roader proves timeless engineering still matters. This 2020 model delivers rugged durability and a proven platform, making it a standout for drivers who value capability over the latest gadgets. Its reputation for reliability ensures it remains a smart buy even years after leaving the showroom.

Built on a tough body-on-frame chassis, it’s designed to handle punishing trails and long adventures without breaking a sweat. A strong engine, generous ground clearance, and real four-wheel-drive hardware give it confidence on everything from rocky climbs to muddy backroads. Inside, its straightforward layout and roomy cabin make it practical for daily driving or weekend getaways.

As newer SUVs chase trends, this veteran stays true to its mission: uncompromising performance and long-term dependability. For buyers seeking a proven off-road companion that holds its value, this 2020 icon is still worth every penny.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including TopSpeed, Edmunds, CarEdge, RepairPal, J.D. Power, and the EPA.

The 4Runner Offers Rugged Reliability and Impressive Capability

If you ask anyone what car you should get if you’re looking to get into off-roading, one of the first names that will always pop up is the Toyota 4Runner. It has a long-standing reputation of reliability that spans back decades. Despite being a little old-school, there are few used SUVs that will offer the same level of capability, even if you are trading off some modern features.

The 2020 Model Is Our Pick

Picking which model year best appeals to you comes down to what equipment you want. The fifth generation of the SUV ran from 2010 to 2024, meaning there are a ton of models to choose from. We also definitely wouldn’t blame you for going for something older. For the sake of price, modern features, and long-term reliability, though, we’d go with the 2020 model.

For 2020, Toyota introduced a number of upgrades to the rugged SUV, including a more comprehensive package of safety equipment called Toyota Safety Sense-P. The infotainment system was also upgraded to be smooth and more responsive, also allowing for connection via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Every model also now came with built-in navigation.

Average 2020 4Runner Pricing

If you were to buy a brand new 4Runner, you would spend somewhere between $42,765 and $59,395. While the new model certainly justifies its price tag with a bevy of modern features, it is on average $10,000 more expensive than getting a 2020 model. The new model’s hybrid powertrain is also unproven in terms of reliability, despite Toyota assuring us its solid. Finally, not everyone wants a bunch of new tech in their car, and rocking it old-school feels much more attractive.

If you’re not buying a 4Runner for its off-road capability, then you should probably be looking at another vehicle. The 4Runner is great, but it has been outdated for years and its on-road manners are below par. With this in mind, we’d go with the TRD Off-Road. It’s a bare-bones truck-based SUV that comes with all the trail-ready equipment you’d want. It also gives you a good base to work off of if you’re someone who enjoys modifying their car.

We know that you’re spending a little more for a 2020 model, but the benefit of opting for a 4Runner is that they’re really desirable. You’re not likely to lose out too much in terms of depreciation.

Reliability and Maintenance Costs

• Average Yearly Maintenance: $514 (RepairPal)
• Average Ten-Year Maintenance: $6,492 (CarEdge)
• Reliability Score: 85/100

The 4Runner benefits from Toyota’s stellar reputation for reliability, with a proven track record of lasting. There are a number of owners who proudly report the high mileages they’ve achieved in their 4Runner, with it being a badge of honor. On J.D. Power, Toyota’s rugged SUV scores very highly.

Maintaining a 4Runner is generally pretty inexpensive. CarEdge estimates that the money you’ll spend on maintenance over ten years of owning a 4Runner is $1,716 less than the average SUV. There is also only a 16.6 percent chance it will need a single repair that costs more than $500 in that time, which is nearly eight percent better than the average.

A Stoic V-6 Powers the Resilient Machine Through Any Terrain

The 2020 4Runner is five years old now, and a whole new generation has hit the roads since then. You’d rightly think that it is a bit outdated. Even back in 2020, its competitors were far more modern and much more advanced, particularly when it came to mechanical bits and bobs. There is a benefit to sticking with something old, though, with many backing the old platform as being much sturdier.

2020 4Runner Performance Specifications

A rugged V-6 sits at the heart of every 4Runner, working in tandem with a five-speed automatic transmission. You could pair this setup with either rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, or four-wheel drive. The SR5 comes standard with rear-wheel drive but most other models get a selectable part-time four-wheel drive system. The Limited is the exception, which can be had with rear-wheel drive or a full-time all-wheel drive system with a Torsen center differential.

2020 4Runner Off-Road Capability

• Ground Clearance: 9.6 Inches
• Approach Angle: 33 Degrees
• Departure Angle: 26 Degrees
• Breakover Angle: 19.8 Degrees

Every model offers a good basis for off-roading, with the four-wheel drive TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro models performing the best. They offer up to 9.6 inches of ground clearance and excellent approach and departure angles. It is designed to handle tough terrain and handle it well.

Every four-wheel drive 4Runner comes with a two-speed transfer case and a low-range setting. Its old V-6 may sound gruff, but it delivers plenty of grunt to get you where you need to go. Multi-Terrain Select, crawl control, and an electronically locking rear differential are standard on TRD models. You can also get highly rated all-terrain tires, a dynamic suspension system, and skid plates.

Fuel Economy

Unfortunately, the downside to a large old-fashioned V-6 is that they aren’t particularly light on fuel. As you can see in the table above, the 4Runner is an absolute gas-guzzler. If you’re looking for a silver lining, at least you know that you’re not further punished for opting for the all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive models.

The 4Runner Offers a Spacious and Practical, but Its Dated

As we’ve mentioned a couple of times, Toyota wasn’t exactly ahead of the times with the 2020 4Runner. If you can get past the hard plastics and the old dashboard setup, you’ll find that it is, however, incredibly practical, offering tons of space on the inside.

Interior Dimensions and Comfort

The 4Runner features a deep and spacious cargo hold, with a number of deep cubbies throughout the cabin, supporting its utilitarian approach. Some models also feature an optional pull-out cargo deck which makes loading and unloading easier. The 4Runner comes with either two rows or three rows of seats, so factor this in to your choice of model.

The 4Runner very clearly leans into its identity as an old SUV, with buttons and switches that look inspired by cars from decades past. Materials are also a little downclass, with hard plastics everywhere. It does, however, come with some niceties, like dual-zone climate control, rear air vents, and power-adjustable front seats on some models.

Infotainment and Technology

In every 2020 4Runner, you’ll find a reasonable eight-inch infotainment system. It runs Toyota’s Entune software, which is simple and responsive. It was also updated for 2020 to include Apple CarPlay and Anroid Auto capability. There are plenty of power points throughout the cabin, along with a number of USB ports as well.