For those expecting a deep dive into off-roading modifications or overlanding setups, let’s set expectations straight: this isn’t that kind of 2001 Toyota 4Runner story. Instead, it’s a journey into appreciating the unique character of a classic body-on-frame Toyota SUV through the eyes of someone who typically favors smaller, sportier rides. Some might joke that owning a truck signifies adulthood, often said by those who revel in pushing the limits of compact cars. However, my passion for driving remains as strong as ever, proving that growing up is optional! The decision to acquire this remarkably robust 2001 Toyota 4Runner was primarily driven by family safety and a desire to retire my spirited EP82 Starlet GT Turbo from daily driving duties. Thus, I inherited my brother’s well-traveled 2001 Toyota 4Runner SR5, boasting 170,000 miles, as my new everyday vehicle.
My familiarity with this 3rd generation 4Runner isn’t new. Back in July, when my Starlet was experiencing some mechanical hiccups, my brother generously lent me this very truck for a few weeks while I awaited parts. Although I eventually resolved the Starlet’s fuel pump and filter issues, during that interim, I began to relish the convenience of the 4Runner. No more contorting myself like a yoga master every time I needed to get my kids out of the back of my beloved but compact Starlet. The 2001 Toyota 4Runner’s ride quality also proved to be significantly more forgiving on my daily commute to daycare. Those familiar road bumps that I used to meticulously swerve around in the Starlet, much to my children’s amusement, were effortlessly absorbed by the 4Runner’s larger tires. Driving the 4Runner instilled a sense of ease during routine drives.
In my lightweight Starlet, weighing in at around 1900lbs and lacking modern safety features to protect against today’s prevalent 2-ton vehicles, safety was a constant concern, especially in Florida’s unpredictable driving environment. From drivers potentially impaired by health issues or advanced age, to the ubiquitous distracted drivers glued to their phones, and aggressive drivers accustomed to battling city traffic, the roads can be challenging. The EP82, while fun, was simply not the safest family vehicle option. While a 2001 model naturally lacks the advanced safety technologies of contemporary cars, the 4Runner offers front airbags, a higher driving position for better visibility, and a substantial size advantage. These features collectively provide a greater sense of security for my family in the event of an accident.
Close-up of the front grille and headlight of the 2001 Toyota 4Runner, emphasizing its classic Toyota styling.
Living with a 2001 4Runner: Performance and Drivetrain
However, the increased safety and space of the 2001 Toyota 4Runner come with trade-offs, notably at the fuel pump. Switching to a heavier vehicle means a significant jump in fuel costs. Filling the Starlet used to cost around $30 for two weeks of driving on premium 93 octane. Now, the 4Runner requires about $42 of regular fuel every ten days. Welcome to the world of truck ownership, I suppose. This leads us to the drivetrain: the 2001 Toyota 4Runner SR5 is equipped with the renowned 5VZ-FE V6 engine, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, delivering power to the rear wheels in this non-4WD model. The 3.4L V6 produces 183 horsepower and 217 lb-ft of torque, sufficient for towing up to 5,000lbs. While 0-60 times aren’t its priority – unlike today’s performance-focused pickup trucks – this 4Runner was engineered for different kinds of tasks.
Engine bay of the 2001 Toyota 4Runner, showcasing the 3.4L V6 5VZ-FE engine.
Fuel economy, as expected, is less impressive than the Starlet. When new, the 2001 Toyota 4Runner was rated at 16 mpg city and 19 mpg highway. With my driving habits, mostly local errands, I believe I’m achieving figures close to, or perhaps slightly exceeding, those original numbers. However, the driving experience is surprisingly relaxed. I frequently find myself cruising below 2,500 rpm, even on occasional highway stretches. The four-speed transmission features exceptionally tall gearing. While it offers overdrive deactivation and an ECT button to hold gears longer, I haven’t felt compelled to push this vehicle to its performance limits.
Interior shot of the 2001 Toyota 4Runner's dashboard and steering wheel, highlighting the analog gauges and Pioneer head unit.
The 3rd Gen 4Runner Legacy: Capability and Comfort
The 2001 Toyota 4Runner hails from an era where mid-size SUVs were inherently truck-like. Masaaki Ishiko, leveraging the success of the previous generation, refined the Hilux Surf/4Runner into a highly capable off-road vehicle. The N180 4Runner generation introduced a new chassis with all-around coil springs, rack and pinion steering, and expanded interior space. This design prioritized not just cargo and outdoor gear, but also passenger comfort. This was a time before the RAV4 fully matured and before the Highlander debuted at the tail end of the 3rd gen 4Runner’s production in 2000. Consequently, almost every SUV from this period felt fundamentally “like a truck.” My 4Runner certainly embodies this truck-like nature. Quick cornering, rapid acceleration from stops, or any semblance of “sporty driving” are best approached with moderation, as the 4Runner leans towards deliberate rather than agile handling.
Front three-quarter view of the 2001 Toyota 4Runner, emphasizing its robust and slightly boxy SUV shape.
This isn’t to say the 4Runner is clumsy. I’ve explored its handling limits to understand its dynamics. The higher center of gravity demands mindful driving inputs, a lesson reinforced by track day experiences. Surprisingly, it exhibits less body roll than a Miata (a playful comparison!). However, the brakes are a notable weak point, and not just from a small-car driver’s perspective. They generally feel inadequate for quickly stopping this SUV. The front disc and rear drum brake combination isn’t inherently flawed, but the diminutive size of the front calipers and rotors results in extended stopping distances, even with ABS. Even from 35 mph, bringing the 4Runner to a halt requires planning and early braking. Navigating obstacles or reacting to traffic necessitates careful anticipation and braking well in advance. The Falken WildPeak HT-01 all-season tires perform admirably in wet and dry conditions, and even on light sand during beach outings. While not the extreme off-road WildPeak variants, they are capable all-around tires suited for moderate conditions.
Rear view of the 2001 Toyota 4Runner, showing the tailgate and rear window design.
Inside the Beige Bomber: Interior and Practicality
The 2001 4Runner’s interior provides generous space for passengers and cargo, constructed with durable materials designed to withstand years of use. This SR5 model features tan leather seats. While I personally prefer cloth upholstery in Florida’s heat, the leather is undoubtedly preferable to black leather and has held up remarkably well for a vehicle initially sold in 2000. The driver’s seat shows some wear, with a crack in the knee bolster area, but otherwise, the seats are in excellent condition thanks to the care of its previous owners. The dashboard and door panels combine dark brown and tan leather, vinyl, and plastic, all remaining intact and crack-free. Only a few of the commonly lost push-tabs are missing, readily replaceable Toyota parts.
Interior detail of the 2001 Toyota 4Runner's leather seats and door panel.
Infotainment is straightforward: an analog instrument cluster with speedometer and tachometer dominates the driver’s view, complemented by a double-DIN Pioneer head unit capable of handling modern audio sources, though not cassette tapes. Storage is a strong suit, living up to truck expectations for hauling cargo and people. The 3rd gen 4Runner comfortably seats five with ample room. While it lacks the third row of larger SUVs like the Land Cruiser or Lexus GX, three adults can realistically fit in the second row. Beyond the convenient pop-out rear cupholders, the rear seat folding mechanism is particularly well-designed. To create a flat cargo floor, simply flip the seat cushion forward, remove the headrests (which cleverly store in slots under the seat), and fold down the seatbacks. This configuration yields substantial cargo space, enough to assist in any “hypothetical” mafia-related errands. A useful feature is the retractable cargo cover, functioning like a heavy-duty roller shade. It provides an added layer of privacy when needed. Finally, the power-operated rear window is a standout feature, controllable from the key fob. Lowering the rear window remotely is incredibly convenient for quickly loading items into the cargo area. This feature, increasingly rare in modern SUVs, is a testament to thoughtful Toyota engineering.
Driving Dynamics and Daily Enjoyment
Driving the N180 4Runner is surprisingly easy. Despite being the largest vehicle I’ve owned, it feels manageable and lane-keeping isn’t a constant struggle. As a true mid-size body-on-frame SUV, it does require attention on less-than-perfect road surfaces. However, designed for a price point equivalent to around $53,000 today, the suspension and interior effectively balance comfort and capability. This is a versatile vehicle, embodying Toyota’s legendary reliability in a practical package. Handling isn’t typically a primary concern for truck owners, especially those accustomed to cornering prowess. Yet, the 4Runner’s rack and pinion steering, combined with hydraulic assistance, provides a steering feel that requires some effort for quick turns, but without feeling overly heavy or outdated.
Dashboard and steering wheel of the 2001 Toyota 4Runner from the driver's perspective.
The 5VZ-FE engine is undoubtedly a highlight, renowned for its bulletproof reliability. However, I do find myself wishing for a bit more initial torque and quicker acceleration. Street racing isn’t on the agenda, but more responsive acceleration would be appreciated. The four-speed automatic transmission is arguably the drivetrain’s limiting factor. With the manual transmission discontinued for the 2000 model year, 2001 4Runners were exclusively paired with this automatic, which prioritizes cruising over spirited driving. An extra gear or two would enhance versatility, improve fuel economy, and potentially increase speed. While a manual transmission isn’t necessary, the four-speed auto, despite its limitations, is undeniably more robust than many modern CVT transmissions. Overall, driving the 2001 Toyota 4Runner has opened my eyes to the enduring appeal of these capable trucks. It’s comfortable, spacious, and provides the reassurance of Toyota reliability, promising many more miles with proper maintenance, ensuring safe family transport.
Front seats of the 2001 Toyota 4Runner, showcasing the leather upholstery and interior space.
Future Plans for the 2001 Toyota 4Runner
Naturally, no vehicle in my possession remains stock for long. Pinpointing specific modifications for the 4Runner is still a work in progress. So far, the only upgrade has been swapping the underwhelming halogen headlights for brighter LED bulbs. My modification vision for the N180 leans towards enhanced capability and practicality, prioritizing all-weather mats and fog lights over purely aesthetic overlanding accessories. Mirroring my approach with other vehicles, focusing on safety and longevity is key. A significant initial upgrade will be a brake system overhaul, incorporating V6 Toyota Tundra calipers, pads, and rotors, along with braided brake lines for improved stopping performance.
Front view of the 2001 Toyota 4Runner parked outdoors, suggesting potential modifications and upgrades.
While cooling hasn’t been an immediate concern, towing my AE86 in the scorching summer heat necessitates a radiator upgrade to an all-aluminum unit. As the transmission cooler is integrated into the stock radiator, this upgrade will also ensure the transmission operates reliably, even under demanding conditions. Interior enhancements will be subtle, primarily focusing on adding all-weather floor mats for easy cleaning after beach trips or camping. Exterior modifications are still under consideration. I appreciate the current ride height and tires, but envision Black Rhino wheels and perhaps side cargo window covers that integrate accessory mounting options. Embracing the 4Runner lifestyle, a roof rack upgrade is planned. While a roof tent isn’t in my immediate plans, the versatility to carry a paddleboard or kayak without a lengthy loading process is appealing. Under the hood, 5VZ-FE engine modifications are being contemplated. A 2UZ V8 swap is tempting, given my familiarity with that engine, but exploring E85 compatibility, engine tuning, and mild camshaft upgrades during the next valve adjustment is also under consideration. If a supercharger becomes available at the right price, that would be welcomed too. Given my earlier critique of the four-speed automatic, investigating modern six-speed transmission swaps is on the horizon. Inspired by channels like Zero To 60 and their BMW 8-speed transmission swaps, I’m exploring the possibilities of modernizing the drivetrain. Ultimately, my goal is to enjoy the 2001 Toyota 4Runner for its inherent strengths: a capable and safe SUV for family transportation. To further enhance its potential, I plan to engage with the 4Runner community, learn from their experiences, and apply that knowledge to my “beige bomber.” Stay tuned for future updates!
