1996-2002 Toyota 4Runner: Year-to-Year Changes
Updated: 11/23/08
Reviews & Ratings
Pricing
Explore
Specifications & Safety
Related to Toyota 4Runner
Related Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1996-2002 Toyota 4Runner. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1996-2002 Toyota 4Runner.
Year to Year Changes
1997 Toyota 4Runner:
A 2-wheel-drive version of the posh Limited became available for '97. A more sophisticated sequential fuel-injection system went into the 4-cylinder engine, as did a new ignition system.
1998 Toyota 4Runner:
The only change for '98 involved a dealer-installed supercharger for the V6 engine. It increased horsepower by nearly 70 and torque by 50. It also carried the same warranty as regular V6 engines.
1999 Toyota 4Runner:
Toyota added full-time 4WD on the Limited. Other models made do with part-time 4WD systems. Across-the-board changes included a mild facelift, standard auto-off headlamps, and a new center console. SR5 models gained an optional Sport Package that added fender flares, fog lamps, hood scoop, and color-keyed bumpers. Limiteds also received a tailgate-window down feature on the keyless remote, plus auto climate control.
2000 Toyota 4Runner:
Changes were minor for 2000. Daytime running lights were fitted to 4Runners with ABS. A new CD/cassette stereo was optional for base models, standard for SR5 and Limited. Body-color fender flares became available for SR5s, and were included in an optional "Highlander" Sport option package.
2001 Toyota 4Runner:
4Runner lost its base 4-cylinder models and manual transmission for 2001, but all models now had full-time 4-wheel-drive and an antiskid/traction-control system. All models also got a revised grille and taillamps, and the Limited added standard heated front seats, Homelink remote door opener, and an optional in-dash CD changer.
2002 Toyota 4Runner:
For '02, 4Runner got a new Chrome Package with bright exterior trim. Also new were standard instead of optional air conditioning, remote keyless entry, and alloy wheels for SR5s. 4Runner was redesigned for '03.
Advertisement
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
