SURF RUNNER
Senior Member
Lately I was thinking about all of the things I like about 3rd Generation 4Runners. Finally, I decided that I would start a thread on it.
- Definitely one of the best-looking SUVs ever made. The overall design, body lines, sheet metal creases, proportions, etc. all make for a vehicle with outstanding aesthetics.
- The original color options (see chart below) were varied and overall very good. There are only 2 or 3 colors I wouldn't want.
- I like the size of the 4Runners. Many SUVs are just too big.
- The interior is really well done. I have the Limited tan interior and it has a classic look. There about 10 different shades of tan in the interior, but this makes it easy to modify the interior - anything that is tan or light brown will work. The ergonomics are good. I even like odd items like the pull out cup holder on the dash of the early 4Runners. My 97 had that, but my 01 doesn't.
- When you fold down the second row there is a very long cargo bay. I have been able to transport some large items in there.
- There are some very subtle details few notice like the background of the gauge surround. If you look closely it has sort of a carbon fiber look to it. This is way before carbon fiber became all the rage.
- The factory tint of the side and rear windows is fairly dark. Not every vehicle comes like this from the factory.
- The factory wheels are nice for these vehicles... especially the five stars. If you search all of the aftermarket options there are fewer than half a dozen wheels that look as good on these vehicles as five stars.
- I like all of the trim levels: base, SR5, Highlander/Sports Edition, and Limited. This makes it fun to customize your vehicle to make it exactly what you want. Most of us have or want the hood with the scoop that came standard on the Sports model from 1999-2002.
- Having a JDM sister vehicle like the Hilux Surf gives us more options as far as parts and customization options.
- The parts/custom aftermarket for 4Runners is very active. Plus parts made for Tacomas often fit our vehicles as well.
- You can buy a used 3rd Gen 4Runner for anywhere between $2,000 and $15,000. This makes it fairly easy to get exactly what you want as far as quality and price.
- This forum adds to the enjoyment of owning a 4Runner for me personally. This is a great online society full of good folks.
What do you like about 3rd Generation 4Runners?
- Definitely one of the best-looking SUVs ever made. The overall design, body lines, sheet metal creases, proportions, etc. all make for a vehicle with outstanding aesthetics.
- The original color options (see chart below) were varied and overall very good. There are only 2 or 3 colors I wouldn't want.
- I like the size of the 4Runners. Many SUVs are just too big.
- The interior is really well done. I have the Limited tan interior and it has a classic look. There about 10 different shades of tan in the interior, but this makes it easy to modify the interior - anything that is tan or light brown will work. The ergonomics are good. I even like odd items like the pull out cup holder on the dash of the early 4Runners. My 97 had that, but my 01 doesn't.
- When you fold down the second row there is a very long cargo bay. I have been able to transport some large items in there.
- There are some very subtle details few notice like the background of the gauge surround. If you look closely it has sort of a carbon fiber look to it. This is way before carbon fiber became all the rage.
- The factory tint of the side and rear windows is fairly dark. Not every vehicle comes like this from the factory.
- The factory wheels are nice for these vehicles... especially the five stars. If you search all of the aftermarket options there are fewer than half a dozen wheels that look as good on these vehicles as five stars.
- I like all of the trim levels: base, SR5, Highlander/Sports Edition, and Limited. This makes it fun to customize your vehicle to make it exactly what you want. Most of us have or want the hood with the scoop that came standard on the Sports model from 1999-2002.
- Having a JDM sister vehicle like the Hilux Surf gives us more options as far as parts and customization options.
- The parts/custom aftermarket for 4Runners is very active. Plus parts made for Tacomas often fit our vehicles as well.
- You can buy a used 3rd Gen 4Runner for anywhere between $2,000 and $15,000. This makes it fairly easy to get exactly what you want as far as quality and price.
- This forum adds to the enjoyment of owning a 4Runner for me personally. This is a great online society full of good folks.
What do you like about 3rd Generation 4Runners?
Last edited:
