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Independent review & score by Carivo
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
|---|---|
| Body Style | SUV |
| Base Price | $46,554–$61,284 |
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
With an overall Carivo score of 7.5/10, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner S earns a Recommended rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 9.1/10, while Technology at 6.0/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate the Toyota 4Runner S's reliability at 9.1/10 — among the strongest in our suv database, reflecting the nameplate's track record and recall history. On safety it earns 7.3/10: respectable, if not class-leading — several competitors bundle more driver-assist tech as standard. Check your trim's official ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance lands mid-pack at 7.6/10: enough power and composure for everyday needs, without the dynamics that distinguish the segment's driver-focused options. Technology scores 6.0/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $46,554–$61,284, 18 MPG, seating 5, the Toyota 4Runner S sits in the premium tier of the suv category. The value score of 6.7/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 3 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Bottom line: Think of the 2023 Toyota 4Runner S as the dependable pick rather than the exciting one. Its softer scores in value and technology are the only real asterisks. Shoppers who value predictability over headlines will be well served.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
The 2023 Toyota 4Runner S ranks #947 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 61% of the segment. Its 7.5/10 overall score is 0.1 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $46,554 starting price is about 29% above the segment's median of $36,079.
Rankings are recalculated as new vehicles and scores are added. See the full SUV ranking →
Smart-money pick: the 2020 Toyota 4Runner S scores 7.3/10 — within striking distance of the 2023's 7.5 — and starts roughly $4,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
| Year | Score | Starting price (MSRP when new) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 7.6/10 | $49,435 | Read review → |
| 2024 | 7.5/10 | $47,995 | Read review → |
| 2023 (this review) | 7.5/10 | $46,554 | |
| 2022 | 7.4/10 | $45,114 | Read review → |
| 2021 | 7.3/10 | $43,674 | Read review → |
| 2020 | 7.3/10 | $42,234 | Read review → |
| 2019 | 7.3/10 | $40,795 | Read review → |
| 2018 | 7.2/10 | $39,355 | Read review → |
| 2017 | 7.2/10 | $37,915 | Read review → |
| 2016 | 7.1/10 | $36,475 | Read review → |
| 2015 | 7.1/10 | $35,035 | Read review → |
Explore the full lineup of Toyota models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.