2017 Toyota 4Runner SL — Carivo review carivo.co
SUV

2017 Toyota 4Runner SL

Independent review & score by Carivo

Price Range $42,861–$54,350
Fuel Economy 12 MPG
Seating 5 passengers
Category SUV
Est. Annual Fuel $4,375/yr

Key Specifications — 2017 Toyota 4Runner SL

Seating Capacity5 passengers
Body StyleSUV
Base Price$42,861–$54,350

Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.

About the 2017 Toyota 4Runner SL

With an overall Carivo score of 7.2/10, the 2017 Toyota 4Runner SL earns a Good rating among the suvs we've scored. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 8.9/10, while Technology at 5.9/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional suv — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.

Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. We rate the Toyota 4Runner SL's reliability at 8.9/10 — among the strongest in our suv database, reflecting the nameplate's track record and recall history. On safety it earns 7.0/10: 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 7.0/10: enough power and composure for everyday needs, without the dynamics that distinguish the segment's driver-focused options. Technology scores 5.9/10 — 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 $42,861–$54,350, 12 MPG, seating 5, the Toyota 4Runner SL sits in the mid-market bracket of the suv segment. The value score of 6.2/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 9 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.

Bottom line: There's a case for the 2017 Toyota 4Runner SL, but it needs the right buyer. Its value and technology scores trail the class, and several higher-rated rivals sell for similar money — comparison-shop before committing.

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 →

How It Ranks Among SUVs

The 2017 Toyota 4Runner SL ranks #1611 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 34% of the segment. Its 7.2/10 overall score is 0.2 points below the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $42,861 starting price is about 19% above the segment's median of $36,079.

Rankings are recalculated as new vehicles and scores are added. See the full SUV ranking →

Which 4Runner SL Year Should You Buy?

Across the 4Runner SL model years we've scored, the 2017 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.

YearScoreStarting price (MSRP when new)
2025 7.6/10$55,883 Read review →
2024 7.5/10$54,255 Read review →
2023 7.5/10$52,626 Read review →
2022 7.4/10$50,999 Read review →
2021 7.3/10$49,371 Read review →
2020 7.3/10$47,743 Read review →
2019 7.3/10$46,116 Read review →
2018 7.2/10$44,488 Read review →
2017 (this review) 7.2/10$42,861
2016 7.1/10$41,233 Read review →
2015 7.1/10$39,605 Read review →

Pros & Cons — 2017 Toyota 4Runner SL

✓ What it does well

  • Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
  • Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well

✗ Where it falls short

  • Value-for-money is a weak point; comparable alternatives offer more for the price
  • Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
  • Infotainment and tech features feel dated compared to newer rivals in this segment
  • Fuel economy at 12 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly

More Toyota Reviews

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