I just traded my Tacoma for a 4runner recently. So far I really like it. I have a 98 with about 160k on it. I got lucky and got a limited model with the factory rear e-locker.
I would recommend against the 4 banger, it's very underpowered for the weight of the vehicle.
One of the known issues with the 4runners is the rear coils sagging. The '99 model year has taller springs and supposedly sags less then other years. If you can find one, the '99 model seems like the best overall year.
The 96-98 years have really lousy cupholders, not really a big deal, just annoying.
Keep an eye out for the "strawberry milkshake." You can google that.
All said, they are great vehicles. I look forward to having mine for a long time.