Here's what I would do:
If this WON'T be your daily driver, I'd get a 99-00 Limited or Highlander Edition (later called Sport Edition. You can tell it's a Highlander by the scoop hood. They also only come in Green or Black). With the Limited, you get the multi-mode 4WD, which allows you to put it in 4WD in dry pavement. You also get the option for a rear e-locker. The button is located to the left of the steering wheel. It will say R/R LOCK.
If this will be your daily driver:
I'd get a 01-02 4Runner. Doesn't really matter which trim. Limiteds come with leather and auto climate control, if that matters to you. Sport Editions come with a titanium interior and sport seats...and the hood scoop, of course.
These 4Runners also come with VSC/TRAC (skid and traction control) and multi-mode 4WD. It can be very useful if you're in snow, gravel or rain. BUT, it can also be a nuisance, too, but there is a simple mod to turn this off. No rear locker option for these years---you get a center diff lock. However you can always add an ARB unit later on, if you'd like.
Good luck on the hunt.