What To Know
- In the early days of the 4Runner, from 1984 to 1995, the SUV was available with a variety of engine options, including V8s.
- In a surprising move, Toyota reintroduced the V8 engine to the 4Runner for the 2010 model year.
- While the V8 engine may have offered more power, the V6 engine in the current 4Runner provides several advantages.
For over three decades, the Toyota 4Runner has been a beloved SUV, renowned for its ruggedness and off-road capabilities. However, one question that has persisted throughout its history is: do Toyota 4Runners come with V8 engines?
Historical Perspective: The Era of V8 Dominance
In the early days of the 4Runner, from 1984 to 1995, the SUV was available with a variety of engine options, including V8s. The first-generation 4Runner featured a 2.4-liter inline-four and a 2.8-liter V6 as standard, but it could also be equipped with a potent 3.0-liter V8. This V8 engine produced an impressive 150 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, giving the 4Runner ample power for tackling challenging terrains.
The Shift to Smaller Engines: Fuel Efficiency Takes Center Stage
As fuel efficiency became increasingly important, Toyota began phasing out V8 engines from the 4Runner lineup. The second-generation 4Runner, produced from 1996 to 2002, offered only V6 engines. This trend continued with the third and fourth generations of the SUV, which were equipped with V6 engines as standard.
The Return of the V8: A Brief Revival
In a surprising move, Toyota reintroduced the V8 engine to the 4Runner for the 2010 model year. This fifth-generation 4Runner featured a 4.7-liter V8 that produced 260 horsepower and 306 lb-ft of torque. The V8 engine was available on the top-of-the-line Limited trim level and provided the 4Runner with impressive towing and off-road capabilities.
The Demise of the V8: A Focus on Efficiency and Reliability
Despite its impressive performance, the V8 engine was discontinued from the 4Runner lineup after the 2019 model year. Toyota cited fuel efficiency and reliability as the primary reasons for this decision. The 4.7-liter V8 was replaced by a more fuel-efficient 4.0-liter V6 engine, which offered comparable performance while consuming less fuel.
The Current Engine Lineup: A Balanced Approach
The current-generation Toyota 4Runner, produced since 2020, is available with a single engine option: a 4.0-liter V6. This engine produces 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, providing the 4Runner with ample power for both on-road and off-road adventures. The 4.0-liter V6 is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission and is available in both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations.
Advantages of the V6 Engine in the 4Runner
While the V8 engine may have offered more power, the V6 engine in the current 4Runner provides several advantages:
- Fuel efficiency: The V6 engine consumes less fuel than the V8, resulting in lower operating costs.
- Reliability: V6 engines are generally more reliable than V8 engines, reducing the risk of breakdowns and costly repairs.
- Compact size: The V6 engine is more compact than the V8, allowing for better packaging and increased interior space.
The Bottom Line: A Modern SUV with a Proven Powertrain
In conclusion, Toyota 4Runners currently do not come with V8 engines. While V8 engines were once available in earlier generations of the SUV, Toyota has opted for more fuel-efficient and reliable V6 engines in recent years. The current 4.0-liter V6 engine provides ample power and performance for both on-road and off-road adventures, making the 4Runner a capable and versatile SUV.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Why did Toyota discontinue the V8 engine in the 4Runner?
A: Toyota discontinued the V8 engine in the 4Runner due to concerns about fuel efficiency and reliability.
Q: What engine is currently available in the Toyota 4Runner?
A: The current Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine.
Q: How much horsepower does the V6 engine in the 4Runner produce?
A: The 4.0-liter V6 engine in the 4Runner produces 270 horsepower.
Q: What is the towing capacity of the current Toyota 4Runner?
A: The towing capacity of the current Toyota 4Runner varies depending on the configuration, but it can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Q: Is the Toyota 4Runner a good choice for off-roading?
A: Yes, the Toyota 4Runner is a capable off-road SUV, thanks to its rugged construction, available four-wheel drive system, and high ground clearance.