When contrasting the V6 and V8 versions of the 4th generation 4runner, I believe this final point is sometimes missed. When determining which model to purchase, specs, ratings, and performance testing all have a place and are highly helpful.
Having personally driven both models, I can tell you that there are some things that just don’t translate on paper. They are an element of the driving experience that can be felt and heard but are not likely to be detected by tests.
In This Article...
Sound
A V6 and a V8 4runner’s sound really differ from one another. While they have their reasonably quiet factory exhausts, it might not be as noticeable, but when they are modified, the difference is night and day.
It doesn’t necessary sound horrible to install a cat back exhaust on a V6, but it won’t exactly win you any admirers. However, a V8 4runner with upgraded exhaust will emit a loud growl that many unaware onlookers would never anticipate coming from a little Toyota SUV. The 2UZ engine has a lovely sound and gives you the impression that you are operating a premium vehicle.
The V6 is an engine that is notably louder, aside from the exhaust note. They are renowned for producing a stronger ticking and tapping sound than the V8.
Smoothness
All 4th generation 4runners felt supple and well-made thanks to Toyota’s excellent design. However, when it moves through the rpm range, the V8 is smoother than the V6. This is sometimes cited as the sole justification for Toyota’s exclusive use of the V8 in Lexus cars.
Amount of effort required
The amount of effort required to get the 4runner rolling is another difference between the V6 and V8 drives that you’ll notice. The V8 does this with easily and seems to never be working very hard. In contrast to the V8, the V6 needs more than just a little tap on the accelerator to accelerate swiftly.
An engine that doesn’t have to work hard is more likely to live longer, according to those who are concerned about reliability. However, there’s no reason to think that either of these Toyotas’ engines is more dependable than the other; they’re both excellent in that regard.
The V6 4runner can have trouble navigating steep ascents when it is overburdened with passengers and extra weight. The V8 won’t even perspire in the same scenario. Both will accomplish the job, but the V8 will do it more quietly, with less vibration, and at a lower RPM and temperature.
Rarity and future value
A V6 engine has been available in every iteration of 4runner. However, V8s are only available in vehicles from 2003 to 2009. The 4th Gen is the only one of the 5 generations to have a V8 engine. Furthermore, Toyota will never again install a V8 engine in the 4runner given the way the car market seems to be moving.
They are highly unique as a result. If the collector car market has taught us anything, it is that special editions of well-known cars will always stand out and be in high demand. The V8 4runner is an innocent-looking small hot rod that might someday be valuable as a collection.
The popularity of the V8 4runners is already becoming apparent. There aren’t many items offered for sale at any given moment on the used market, as you can see. The asking prices for the ones you do find are frequently rather exorbitant. Is this an indication that the values have peaked and will soon start to rise? All we can do is wait and see.
Again, the V6 models are in perfect condition. They were all popular and had a V6; it’s just that they mix in with all the previous 4runner generations and all the other platforms, such the Tacoma and FJ Cruiser.
Check out this video for a far more skewed viewpoint on the subject:
Is the Toyota 4.7 V8 an effective motor?
The 2UZ-FE 4.7 V8 engine debuted in 1998 and was produced until 2011. It’s a fantastic engine that provides an admirable blend of power, lifespan, and dependability. The Toyota V8 is obviously not strong in terms of fuel efficiency, though. Furthermore, no engine is flawless, and that also holds true for this one.
The Toyota 2UZ-FE has a lot of problems, mostly with cracked exhaust manifolds. On most models, keep an eye out for these issues to arise, but earlier models are more vulnerable to the manifolds shattering. Since it is an interference engine, replacing the timing belt is a crucial maintenance task. Water pumps may also experience leaks. It is an easy component to change in addition to the timing belt.
The Toyota 2UZ-FE 4.7L engine offers outstanding reliability all around. It has a sturdy, long-lasting design. If you keep up with maintenance, there’s a good chance the 2UZ-FE will reward you with a long, dependable, and satisfying life.
Considering a more recent, potent option? View our guide to Toyota 5.7 V8 Common Issues.
A v4 Toyota 4Runner?
A 4.0-liter V-6 engine with 270 horsepower and a five-speed automatic transmission power every 4Runner. The outmoded powertrain offers unimpressive performance, with the most recent model we tested needing 7.7 seconds to get from 0 to 60 mph. It is available with rear-wheel drive and either full- or part-time four-wheel-drive systems. The automatic’s sluggish reflexes undoubtedly don’t maximize the engine’s erratic performance, and downshifts frequently call for strong right-foot inputs to propel the 4Runner forward. Nevertheless, compared to the more cumbersome Wrangler, the Toyota manages to feel more composed on pavement. The SUV’s substantial ground clearance was on display during our time behind the wheel of the off-road-oriented variant, and its body-on-frame structure was backed by a soft suspension that handled a variety of terrain rather well. Although the small weight and imprecise steering of the 4Runner betray any sense of sportiness, they are suitable for stumbling down trails and navigating parking spaces. Even though the Toyota feels dated while it is in motion, its performance is on par with that of its more contemporary rivals, such as the V-6 Dodge Durango. The Toyota also outperforms the Ford Edge and Wrangler in terms of towing ability, with a 5000-pound capacity, while falling short of the more potent Durango’s 8700-pound limit. This is due to the Toyota’s tough structure and torque-rich engine.
V6 or V8 4Runner: Which is better?
Politics, religion, and the question of whether the fourth-generation 4runner’s V6 or V8 engine is superior are the three topics that are frequently too divisive to discuss with others. If you have ever spent any time on the 4runner forums online, that is at least how it appears.
The truth is that both the 4.0 V6 and 4.7 V8 engines deliver excellent performance and dependability. While the V8 is smoother and gives more performance, the V6 is more fuel-efficient and needs a little less upkeep. Both are excellent choices; it just depends on how you intend to use your 4Runner.
There are many supporters of both the 1GR V6 and the 2UZ V8, and the majority of them aren’t persuaded that one is equally as good. The truth is that both engines are capable of handling every activity that an SUV might be used for, whether it be commuting, hauling, or off-roading. Both of them are poorer and better at different areas.
I’ll do my best to be as impartial and as informative as I can given that I myself possess a V8. It’s important to note that I’ve personally driven both the V6 and V8 4Runners.
Look at the chart below to see each motor’s advantages before we compare these two fantastic motors in more detail:
Let’s now examine each engine in more detail to see how it stacks up in various scenarios.
The greatest Toyota V8 engine.
The Toyota Tundra’s engine is said to be its best feature by Consumer Reports. The 5.7-liter V8 in the 2020 Tundra generates 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. The transmission is a six-speed one. One of the fastest full-size pickups is the Tundra, which can accelerate from 0 to 60 MPG in 6.7 seconds.
Both two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive options are available, and it boasts exceptional towing and off-road capabilities. The tow/haul transmission modes, a hitch, and trailer wiring are all standard on the Tundra yet they are all options on many other vehicles. It has a 10,200-pound towing capacity.
The two-wheel-drive Tundra is estimated to have a combined fuel efficiency of 15 MPG, or 13 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway. Although Car and Driver points out that it’s the worst in its class, Consumer Reports describes that rating as “still competitive.”
Consumer Reports observes that the rear wheels can spin readily with such a potent engine. The 4.6-liter V8 was the Tundra’s standard second V8 option in previous years. The 5.7-liter V8 engine is now standard across all grades.
How durable is a V8 4Runner?
You might get 300,000 miles out of a Toyota 4Runner. Some drivers desire more, even though a Toyota 4Runner with 200,000 miles on it is amazing.
What does SR5 on a Toyota mean?
Sport Rally 5 speed is referred to as SR5. Sport, RE (EFI) engine family, and 5 refers to the five-speed transmission in the acronym SR5. The aforementioned response is not entirely accurate, but it is mostly accurate. The term “SR5” typically refers to a specific Toyota trim level with a more aggressive appearance, stronger suspension, and a large range of available options.
RAV4 or 4Runner, which one is superior?
Overall, the Toyota 4Runner provides more space and power, while the Toyota RAV4 gets better gas mileage while maintaining high performance levels. After reading the comparison between the Toyota 4Runner and RAV4 for 2021, get in touch with Jim Hudson Toyota to schedule a test drive of each vehicle.
What exactly does TRD mean?
Describe TRD. Toyota Racing Development, or TRD, is the company’s own tuning facility. Its primary duty is to create performance accessories and parts for Toyota vehicles all around the world.