Turbo Engine in the 6th Generation Toyota 4Runner: What We Know So Far

By Derrick •  Updated: 08/22/23 •  9 min read

If you’re a fan of the Toyota 4Runner, you might be wondering if the upcoming 6th generation model will have a turbo engine. There has been a lot of speculation about what kind of engine the new 4Runner will have, and many people are hoping for a turbocharged option. So, will the 6th generation Toyota 4Runner have a turbo engine?

According to recent reports, it looks like the answer is yes. The 2025 model year Toyota 4Runner is expected to feature a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which will likely be available with and without a hybrid system. This new engine is expected to be more efficient than the current V6 engine, which is good news for anyone looking to save on gas. Additionally, the turbocharger should provide a significant power boost, making the new 4Runner even more fun to drive.

Of course, until Toyota officially confirms the engine lineup for the new 4Runner, we won’t know what options will be available. However, based on the currently available information, it seems likely that the 6th generation Toyota 4Runner will indeed have a turbo engine option. Whether you’re a fan of the current V6 or excited about the prospect of a more efficient and powerful turbo engine, the new 4Runner is sure to be an impressive SUV.

The Evolution of the Toyota 4Runner

1st to 5th Generation

The Toyota 4Runner is a mid-size SUV that has been in production since 1984. The first-generation 4Runner was essentially a pickup truck with a fiberglass shell on the back. It was available in both two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations. The second-generation 4Runner, which debuted in 1989, was a more refined version of the original. It had a more aerodynamic body and was available with a V6 engine for the first time. The third-generation 4Runner, which was introduced in 1996, was larger and more luxurious than its predecessors. It was available with a V8 engine and had a more refined suspension system. The fourth-generation 4Runner, which debuted in 2003, was even larger and more luxurious than the third-generation model. It was available with a V8 engine and had a more sophisticated four-wheel drive system. The fifth-generation 4Runner, which debuted in 2009, was a more rugged version of the fourth-generation model. It was available with a V6 engine and had a more advanced four-wheel drive system.

Anticipated Changes in 6th Generation

The sixth-generation Toyota 4Runner is expected to debut in the near future. While details about the new model are scarce, it is rumored that the 4Runner will receive a major overhaul. One of the most significant changes is expected to be the introduction of a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine is expected to replace the current V6 engine, which has been in use for many years. The new engine is expected to be more fuel-efficient and powerful than the current V6. Additionally, the new 4Runner is expected to receive a more advanced suspension system and a more refined interior. It is also possible that the 4Runner will receive a hybrid powertrain option, similar to the one found in the Toyota RAV4. Overall, the sixth-generation Toyota 4Runner is expected to be a significant improvement over the current model, with a more powerful and fuel-efficient engine, more advanced suspension system, and a more refined interior.

The Possibility of a Turbo Engine in the 6th Generation

The 6th generation Toyota 4Runner is expected to have a turbo engine. According to some speculations, the new 4Runner will have a 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine is expected to produce respectable power and good torque numbers suitable for an SUV or mid-sized truck like the Tacoma.

The 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine is not new to Toyota. It is already being used in the 2022 Lexus NX. Therefore, it is not far-fetched to assume that Toyota will use this engine in the 6th generation 4Runner.

The new engine is expected to replace the 4-liter NA engine that was used in the previous generations of the 4Runner. The new engine will have a better fuel economy and will be less prone to engine strain in the long term.

The new engine is also expected to provide a smoother and more comfortable ride. The turbocharged engine will provide more power and torque at lower RPMs, making it easier to accelerate and pass other vehicles on the road.

In conclusion, the possibility of a turbo engine in the 6th generation Toyota 4Runner is high. With the expected benefits of better fuel economy, less engine strain, and a smoother ride, the new engine will be a welcome addition to the 4Runner lineup.

Pros and Cons of a Turbo Engine

When it comes to deciding whether or not a turbo engine is right for you, there are a few pros and cons to consider. Here are some of the most important factors to keep in mind:

Pros

  • Increased Power: One of the biggest advantages of a turbo engine is that it can produce more power than a naturally aspirated engine of the same size. This is because the turbocharger forces more air into the combustion chamber, allowing for more fuel to be burned and more power to be produced.
  • Improved Fuel Economy: Another benefit of a turbo engine is that it can often achieve better fuel economy than a larger, naturally aspirated engine. This is because the turbocharger allows the engine to operate more efficiently, using less fuel to produce the same amount of power.
  • Better Performance at Altitude: Turbo engines are also better suited for high-altitude driving, as they can compensate for the thinner air by forcing more air into the engine.

Cons

  • Increased Complexity: Turbo engines are more complex than naturally aspirated engines, with additional components like the turbocharger and intercooler. This can make them more expensive to repair and maintain.
  • Higher Risk of Engine Damage: Turbo engines also tend to operate at higher temperatures and pressures, which can increase the risk of engine damage if not properly maintained.
  • Turbo Lag: Finally, turbo engines can suffer from what’s known as “turbo lag,” which is a delay in throttle response as the turbocharger spools up. This can be especially noticeable at low RPMs and can make the engine feel less responsive.

Overall, whether or not a turbo engine is right for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. While they do offer some clear benefits in terms of power and fuel economy, they also come with some potential drawbacks that should be carefully considered.

Comparison with Competitor Models

When considering the possibility of a turbo engine in the 6th generation Toyota 4Runner, it’s important to take a look at the competition. Here’s a quick comparison of some popular midsize SUV models and their engine options:

ModelBase EngineOptional Engine(s)
Toyota 4Runner4.0L V6 (270 hp)N/A
Jeep Grand Cherokee3.6L V6 (295 hp)5.7L V8 (360 hp), 6.4L V8 (475 hp), 3.0L V6 diesel (240 hp)
Ford Explorer2.3L 4-cylinder turbo (300 hp)3.0L V6 turbo (365 hp), 3.3L V6 hybrid (318 hp)
Chevrolet Traverse3.6L V6 (310 hp)2.0L 4-cylinder turbo (257 hp)
Honda Passport3.5L V6 (280 hp)N/A

As you can see, the 4Runner’s base engine is in line with the competition, but it doesn’t offer any optional engines like some of the other models do. However, if Toyota were to introduce a turbo engine as an option, it would put the 4Runner on par with some of the other midsize SUVs in terms of power and performance.

It’s worth noting that some of the other models also offer hybrid options, which the 4Runner currently does not. If Toyota were to introduce a hybrid option in the 6th generation 4Runner, it would be a welcome addition for those who prioritize fuel efficiency.

Overall, while the 4Runner’s current engine lineup is competitive, the addition of a turbo engine or hybrid option would bring it up to speed with some of the other midsize SUV models on the market.

Customer Expectations

As the release date of the 6th generation Toyota 4Runner approaches, customers are eagerly anticipating the new features and improvements that the vehicle will offer. One of the most significant changes that customers are hoping for is the inclusion of a turbo engine.

Many customers are hoping that the 6th generation Toyota 4Runner will have a turbo engine option, as this would provide a significant boost in power and performance. A turbo engine would also improve fuel efficiency, which is a major concern for many customers.

In addition to a turbo engine, customers are also expecting the 6th generation Toyota 4Runner to offer improved technology features, such as advanced safety features, a more user-friendly infotainment system, and enhanced connectivity options. Customers are also hoping for a more spacious and comfortable interior, as well as improved off-road capabilities.

Overall, customers are looking for a 6th generation Toyota 4Runner that offers a perfect balance of power, performance, technology, and comfort. They are hoping that Toyota will deliver a vehicle that meets their needs and exceeds their expectations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there is a strong possibility that the 6th generation Toyota 4Runner will have a turbo engine. Toyota has been experimenting with turbocharged engines in their other models, such as the 2024 Tacoma and the Lexus NX 350, which makes it highly likely that the 4Runner will follow suit.

While there is no official confirmation from Toyota regarding the engine lineup for the 6th generation 4Runner, the search results suggest that the base engine could be a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an optional hybrid version.

The addition of a turbo engine would provide the 4Runner with more power and torque, making it a more capable off-road vehicle. However, it is important to note that a turbo engine can also increase the cost of the vehicle and may require more maintenance in the long run.

Ultimately, only time will tell what engine options Toyota will offer for the 6th generation 4Runner. But based on the available information, it seems likely that a turbo engine will be included in the lineup.

Derrick

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