I didn't think so but occasionally come across posts that suggest there is such an animal. In the past I assumed it was a mistake but maybe this exists?

Thanks.

Yes they exist.

I don't know the numbers but I'm guessing there are the same amount of V6's and V8's out there. 4x4 and 2x4 of each.

Well that sucks, because the only thing keeping me from really wanting a 4WD 4th Gen was thinking I'd have to get the V8.

Yes. Many many many v6 4x4's out there. They are lovely, with the option for 4x2, 4x4 open center diff (AWD), and 4x4 locked center diff.

Yes I have one and have had it since new in 2004, very common. Plenty of power even when pulling my 20 foot boat.

Best 4WD system of 4runners

4wd system: V6 vs. V8

4WD confusion

4WD vs. 2WD

Does the v6 model have AWD like my v8??

Yes, they are tough to find. I specifically looked for a v6 because it has the option to go from 2wd to 4wd.

Yep, that’s what I have... V6 4x4, SR5 (no rear locker)

Center diff (Torsen type) allows operation in:
2WD
4WD High Unlocked (aka AWD)
4WD High Locked (true 4x4)
4WD Low Unlocked (aka AWD)
4WD Low Locked (true 4x4)

My model year (2004) does not have an option to turn off traction control in 2WD or 4WD unlocked (aka AWD mode), which means you need to lock the center diff to disable VSC. If you want to have some fun in 2WD mode, you need to perform a slight modification (cut wire & add switch) to disable it.

I’ve had the truck in our family since new… but if I was to start this from fresh today, I would be looking for the V8 variant for no other reason than it’s a V8.

That said, 200k+ miles later, this thing is still solid. My favorite thing about the V6 motor is that is uses a timing chain which is good for the life of the engine, and the location of the oil filter. Easy of maintenance including things like spark plug changes are very easy.

Given that you hail from LA, you may not find as many because a lot of the 4th gen 4Runners came in 2wd in the South and SouthWest. But in the rest of the country, the V6 in 4x4 is very common.

The real odd-ball is the 4th gen with a 4 banger.

I love my V6 4x4.

It is not AWD like the V8, you can run the V6 in 2wd or 4wd.

I find this question amusing, since in my area, V6 engines easily outnumber the V8's.
A 200 miles search from my zip for 4x4 06-09's shows 36 V6's and 4 V8's.

I was thinking the same thing… I can find a lot more V6 variants… cheap bastards =)

That said, the GX (at least in my area) is very easy to find, and for decent prices when compared to V8 4x4 4Runners. Personally, I would not rule this option out unless there was something specific about the 4Runner you wanted. Sure you would look like a suburban housewife (if you don't mod it), but it’s got grit. It’s still the hearty same body on frame 4x4 goodness. Even shares the same suspension parts making life easier when it comes to upgrades / modifications.

I spent 6 years in Pittsburgh. Love that city, may need to swing by for a "shopping" trip.

I think V6's are more common in my area than V8's. Mine is a Limited with a V6.

4HI with center diff unlocked is a lot like the AWD on V8s. Almost exactly the same...