1GR-FE takes 0w-20 oil?

[BTO]

We just picked up a 2018 4Runner TRD Off Road. It has the same 1GR-FE engine my '07 Tacoma has. Well, it's an improved version with dual variable valves.

My question is why does the 1GR-FE in my Tacoma take 5w-30 and the 1GR-FE in the new 4Runner take 0w-20? The heads might be a little different but isn't it the same block? Actually, I run 0w-40 in the Tacoma and it loves it. The thing runs better than brand new.

 

[wfo9]

We just picked up a 2018 4Runner TRD Off Road. It has the same 1GR-FE engine my '07 Tacoma has. Well, it's an improved version with dual variable valves.

My question is why does the 1GR-FE in my Tacoma take 5w-30 and the 1GR-FE in the new 4Runner take 0w-20? The heads might be a little different but isn't it the same block? Actually, I run 0w-40 in the Tacoma and it loves it. The thing runs better than brand new.

Basic cast of the bock is the same, but there are some improvements with the water jackets. Also different cylinder liners. They did more cross hatching for improved oil retention. So the oil can be lower viscosity and improve MPG. Crank is also a little different with improved balance weights.

People seem to think the dual vvti motor has different rings which is the reason for the change in oil spec, but that is not my understanding at all. They just added a coating to the rings for durability. I'm pretty sure it is the cross hatching and cooling change that changed the oil requirements.

Another thing you will notice is iridium plugs that last 100k