2.0 turbo = 260hp / 269 lb ft

[hrothgar02]

This article is about the new Kia Sportage SX but the article got me thinking that if forced induction produces this type of numbers, will the 6th gen 4Runner offer the same drivetrain option (as CAFE tightens it's noose on engine options)? The Ford Explorer (simliar size and weight to the 4Runner) will have the 2.0 Ecotec Turbo as an option in the very near future.

First Drive: 2011 Kia Sportage SX — Autoblog

The only downside is the towing capacity (which was downgraded to 2000lbs on the Explorer with the 4 banger). The upside will be the mileage (21/25 MPG in AWD for the Sportage).

I know the 5th gen 4 banger was a big FAIL. Do you think it will be different if a turbo 4 produces these type of numbers? Would you buy one?

 

[dekeman]

Yes, lots of discussion about this, and you're dead right. Turbos are key and direct injection solves lots of the old turbo problems of heat, durability etc.

V6 turbo solves towing issue, just as Ford has done with EcoBoost F-150 - tows 11,300 lbs, gets respectable economy.

Toyota, are you listening?

 

[JohnsD90]

You will see alot more smaller forced induction and direction injection engines in the next 10 years. They produce the same if not more power numbers as their Naturally aspriated V6 and V8 brothers. I know VW is heavily investing in this. Look at the GTI and Golf R/R32. GTI for the past 10 years started as a big VR6 with no turbo, it is now down to a 4 banger turbo, the R is the same thing when from a 3.2l V6 now down to a high output 4 cylinder turbo with more power than the V6.

And with the A6 now they have the 3.0T and not the 3.2l NA V6l. These are just some examples.

I would love to see smaller capacity higher output engines in SUV's and trucks. I will dread the day they stop putting V8's in muscle cars.