GX460 Motor in our 5th Gen?

[philsey]

I'll go out on a limb and say it's never going to happen. V6s are becoming so efficient and powerful now that the 2 extra cylinders aren't even worth it (although 8s are generally torquier.) The times, they are a-changing.
.

This.

Look at Volvo for example. They are committed to 2.0L 4 cyl across the product line.

Their XC90 has a Turbocharged & Supercharged 2.0L inline 4 which yields 316 hp and 295 ft-lbs. Not shabby.

I read yesterday that Toyota will release a Turbo 4 cyl Camry. Writing's on the wall, boys and girls. Smaller displacement, forced induction.

http://www.autoblog.com/2015/07/27/toyota-camry-getting-turbo/

 

[Flexus]

The power of the GX460 is tempting. And it's only $12,000 more than a T4R TE. The tow hitch is $600 extra. It weighs 400# more, probably due to the bigger engine and rear axle, the mandatory 3rd row seat and some of that interior fluff.

The higher torque occurs at a much lower RPM (3500 vs. 4700), which is better for power at low range in 4WD. The transfer case is more like the T4R Limited, with a TORSEN limited-slip center differential with electronic differential lock. From that I gather it can lock the front and rear axles but I can't tell if it's got a locking rear differential (not likely). It's got full time 4WD hi and low.

My friend who has a GX460 bought a 2 or 3 year old used model. I see the 2015 GX460 have KDSS so not sure why he needed to add a sway bar disconnect? He did rip off his running boards on a tough trail and had to rebuild them with a rock slider he made from tube. He's still got the running boards in about the same place.

Not sure if you can even remove the running boards and low body fender/mud flap behind the front wheel? But if you could, who sells a rock slider for the GX460?

The wheels are 18x7.5 so the tire choices may be more limited than the 17x7.5 wheels on the T4R.

If we could put that V8 and 6-speed in front of the Trail Edition transfer case, now that would be a fun car. But at what cost $$$? Not sure if you'd need a bigger rear axle for the 6500 # towing capacity?

I'll take the T4R TE.

I actually have a GX470 (120 series not the 150). I bought it used and couldn't find a Sport with KDSS. Dropped in an ARB locker, put in a 120 series Toytec lift, bent up some sliders in my garage and came up with a creative swaybar disconnect. The 3rd 4Runner and GX470 also share the same frame like the 4th Gen's do. Variations of the 120 series include the SWB Prado which is also the FJC. Details here https://plus.google.com/+LarsDennert/posts

Since I tow regularly so the V8 comes in handy but the 4.0 V6 tows really well too. For offroading only a 100hp 4 cyl is needed.

Can't wait 'til your 4Runner gets off the boat, buddy.

 

[BlackWorksInc]

Isn't there some speculation that the next gen 4Runner will have a V8? I haven't done much research but thought that was the case.

Wishful thinking. Toyota is downsizing their engines if anything and looking to forced induction in the future, they may keep one or two V8's for Lexus and the Tundra/Sequoia/Landcruiser. But the GX has been replaced with essentially a slightly larger Highlander crossover and the Tacoma is going to DS-4 tech in a smaller Atkinson's Cycle GDI engine. The NX is Lexus/Toyota's big North American venture into forced induction and they will most likely continue with that path according to conversations I have had with some Toyota guys at the regional hq.

 

[borfoo3]

I seriously doubt it. I would expect a smaller v6 with similar power numbers.

My money's on a massaged version of the 3.5 L 2GR-FKS w/ 6spd auto just like the drive-train on the 2016 Tacoma. Has better fuel economy than our 4.0 L and an extra gear to maximize usage of its ponies.. That is, if the 4Runner survives close to as we know it today and doesn't...

 

[DesertCanyons]

Lexus GX470

I actually have a GX470 (120 series not the 150). I bought it used and couldn't find a Sport with KDSS. Dropped in an ARB locker, put in a 120 series Toytec lift, bent up some sliders in my garage and came up with a creative swaybar disconnect. The 3rd 4Runner and GX470 also share the same frame like the 4th Gen's do. Variations of the 120 series include the SWB Prado which is also the FJC. Details here https://plus.google.com/+LarsDennert/posts

Since I tow regularly so the V8 comes in handy but the 4.0 V6 tows really well too. For offroading only a 100hp 4 cyl is needed.

Can't wait 'til your 4Runner gets off the boat, buddy.

[MENTION=63362]Flexus[/MENTION]
Thanks Lars,
That's a great set of build photos. I can't wait to go 4 wheeling with you and the Gold Coast Cruisers. You guys know how to get through the really tough stuff.
I know the new 4Runner will have more power than my current Jeep GC.
Not going to try to stuff a V8 into the 4Runner. Buying the current Lexus GX460 would cost less, is ready to go and carries a full warranty.
Dave

 

[Flexus]

LOL I've had to many toyotas in my life. I mistyped. The 4th Gen and the GX470 are the same platform. The 3rd Gen 90 series is the Hilux Surf Prado I think.

 

[JeremyB]

My money's on a massaged version of the 3.5 L 2GR-FKS w/ 6spd auto just like the drive-train on the 2016 Tacoma. Has better fuel economy than our 4.0 L and an extra gear to maximize usage of its ponies..

Listen to this guy.