New guy looking for info

[tracerprix]

I am considering buying a 4th gen 4 runner. I see they offer 2 engines. Which one is prefered? V6 or the V8? Differences in durability? Any years to avoid or are they all good? Also what are the differences between the 3 models? Thanks!

 

[blaniac22]

From what I've seen - both are very reliable.

V6 has served me well. It has enough power, but I don't do any heavy towing and tend to take long drives so the couple extra MPG's helps in the long run. If I go off the pavement at all it's on something that doesn't amount to much less than a dirt road.

V8 has a timing belt, V6 has a chain. So if you go with the V8 you have a little extra cost at the 90K mark I believe - others here can speak better to that than I can.

But, if you want/need that extra power and MPG's aren't that big of a deal the V8 seems to be solid as well.

Bottom line - You really can't go wrong with either one - it really amounts to your personal preference and how you intend to use the truck.

 

[tracerprix]

Thanks for the info. I guess I just need to drive both and make my decision then.

 

[tracerprix]

Is there any models/years that offer a AUX input for the radio?

 

[ridefast]

I think the aux input started in 06, also the vvt-i updated engine started in 06.

If you plan on towing more than 5k go with the v8

 

[tracerprix]

Thanks, I actually found the AUX input info after i posted it. I appreciate it!

 

[chaz]

this is where u can find out what each year & model has: Toyota 4Runner History

 

[BigEd]

I think the aux input started in 06, also the vvt-i updated engine started in 06.

VVTi started in 2005

 

[tracerprix]

What is vvti?

 

[zerowkul98]

Variable valve timing w/ intellegence.

Basically it allows the engine to be more MPG-efficient when needed, or open up and be more performance-oriented when you need it.

 

[tracerprix]

Sounds fancy!

 

[Zuke]

VVT-i started on V8 in the 2005 models. The V6 got it in 2006.

My thoughts
V6 Pros -
2wd mode on transfer case.
Timing chain.
Easy oil changes.

V6 Cons -
30k miles spark plugs.

V8 Pros-
Nicer suspension/ride.
Lots of torque.
100k mile spark plugs.

V8 Cons-
Timing belt (replace at 90k miles)

 

[stanleybb50]

VVT-i started on V8 in the 2005 models. The V6 got it in 2006.

My thoughts
V6 Pros -
2wd mode on transfer case.
Timing chain.
Easy oil changes.

V6 Cons -
30k miles spark plugs.

V8 Pros-
Nicer suspension/ride.
Lots of torque.
100k mile spark plugs.

V8 Cons-
Timing belt (replace at 90k miles)

Only correction is the v6 had vvt the whole way through the 4th gen ('03 - '09).

The v6 just went from the 4 spd auto to 5 spd in '05.


- Sent via Tapatalk for Android

 

[Nuke]

I've owned 6 Toyotas; 3 of those were 4Runners. All 3 4Runners were V6's and my current '08 tows my 17' glass bassboat just fine, although if I had to do it over again I'd get the V8 for the extra power. But again, the V6 is nothing to sneeze at.

As far as rugged, I can beat my Toyotas twice as hard as any domestic I've owned and have fewer problems. As far as maintainability, I've probably spent less on maintenance on all 6 of my Toyotas than I did on any two of my domestic vehicles.

I can't speak much on longevity because I usually sell them by the time they reach a little over 200,000 miles and by then, they're only in great condition instead of showroom condition.

:welcome:

 

[tracerprix]

I appreciate all the responses. I actually just looked at the 4Runner and the Sequoia yesterday. I found that the 4Runner is too small for my needs. The Sequoia better fits my needs. Thanks!