I can't believe I'm having such a damn difficult time deciding which to buy the V6 or the new V8. I know I said this before, but the last test drive I took, I noticed very little difference between the V6 and V8, but now with the new V8 being released I've read some threads that the only real difference in performance will be in the higher rpms, which is probably only about 3% of most everyday driving. I am definitely concerned about MPG, but it's really not that much of a difference between the two. I don't know how the new V8 will perform MPG-wise. I guess I'm looking for some guidance before purchasing this week. I havn't test drove the new V8 yet, but I plan to. I am hoping my decision will be easier after test driving the new V8. Any guidance from you all would be appreciated. Hope everyone is having a good holiday.
One more V6 vs V8 ?
- Thread starter arra
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Ask yourself this question. What other Toyota's and Lexus vehicles use the 4.7 V8 and 5 speed automatic transmission and which ones use the 4.0 V6 and 5 speed automatic transmission?
4.7 V8 with 5 speed auto - Lexus LX470 - Lexus GX470 - Toyota Landcruiser and its a option on the 4runner.
4.0 V6 with 5 speed auto - Standard on the 4runner and the new Tocoma trucks.
Now Toyota/Lexus thinks enough of the 4.7 V8 to put it in a $70K Lexus and you can have this same engine in your $30K+ 4runner.
I can't see how this is a hard decision?? Also go to www.bobistheoilguy.com web site and see what these guys say about the Toyota 4.7 V8 (they say it is one of the best engines they have ever seen tested for oil analysis results) Which means it is one of the best made engines on the market.
This should not be a tough decision
JMHO
4.7 V8 with 5 speed auto - Lexus LX470 - Lexus GX470 - Toyota Landcruiser and its a option on the 4runner.
4.0 V6 with 5 speed auto - Standard on the 4runner and the new Tocoma trucks.
Now Toyota/Lexus thinks enough of the 4.7 V8 to put it in a $70K Lexus and you can have this same engine in your $30K+ 4runner.
I can't see how this is a hard decision?? Also go to www.bobistheoilguy.com web site and see what these guys say about the Toyota 4.7 V8 (they say it is one of the best engines they have ever seen tested for oil analysis results) Which means it is one of the best made engines on the market.
This should not be a tough decision
JMHO
Colemanfu
New member
I went for the v-6. It's nothing like the Ford 4.0 I had so I went in looking for a v-8 4x4. I got a few speeding tickets back in the 90's and after a test driving a v-8 I thought it would cost me more money from a heavy right foot. I am pleased v-6 power and with 19 mpg daily driving (thats actual no on the sticker). I wonder what the MPG diff is when you stand on the v-8 around town? I drive very flat roads down here in FL, another factor for the v-6. It's no Viper but yet to have another car/truck/suv blow me away at a red light.
Ask your self how fast do you need your SUV to go?
Do you tow?
Carry heavy loads?
Gas $ not an issue?
Some will only get a rig with a v-8? I feel I made a very responible decision - and that does not happern often. No regrets with the v-6.
Ask your self how fast do you need your SUV to go?
Do you tow?
Carry heavy loads?
Gas $ not an issue?
Some will only get a rig with a v-8? I feel I made a very responible decision - and that does not happern often. No regrets with the v-6.
Guys don't take my post the wrong way. The V6 is a good engine and after a few more years in production will, I am sure have a proven record like the 4.7 V8 
: At that time arra you might even want to consider buying a 4runner with the V6. 
PS - arra if you are considering the V6 for the MPG you might want to look at a Hilander or even the Rav4, great vehicles and much better MPG then the 4runner. Good luck and let us know what you buy.
: At that time arra you might even want to consider buying a 4runner with the V6. PS - arra if you are considering the V6 for the MPG you might want to look at a Hilander or even the Rav4, great vehicles and much better MPG then the 4runner. Good luck and let us know what you buy.
2005 SPT V6
New member
I test drove both v8 and v6 both had plenty of power. My reason for picking the V6 is that I did not want AWD and wanted the better MPG. If you plan to tow anything I would probally go with the V8. If you have no plans towing, then go with a V6. You have to test drive both and figure this one on your own. The V8 has been out longer, but haven't heard anything bad with the V6 except on the Fuel rail problems they had when the motor first came out, But was resolved quickly.
Goodluck!
Goodluck!
Hitman
New member
Pitbull said:
The Highlander looks like a soccer mom's car.... and the Rav4 is too tiny to take seriously.
If I had to have an SUV with better fuel economy than a 4Runner, I'd probably go with the Honda Pilot. Even though it has smallish tires, it still has somewhat of an aggressive design to it....
Fro-Runner
New member
I'm listening to all of this wish-wash about the V-6!
I opted for the 4.0L V-6 245 hp/282 ft lbs torque in my 2004 Toyota 4-runner. My reasons were that I didn't tow a boat nor do I go rock crawling, 4-wheel adventuring or towing a camper trailer on the weekends. I wanted the option of being able to utilize the 2wd (selector mode) in the V6 model for better gas mileage. I will still have the 4wd hi (selector) for adverse weather conditions or (4wd Lo-range) for just mud digging with confidence across a muddy interstate median when in a stopped traffic jam.
Now for the biggest boost of confidence from me to you about the "all aluminum" 4.0L V-6 engine. I have a aluminum 1.8L 4-banger in my work vehicle (a 1984 Pony Sunbird) with 280,000+ miles on the thing. I replaced the cataylatic converter this year and the car smogged out perfect. The engine has made all kinds of noises from the first day I drove it off the new car lot. It sounds as if the valves are going to fly out some days and yet....on other days it purrs like a sleeping kitten. But.....the engine has NEVER failed me (except for the timing belt breaking 3 times); otherwise it goes on and on just like an everyready energizer bunny's battery.
(P.S.)-Most of the engine parts were made overseas along with the 5-spd tranny in the car. I believe its a gretag (German) or something like that. It was the last year one could get the foreign-made 1.8L w/5-spd tranny. GM deleted this option on the 1985 models and went to the American made cast iron (POS) 2.0L w/USA produced 4-spd tranny. You can find several of these in your local auto dismantling yards. The darn things overheated, blew head gaskets and crack heads all the time.
I say all of the above to remind you V6 owners that an all aluminum engine is going to be noisy. Aluminum in not as good of an insulator as a cast iron block. Add in the fact that today's engine's valves sit near the top of the engine and closer to the outside wall. Take in the "HIGH" RPM/Torque output of today's engines and you have to give it the benefit of doubt to some noiseness. Toyota says this engine produces 245hp but I believe it will produce much more. Japan has a limitation of 270 hp for engines produced there. Now that Nissian has upped the ante with the new Pathfinder engine to the max 270 hp; then look for Toyota to rechip this engine to produce more horses. I'd expect that this same engine will be tweak (air intake/injectors,etc) to produce 275-280 in the near future. Remember folks.....this 4.0L V-6 is the platform engine for the world's leading seller midsize truck "Toyota Tacoma"! I don't believe the Toyota Corporation would produce a "BS" of an engine with the future of this truck sales hanging on a shabby powerplant. This engine is good and Toyota has produced it to be that way. Forget the consumer reports analysis about the V-6! When Toyota decided to use it as the "Upgrade" powerplant in it's top selling truck; then this decision cemented the fact that I made a "GOOD" choice in buying the 4.0L V-6 to meet my needs.
I hope this put to rest some of your fears that this all aluminum engine will not last. As I've mention above, I've had the 4-banger for over 20 years and it's still going strong. I drive it approx. 20 mls one way to work on So Cal highways at 70-75mph every day. The only major engine repair I've done on this 4 banger was to replace the head gasket at 200k miles. Just be sure to change your oil every 3k-4k miles and use pennzoil. (hehehe)
**Final note** Hey 4.7L V-8 owners-- I'd bet my 4.0L V-6 lasts just as long as yours does! :driving: :dancin:
I opted for the 4.0L V-6 245 hp/282 ft lbs torque in my 2004 Toyota 4-runner. My reasons were that I didn't tow a boat nor do I go rock crawling, 4-wheel adventuring or towing a camper trailer on the weekends. I wanted the option of being able to utilize the 2wd (selector mode) in the V6 model for better gas mileage. I will still have the 4wd hi (selector) for adverse weather conditions or (4wd Lo-range) for just mud digging with confidence across a muddy interstate median when in a stopped traffic jam.
Now for the biggest boost of confidence from me to you about the "all aluminum" 4.0L V-6 engine. I have a aluminum 1.8L 4-banger in my work vehicle (a 1984 Pony Sunbird) with 280,000+ miles on the thing. I replaced the cataylatic converter this year and the car smogged out perfect. The engine has made all kinds of noises from the first day I drove it off the new car lot. It sounds as if the valves are going to fly out some days and yet....on other days it purrs like a sleeping kitten. But.....the engine has NEVER failed me (except for the timing belt breaking 3 times); otherwise it goes on and on just like an everyready energizer bunny's battery.
(P.S.)-Most of the engine parts were made overseas along with the 5-spd tranny in the car. I believe its a gretag (German) or something like that. It was the last year one could get the foreign-made 1.8L w/5-spd tranny. GM deleted this option on the 1985 models and went to the American made cast iron (POS) 2.0L w/USA produced 4-spd tranny. You can find several of these in your local auto dismantling yards. The darn things overheated, blew head gaskets and crack heads all the time.
I say all of the above to remind you V6 owners that an all aluminum engine is going to be noisy. Aluminum in not as good of an insulator as a cast iron block. Add in the fact that today's engine's valves sit near the top of the engine and closer to the outside wall. Take in the "HIGH" RPM/Torque output of today's engines and you have to give it the benefit of doubt to some noiseness. Toyota says this engine produces 245hp but I believe it will produce much more. Japan has a limitation of 270 hp for engines produced there. Now that Nissian has upped the ante with the new Pathfinder engine to the max 270 hp; then look for Toyota to rechip this engine to produce more horses. I'd expect that this same engine will be tweak (air intake/injectors,etc) to produce 275-280 in the near future. Remember folks.....this 4.0L V-6 is the platform engine for the world's leading seller midsize truck "Toyota Tacoma"! I don't believe the Toyota Corporation would produce a "BS" of an engine with the future of this truck sales hanging on a shabby powerplant. This engine is good and Toyota has produced it to be that way. Forget the consumer reports analysis about the V-6! When Toyota decided to use it as the "Upgrade" powerplant in it's top selling truck; then this decision cemented the fact that I made a "GOOD" choice in buying the 4.0L V-6 to meet my needs.
I hope this put to rest some of your fears that this all aluminum engine will not last. As I've mention above, I've had the 4-banger for over 20 years and it's still going strong. I drive it approx. 20 mls one way to work on So Cal highways at 70-75mph every day. The only major engine repair I've done on this 4 banger was to replace the head gasket at 200k miles. Just be sure to change your oil every 3k-4k miles and use pennzoil. (hehehe)
**Final note** Hey 4.7L V-8 owners-- I'd bet my 4.0L V-6 lasts just as long as yours does! :driving: :dancin:
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It all boils down to what you can afford now and for the life of your ownership experience. I can afford a v-8 and have the philosophy that there is no replacement for displacement. For my day to day needs a V-6 would do the trick but I like a bigger engine if I can afford one.
sharp4runr
New member
You won't go wrong with either engine, that is for sure. Toyota doesn't make crap so no worries about making a "bad" decision. It all boils down to what YOU think you need.
The V6 is a great all around engine. It has adequate power and torque. Its capable of taking you around the malls or towing a 5000lb load. V6 drivetrain will also allow you to switch from 2WD or 4WD and that is a great gas saving feature.
The Full Time 4WD guys will tell you it so much better to have it on all the time because you won't have time to switch to 4WD in an emergency. Well thats good and all, but this truck also has ATRAC and VSC that will help out in hairy situations and how much MORE effective is 4WD in an emergency? Depends on the emergency and the situation so it may be a total wash. I run 2WD 95% of the time and I only switch when it snows, rains heavily or I'm taking a jaunt in the woods.
MPG wise, the V6 is good for at least 2MPG more than the V8. Not so much right, but in the long run that does add up. Also, you start off with more money in your pocket because the V8 is at least a 1200-1500 more than the V6.
Reliability wise, the V6 was marred when it initially came out with a fuel rail TSB. Toyota has corrected that in all subsequent motors, but CR still gaves it a poorer rating. Toyota made both engines and they don't make crap. This has only been in its 3rd year of production so long term reliability still has to be tested but I don't have any qualms about buying a new engine as it was designed by Toyota.
Maintenance wise, both engines should be equal. Maintenance costs should be a bit cheaper for the V6 because it usually is cheaper than a V8. 2 less spark plugs, probably less expensive wires etc. Also V6 has a timing chain instead of a belt. That means never having to replace it, and you know that usually costs a couple hundred dollars to get done.
As far as the V8, I don't have anything against it. I test drove it when purchasing and I didn't see any significant difference. I"m a city boy and do most of my driving on the roads. I don't fool myself into thinking I need more than what I got. Some guys just want the V8 to have it, nothing wrong in that. If that is what you truly want, get it or you'll never be 100% happy with your 30K+ truck. And that is what it boils down to right?
Good luck with your purchase and know that either way you go, its a good decision.
The V6 is a great all around engine. It has adequate power and torque. Its capable of taking you around the malls or towing a 5000lb load. V6 drivetrain will also allow you to switch from 2WD or 4WD and that is a great gas saving feature.
The Full Time 4WD guys will tell you it so much better to have it on all the time because you won't have time to switch to 4WD in an emergency. Well thats good and all, but this truck also has ATRAC and VSC that will help out in hairy situations and how much MORE effective is 4WD in an emergency? Depends on the emergency and the situation so it may be a total wash. I run 2WD 95% of the time and I only switch when it snows, rains heavily or I'm taking a jaunt in the woods.
MPG wise, the V6 is good for at least 2MPG more than the V8. Not so much right, but in the long run that does add up. Also, you start off with more money in your pocket because the V8 is at least a 1200-1500 more than the V6.
Reliability wise, the V6 was marred when it initially came out with a fuel rail TSB. Toyota has corrected that in all subsequent motors, but CR still gaves it a poorer rating. Toyota made both engines and they don't make crap. This has only been in its 3rd year of production so long term reliability still has to be tested but I don't have any qualms about buying a new engine as it was designed by Toyota.
Maintenance wise, both engines should be equal. Maintenance costs should be a bit cheaper for the V6 because it usually is cheaper than a V8. 2 less spark plugs, probably less expensive wires etc. Also V6 has a timing chain instead of a belt. That means never having to replace it, and you know that usually costs a couple hundred dollars to get done.
As far as the V8, I don't have anything against it. I test drove it when purchasing and I didn't see any significant difference. I"m a city boy and do most of my driving on the roads. I don't fool myself into thinking I need more than what I got. Some guys just want the V8 to have it, nothing wrong in that. If that is what you truly want, get it or you'll never be 100% happy with your 30K+ truck. And that is what it boils down to right?
Good luck with your purchase and know that either way you go, its a good decision.
kglueck
New member
sharp4runr said:
Well said...I agree completely!
As a former 2003 2wd (albeit v8 also) driver, I can offer a (possibly) different point of view. Now, with the caveat that we don't get much snow down here in central texas (and I wasn't blessed with snow the other day either)...we do get a TON of rain and mud and other nasty situations. combine the rain with oil on the road and you get slick conditions.
In my 2wd v8 model, I was usually always feeling the traction control kick in at some point when it was wet and slick. going around a turn or just starting out. actually, there was also a place near my church when I'd go through that intersection (there was a large dip) it would also kick in. well, since I got the 4wd model (also v8 w/ fulltime 4wd)...I have yet to feel the traction control kick in on wet roads or bumpy conditions. I haven't gone out of my way to attempt to remedy that, but... What I'm saying is that in 4wd mode, I've found the 4runner to be VERY solid. I like the fact that it's on all the time when I need it. it drives differently in 4wd than in 2wd...and I think that's a plus. I wasn't sure at first how I'd like it, but my choice wasn't much of a choice, I had to have the v8 to deal with some of the equipment toting needs I have...
So, in my experience and opinion, the fulltime 4wd is not a bad thing. I do take a hit of about 1mpg difference from my 2wd, but I haven't really done the math or have reliable data yet for my 4wd.
Don't get me wrong, the 4runner in a 2wd configuration or mode is VERY capable. in my 2wd one, that traction control allowed me to get out of situations that a regular 2wd vehicle wouldn't have.
What it all boils down to is get what you want. If you don't well...you won't be happy. I really liked my 2wd model...but I really wanted the 4wd model...I sacrificed and regretted not getting it...so I went back and fixed that after almost 2 years. don't misread that...I didn't regret having the 2wd 4runner...I LOVED it...I just regretted not getting 4wd
as for v6 vs v8? well, choose the one that fits you better. For me, I didn't really have the choice...I needed the low end torque that comes from the extra two cylinders...
Hope this helps...
Kev
Bluto
New member
I found this on another forum...
On the new V8 "Oil jets spray the bottoms of the pistons,4 per cylinder. Better lubrication and cooling...like on some of Toyotas turbo motors.
The V8 now has a plastic intake manifold.
Also has ACIS (Acoustic Control Induction System).The runner length changes according to engine speed and load, which has already been used in Lexus VVTi V8s for a few years now."
Is any of this used on the V6?
On the new V8 "Oil jets spray the bottoms of the pistons,4 per cylinder. Better lubrication and cooling...like on some of Toyotas turbo motors.
The V8 now has a plastic intake manifold.
Also has ACIS (Acoustic Control Induction System).The runner length changes according to engine speed and load, which has already been used in Lexus VVTi V8s for a few years now."
Is any of this used on the V6?
Hitman
New member
gogriz91 said:
I don't think the quesiton is affordibility at all.... I chose the V6 but could have easily afforded the V8. In fact, I could have chosen a more expensive vehicle than the 4Runner period.
As many others have said already, the choices are made for various reasons.... I don't think too many 4Runner owners made their choice based only on affordability.
That said, doesn't it make sense to buy something that suits your needs? That's the very reason that I'm typing this message on a $1500 PC instead of one that costs more money with stuff I really don't need....
WELLLLL, I'm leaning toward the V6. I haven't test driven the new V8 yet, I'm planning on doing that over the weekend -- hopefull Friday, and make up my mind. I know, I know Friday is the last day of the year and would be a good day to purchase the vehicle. That is what I am planning on right now, purchase on Friday unless something unexpected happenes. The main reasons for leaning toward the V6 is I do almost no towing, occassionally my son's 18 foot boat, no big deal, I do mostly city driving and I like the option of either 2 or 4 wheel drive. But damn, if that V8 is smooth and quick, quiet and knocks the V6 outta the water, that's what I'm picking up. Thanks to all of you who have posted to my questions. Not only have you been helpful, I have a feeling you are all good Americans, even if you are driving a Japanese made vehicle. (That's a topic for another thread) By the way, the best price I have been able to lock on to is an SR5 V6 moonroof, 17 inch alloy wheels, spoiler and the usual options for $28,459. As I said before, I'm in the Chicago area. If anyone knows of a place that will beat that price, let me know. Thanks again to all.
Nice Marmot
New member
I was asking myself the same thing last week -- I've settled on replacing my current car with a 4Runner, but was unsure whether to go V6 or V8.
I decided on V6.
Like you, my towing needs are very light; my parents have a 17' boat and a 1300 lbs. pop-up camper (which is pretty old, but if it's replaced, will be replaced with nothing larger than 2200 lbs.). So, easy towing, and then only on the flat roads of Florida.
I'm not concerned about noise. My current vehicle is a Camaro Z28, and it's loud as hell, both from engine noise and wind noise. The V6 should get the same or better gas mileage, and take standard instead of premium.
Like you said, it's nice to have the 2WD option available, since down here driving conditions are usually very nice. But being able to put it and leave it in 4Hi will be nice during rainy season (hopefully we don't see as many hurricanes next year) or when driving up north during winter for ski trips, and 4Lo will be nice for muddy campgrounds.
So I'm ordering a V6 4Runner in the next couple weeks. Going with an SR5, since, and this is pretty much the only thing about Toyota that's annoyed me, it doesn't seem possible to get a Sport with side-curtain airbags in the Southeast region.
I decided on V6.
Like you, my towing needs are very light; my parents have a 17' boat and a 1300 lbs. pop-up camper (which is pretty old, but if it's replaced, will be replaced with nothing larger than 2200 lbs.). So, easy towing, and then only on the flat roads of Florida.
I'm not concerned about noise. My current vehicle is a Camaro Z28, and it's loud as hell, both from engine noise and wind noise. The V6 should get the same or better gas mileage, and take standard instead of premium.
Like you said, it's nice to have the 2WD option available, since down here driving conditions are usually very nice. But being able to put it and leave it in 4Hi will be nice during rainy season (hopefully we don't see as many hurricanes next year) or when driving up north during winter for ski trips, and 4Lo will be nice for muddy campgrounds.
So I'm ordering a V6 4Runner in the next couple weeks. Going with an SR5, since, and this is pretty much the only thing about Toyota that's annoyed me, it doesn't seem possible to get a Sport with side-curtain airbags in the Southeast region.
Hitman said:
Sure it is. If you can't afford to own it up front and over the life of your ownership experience, then it's not in the picture.
Every 4Runner owner made their choice in part based on affordability. Either they got a bargain, or they settled for what they could afford and their available choices, most seem to feel like they got a bargain.
If you could have gotten the exact same PC you're typing away on now for less, you would have bought it...right?
