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Is a Toyota 4Runner 4 cylinder or 6 cylinder?

Today, the 4Runner in the United States is powered by a six-cylinder engine, specifically a 4.0-liter V6 in US-spec models. Four-cylinder variants exist in older generations and in some international markets, but not in the current US lineup.

The question of engine cylinder count for the Toyota 4Runner varies by model year and market. The vehicle has a long history of offering both four- and six-cylinder options, with US models focusing on V6 power for a balance of torque, towing ability, and reliability. Here is a closer look at how engine choices have evolved and what buyers can expect today.

Engine options through the years

The following overview outlines the general trend in engine choices across generations and markets, illustrating how cylinder counts shifted over time.

Early generations offered both four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines, giving buyers a choice based on power needs and budget.

Over the years, the lineup largely shifted toward V6 power in the United States, with the four-cylinder option largely disappearing from US-spec models.

In some international markets or older model years, four-cylinder variants remained available, reflecting different emission standards and consumer demand.

In short, the engine options have varied by era and region, but current US-spec 4Runners use a V6 exclusively.

Current status in the US and other markets

For buyers shopping today, the US-spec Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a 4.0-liter V6. There is no current four-cylinder option offered by Toyota for the US market, though older models and those sold in other countries sometimes used four-cylinder variants.

US market: 4.0-liter V6 standard; about 270 horsepower with strong low-end torque; no factory four-cylinder option in recent years.

International markets or older generations: Four-cylinder options existed, though these are not representative of the current US lineup.

Bottom line: if you’re buying new in the United States, expect a six-cylinder configuration; cylinder count varies in older or international models.

Summary

The Toyota 4Runner has a long engine history that includes both four-cylinder and six-cylinder configurations. In today’s US market, it is a six-cylinder SUV powered by a 4.0-liter V6, delivering solid off-road capability and towing performance. For those seeking a four-cylinder variant, that option is primarily found in older models or in markets outside the United States.

What is the most common problem with the Toyota 4Runner?

The most common problems with Toyota 4Runners are rust on the frame and body, especially on models from 2003-2009, and issues with the infotainment system and electronics, particularly in newer models. Other frequent complaints include paint peeling on certain colors and model years, brake issues, and various interior/exterior trim problems.
Rust and frame issues

Frame rust: Models from 2003-2009 are particularly susceptible to excessive frame rust due to a defective undercarriage.
Body rust: Rust can also be a problem with the body, especially around the rear hatch emblem, which has been reported in newer models.

Electronics and infotainment

Infotainment: Newer 4Runners have reported issues with the infotainment system, including infotainment screens not recognizing Apple CarPlay and Apple CarPlay compatibility issues with USB-C phones.
Other electronics: Problems like the radio locking up and intermittent electronic issues have been reported in some model years.

Paint and body hardware

Peeling paint: Certain colors, like Blizzard Pearl and Super White on 2010-2015 models, are prone to peeling paint and received an extended warranty for this issue.
Body trim: Loose trim, especially on the tailgate, and paint damage from trim rubbing against the body have been reported.

Mechanical and suspension

Brakes: Owners have reported issues with fast-wearing brake pads and rotors, as well as problems with the master cylinder and calipers, which can lead to brake failure.
Suspension: The X-REAS suspension system, found on some models, can be expensive to replace when the shocks and struts need servicing.
Engine and drivetrain: While generally reliable, preventative maintenance is crucial. Some reports mention transmission issues like rough shifting.

This video discusses the most common problems with the 5th generation Toyota 4Runner: 41sMaxTheCarGuyYouTube · Jan 7, 2023

What Toyota has a 6 cylinder engine?

The Toyota Sequoia and Tundra are the primary Toyota models in the US that currently have a 6-cylinder engine, both featuring a twin-turbo V6 hybrid. While some older or specific trim levels of other models like the Camry, 4Runner, and Highlander once offered V6 engines, these have been replaced in the newest generations with turbocharged four-cylinder or hybrid four-cylinder powertrains.
Current 6-cylinder models

Toyota Sequoia: Comes equipped with the i-FORCE MAX 3.5L twin-turbo V6 hybrid engine.
Toyota Tundra: Also uses the i-FORCE MAX 3.5L twin-turbo V6 hybrid engine.

Models with previous 6-cylinder engines

Toyota Camry: The V6 engine option was discontinued for the 2025 model year, with the lineup becoming all-hybrid.
Toyota Highlander: The standard V6 was replaced with a 2.4L turbo four-cylinder engine starting with the 2023 model year.
Toyota 4Runner: The V6 engine was replaced with a new engine for the 2025 model year.
Toyota Sienna: The V6 was replaced with a 2.5L hybrid engine beginning in 2021.

Does the 4Runner come with a V6?

No, a new 2025 Toyota 4Runner is not a V6; it has a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The previous 2024 and older models used a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter V6 engine.
You can watch this video to learn about the 2025 Toyota 4Runner's engine options: 1mBrian MakseYouTube · May 31, 2025
Current (2025) engine

Standard: A 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder i-FORCE engine.
Hybrid: Higher trims (like the TRD Pro and Trail Hunter) have an i-FORCE MAX hybrid version of the 2.4-liter turbo engine.

Previous (2024 and older) engine

Standard: A 4.0-liter V6 engine.
Discontinued: The V6 was replaced with the new four-cylinder for the 2025 model year.

Is 4Runner 4 or 6 cylinder?

All sixth-generation 4Runners will be equipped with Toyota's popular 2.4- liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The standard i- Force variant produces 278 horsepower and torque.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.