Is the Toyota 2.5 L-I4 a good engine?

The Toyota 2.5 L I-4 engine is a popular and reliable powertrain option found in many Toyota vehicles. This engine has a reputation for delivering good fuel efficiency, strong performance, and long-lasting durability. Overall, it is generally considered a good engine choice for those seeking a balance of practicality and driving enjoyment.

Engine Specifications and Performance

The Toyota 2.5 L I-4 engine produces 185 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This provides ample power for everyday driving, with enough punch for merging, passing, and handling light towing duties. The engine is paired with either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission, both of which contribute to the engine's responsive and smooth power delivery.

Fuel Efficiency

One of the key strengths of the Toyota 2.5 L I-4 engine is its fuel efficiency. Depending on the specific vehicle model and transmission, this engine can achieve up to 29 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. This makes it a practical choice for those seeking a balance of power and efficiency.

Reliability and Durability

Toyota engines, including the 2.5 L I-4, are renowned for their reliability and long-term durability. With proper maintenance, this engine is known to last for well over 200,000 miles without major issues. The engine's robust design and use of high-quality components contribute to its reputation for dependability.

Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH)

The Toyota 2.5 L I-4 engine is also praised for its smooth and refined operation. It is relatively quiet, with minimal vibrations and harshness, providing a comfortable driving experience.

Conclusion

In summary, the Toyota 2.5 L I-4 engine is a solid choice for those seeking a practical, efficient, and reliable powertrain. Its combination of good performance, fuel efficiency, and long-term durability make it a popular option in many Toyota models. While it may not be the most exciting engine, it delivers a well-rounded driving experience that many consumers find appealing.

Which Camry to stay away from?

You should stay away from the 2007–2014 Toyota Camry, particularly the 2007–2011 models with the 2.4L 2AZ-FE engine due to oil consumption issues, and the 2012–2014 models that had transmission and AC problems. The 2018–2019 models also had reports of transmission issues with their 8-speed automatics.
 
Specific model years to avoid and why

• 2007–2011: These models, especially those with the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, are prone to excessive oil consumption due to a design flaw in the piston rings. This can lead to serious engine damage, like rod knock, if not maintained meticulously. 
• 2012–2014: These years experienced recurring problems with the automatic transmission, including slipping and torque converter issues. Owners also reported a musty smell from the AC system due to mold growth, and other issues with the AC compressor or heating. 
• 2018–2019: Some of these models had problems with the 8-speed automatic transmission, leading to funky shifting. 

What to consider instead
If you're looking for a reliable used Camry, focus on other model years like 2005–2006, 2015, or 2016–2017 models. You may also consider models from 2010 onwards, which had more reliable engines and safety features like standard stability control.

How long will a Toyota 2.5 engine last?

How Long Does a Toyota Engine Last? A Toyota engine is renowned for its durability, often lasting beyond 200,000 miles with proper care. Regular oil changes, using high-quality oil, and adhering to the manufacturer's maintenance schedule are critical to preserving engine health.

What is Toyota's most reliable 4-cylinder engine?

The most reliable Toyota 4-cylinder engines include the older 22RE and 4A-GE, and modern options like the A25A-FKS and the hybrid system's 2.5L engine. Older engines like the 22RE are praised for their durability and simplicity, while newer engines like the A25A-FKS benefit from modern engineering and have shown excellent long-term reliability. Toyota's hybrid 4-cylinders are also considered exceptionally reliable due to their robust design and accompanying ECVT transmission.
 
You can watch this video to learn about some of Toyota's most reliable engines: 56sSUV ZoneYouTube · Aug 13, 2025
Older engines

• 22RE (2.4L): A legendary engine known for its "over-engineered" and simple design, making it incredibly durable. It was the backbone of Toyota's truck and SUV lineup for many years. 
• 4A-GE (1.6L): This high-revving, naturally aspirated engine was known for its robust design and high-performance capabilities, appearing in models like the MR2 and Corolla. 

Modern engines

• A25A-FKS (2.5L): This naturally aspirated engine is part of the Dynamic Force engine family and is noted for its simplicity and low maintenance costs. It has demonstrated excellent reliability in modern vehicles. 
• T24A-FTS (2.4L Turbo): An evolution of the A25A, this turbocharged engine is also designed for efficiency and has shown no widespread issues, making it a reliable choice despite having slightly higher maintenance costs due to its turbo components. 
• Hybrid 2.5L engine: The hybrid system found in many modern Toyota and Lexus models combines a straightforward 2.5L 4-cylinder with electric motors. This system is considered one of the most reliable drivetrains available, often lasting well over 250,000 miles. 

This video explains the reliability of Toyota's hybrid engine system: 1mCar Help CornerYouTube · Jun 15, 2025

Is a 2.5 L 4 cylinder better than a V6?

A 2.5L four-cylinder engine is generally more fuel-efficient and cheaper to produce and maintain, while a V6 engine offers greater power, quicker acceleration, and better towing capacity. A modern turbocharged 2.5L four-cylinder can sometimes rival a V6 in performance, but the V6 is often smoother and more responsive, especially under heavy loads. 
You can watch this video to learn about the differences between V6 and four-cylinder engines: 1m4 Old School Car GuysYouTube · Jul 15, 2024
2.5L four-cylinder engine

• Pros:
  • Fuel economy: Typically gets better gas mileage, though a turbocharged 2.5L's efficiency can vary. 
  • Cost: Less expensive to buy and often cheaper to maintain due to fewer parts. 
  • Simplicity: Easier access to components like spark plugs for maintenance. 
  • Modern performance: Turbocharged versions can produce significant horsepower, sometimes matching older V6s. 
• Cons:
  • Power: Generally produces less horsepower and torque than a V6. 
  • Smoothness: Can feel less smooth and may produce more vibrations, especially at higher speeds. 
  • Towing: Lower towing capacity compared to a V6. 

This video explains the history and differences between V6 and four-cylinder engines: 55sScotty KilmerYouTube · Feb 9, 2018
V6 engine

• Pros:
  • Power and acceleration: Delivers more horsepower and torque for quicker acceleration and a more powerful driving experience. 
  • Towing and hauling: Better suited for towing heavy loads or driving in mountainous areas. 
  • Smoothness: Runs smoother, particularly at idle, due to more overlapping power strokes. 
• Cons:
  • Fuel economy: Less fuel-efficient than a four-cylinder. 
  • Cost: More expensive to manufacture and purchase. 
  • Maintenance: Can be more expensive and time-consuming to maintain, as some components may be harder to access. 

You can watch this video to see why a V6 might not be a good choice for everyone: 52sBudget MechanicYouTube · Nov 23, 2020
Which one is right for you?

• Choose a 2.5L four-cylinder if your priority is fuel efficiency, a lower purchase price, and a less expensive maintenance experience. 
• Choose a V6 if you need more power for towing, acceleration, or demanding driving conditions and are willing to sacrifice some fuel economy and pay potentially higher costs for maintenance and a higher initial price.