What engines do 4Runners have?

The current Toyota 4Runner in the U.S. market runs on a 4.0-liter V6, and historically the model line has used a mix of gasoline four-cylinders and V6s, with diesel options offered in some regions. In short: today’s 4Runner is powered by a 4.0L V6; older generations offered additional engines in various markets.

Current engine in the latest 4Runner

As of the 2024–2025 model years, the Toyota 4Runner sold in North America is equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine (Toyota code 1GR-FE). It delivers about 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission and a part-time four-wheel-drive system with a low-range transfer case on most trims.

• 4.0-liter V6 (1GR-FE) — roughly 270 hp / 278 lb-ft; 5-speed automatic; part-time 4WD with low range

This configuration has remained the backbone of the 4Runner across current-generation trims, including the Trail, SR5, and TRD variants, with the TRD models emphasizing off-road capability.

Engine history by region and generation

Across its history, the 4Runner has used a variety of engines depending on generation and market. In North America, the model has predominantly used gasoline V6 powerplants, while other regions have seen inline-fours and diesel options. The following sections summarize representative examples from different eras and places.

North America

In the United States and Canada, the 4Runner has relied on gasoline V6 power since at least the late 1990s and into the current generation. The most notable engines include a 3.4-liter V6 in earlier generations and, beginning with the current generation, a 4.0-liter V6. Diesel options have not been offered as a factory fit for the U.S. market.

• 3.4-liter V6 (5VZ-FE) in some late-1990s/early-2000s models


• 4.0-liter V6 (1GR-FE) in the current generation (2009–present)

For U.S. buyers, the modern 4Runner’s engine choice has been stable in this generation, with the focus shifting to off-road tuning and variants rather than powertrain diversification.

Worldwide markets

Outside North America, Toyota has offered a broader mix of engines, including inline-four gasoline options and diesel variants in certain regions. Diesel models, where offered, typically used turbocharged inline-sixes or four-cylinders, balancing torque and efficiency for global demand.

• Diesel options in selected markets (examples include turbo-diesel inline-sixes and four-cylinder diesels)


• Gasoline four-cylinder and V6 options in other regions, depending on local regulations and market demand

These regional differences reflect Toyota’s approach to meeting diverse off-road and utility needs worldwide, even as the U.S. lineup has remained focused on the 4.0-liter V6 for the modern 4Runner.

Summary

The 4Runner’s powertrain story centers on a core gasoline V6 engine in the modern era, specifically the 4.0-liter 1GR-FE in the current U.S. lineup. Across generations and regions, Toyota has experimented with various gasoline engines and diesel options to suit local markets, but today’s 4Runner is defined by its robust 4.0-liter V6 and off-road-focused design. If you’re shopping for a 4Runner, you’ll likely encounter the same V6 powerplant across most trims, with regional variants offering different emissions and efficiency configurations.

Which 4Runner has a V8 engine?

The 4th generation Toyota 4Runner (from model years 2003-2009) is the only generation with a V8 engine option. It came equipped with a 4.7-liter 2UZ-FE V8, which was also used in other Toyota and Lexus SUVs and trucks.
 

• Model Years: The V8 was available in the 4th generation 4Runner, which was produced from 2003 to 2009. 
• Engine: The engine was the 2UZ-FE 4.7-liter V8. 
• Performance: The V8 provided more torque for towing and off-roading compared to the V6, especially at lower RPMs. 
• Upgrades: The V8 engine was updated in 2005 to include Variable Valve Timing (VVT-i), which increased its horsepower and torque. 

What engines are available in the 4Runner?

The all-new 4Runner's standard models (SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Sport Premium, TRD Off-Road, TRD Off-Road Premium and Limited grades) boast an i-FORCE turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft. of torque paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Which year 4Runner to avoid?

You should avoid the 2003–2005 4Runners due to serious frame rust, head gasket issues, and dashboard cracking. Other years to consider avoiding are the 2001–2002 models for safety concerns and rust, and the 2015 model for infotainment and brake problems. 
2003–2005 (Fourth Generation) 

• Severe frame rust: This is a major issue, with many owners reporting the frame is irreparable. 
• Head gasket failure: V6 models, in particular, are prone to head gasket issues, which can be a costly repair. 
• Dashboard cracking: Owners have reported the dashboard cracking. 
• Other issues: Includes reports of faulty anti-lock brake systems (ABS), air injection pump failures, and check engine light problems. 

2001–2002 (Third Generation) 

• Safety rating: These models have low crash test scores, particularly in rear impacts. 
• Body rust: Prone to rust, making them unreliable for some families. 
• Off-road limitations: Manual transmission and locking rear differentials were eliminated during these years. 

2015 (Fifth Generation) 

• Infotainment issues: This model is known for an unreliable infotainment system that freezes, restarts, and has Bluetooth connection problems. 
• Brake problems: Owners have reported warped brake rotors. 
• Steering complaints: There are more NHTSA complaints about steering problems compared to other fifth-gen models. 
• Airbag defect: The 2015 is the only fifth-generation model with reported airbag non-deployment issues, which is a significant safety concern. 

Do 4Runners have V6 engines?

No, the newest 2025 model year 4Runner does not have a V6 engine; the V6 was replaced by a new turbocharged 4-cylinder and hybrid options. However, all previous models (2010–2024) featured a standard 4.0L V6 engine.
 
This video discusses the performance of the new 4-cylinder engine in the 2025 4Runner: 1mRaiti's RidesYouTube · Jan 28, 2025
2025 4Runner

• Engine: The V6 has been discontinued for the 2025 model year.
• New options: The new 4Runner comes with either a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine or a hybrid option that combines the turbocharged 4-cylinder with an electric motor. 

Previous generations (up to 2024)

• Engine: All 4Runner models from 2010 to 2024 were equipped with a 4.0L V6 engine. 
• Performance: This engine produced 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. 

This video discusses why some people are disappointed about the V6 being discontinued: 41sBrian MakseYouTube · May 31, 2025