When did Toyota stop making the 22R engine?
The 22R/22RE engine family was discontinued in 1995. These 2.4-liter four‑cylinder engines powered Toyota pickups and 4Runners for more than a decade, but were phased out as Toyota introduced newer powertrains across its truck lineup.
These engines, prized for durability and off‑road capability, originated in the early 1980s with carbureted versions and later transitioned to fuel-injected variants before being retired in the mid‑1990s. This article traces the timeline, the key variants, and what came after in Toyota’s powertrain lineup.
Overview of the 22R family
The 22R family refers to Toyota’s 2.4-liter inline-four engines used in light-duty trucks and SUVs. The original carbureted 22R was gradually complemented—and in many markets replaced—by the fuel-injected 22RE. Together, they powered a wide range of Toyota pickups and early 4Runners, earning a reputation for simple, rugged reliability and strong aftermarket support.
Production timeline
The following timeline highlights the main production phases of the 22R/22RE engines.
- Early to mid-1980s: The carbureted 22R engine appears in Toyota pickups and 4Runners as the workhorse powerplant.
- Mid to late 1980s: The fuel-injected 22RE variant becomes common, gradually supplanting the carbureted 22R in new vehicles.
- 1995: Toyota winds down and largely ends 22R/22RE production, marking the end of the 22R family’s widespread use in new vehicles.
In summary, the 22R/22RE engines were phased out by the mid-1990s, with 1995 serving as the commonly cited end of their production run. While some late-1990s units may exist in certain markets or used-vehicle inventories, the mainstream production ceased around 1995.
Legacy and what followed
As Toyota shifted toward newer engine families, the 22R/22RE engines were retired from new vehicles. Enthusiasts continue to maintain and modify existing 22R/22RE-powered Toyotas, and aftermarket support remains strong for parts, rebuilds, and swaps in off-road builds.
Summary
Final production of the 22R/22RE engine family occurred around 1995, ending a significant era for Toyota’s 2.4-liter engines in pickup trucks and 4Runners. The engines remain a memorable chapter in Toyota’s engineering history, with enduring popularity in the used and off-road communities.
