Which Toyotas have the 22R engine?
The 22R engine family is most closely associated with mid-1980s to mid-1990s Toyota pickups and 4x4s, notably the Toyota Pickup/Hilux and the 4Runner, as well as related HiLux Surf variants in some markets. In everyday terms, if you’re hunting for a classic 2.4-liter Toyota inline-four, you’ll most often find it under those body styles rather than in today’s modern lineup.
Background on the 22R engine
The 22R is part of Toyota’s R-series family and was produced in carbureted form as the 22R and later in fuel-injected form as the 22R-E. The carbureted version powered earlier builds, while the 22R-E introduced electronic fuel injection for improved drivability and emissions. This engine powered a small but enduring portion of Toyota’s lineup during a period when 4x4 pickups and rugged SUVs were a core market.
Models that used the 22R and 22R-E
The following Toyotas are the most widely documented recipients of the 22R/22R-E powerplant. The list highlights the body styles and markets where the engine became well known.
- Toyota Pickup / Hilux (and related double-cab variants) — carbureted 22R and later 22R-E EFI options
- Toyota 4Runner (first generation and early models built on the pickup platform) — offered with 22R and 22R-E engines
- HiLux Surf (the Japanese-market variant of the 4Runner/Surf lineage) — used 22R/22R-E in select years and regions
In practice, the 22R family is most strongly associated with the classic mid-1980s to mid-1990s Toyota pickups and 4x4s, including related regional variants like the HiLux Surf. Modern Toyotas do not use this engine family.
Key differences: 22R vs 22R-E
To understand how the powerplant evolved, here are the main practical distinctions you’re likely to encounter when comparing the carbureted 22R with the fuel-injected 22R-E. This helps explain why some restorations prefer one variant over the other and what to expect if you’re buying a used example.
- Fuel delivery and control — 22R is carbureted; 22R-E uses electronic fuel injection for more precise air-fuel management
- Power and drivability — 22R-E generally offers improved throttle response, smoother low-end torque, and better part-throttle performance due to EFI
- Emissions and efficiency — 22R-E is compatible with modern emissions standards and typically achieves better fuel economy
- Maintenance considerations — carburetors (22R) can be simpler to work on but require frequent tuning; EFI (22R-E) relies on sensors and electronics, which may be more complex but more consistent in older age with fewer tuning adjustments
- Production window — the carbureted 22R appeared earlier; the 22R-E became common in later years as EFI technology rolled out across markets
Overall, the 22R-E is the more modern and widely supported variant in terms of emissions compliance and drivability, while the 22R carbureted version remains a classic for enthusiasts restoring early trucks and SUVs.
Maintenance and legacy
Owners of 22R-powered Toyotas should pay attention to common wear items associated with older inline-fours, including head gaskets, timing components, and cooling systems. Fuel-injection variants (22R-E) may require sensor and wiring checks, while carbureted engines need regular carb adjustments and fuel-system maintenance. Because these engines are now part of automotive history, parts availability can vary by market, but specialty suppliers and used parts networks remain active for enthusiasts and restorers.
Summary
The 22R family is best known for powering Toyota’s midsize pickups and 4x4s from the 1980s into the mid-1990s, especially the Toyota Pickup/Hilux and the 4Runner, with EFI 22R-E variants appearing in later years. If you’re seeking one, focus on those body styles and be mindful of carbureted versus fuel-injected differences when evaluating a prospective classic.
What engine is in a 1992 Toyota pickup?
And today I am driving a 1992 Toyota pickup up front is a 2.4 liter inline four and down below is a five-speed manual transmission.
What was the last year Toyota used the 22R engine?
22R
| Code | Power | Years |
|---|---|---|
| 22R | 72 kW (97 hp; 98 PS) at 4,800 rpm | 1981–1990 |
Which old Toyota truck is most sought after?
The FJ40 left the United States in 1983 (with only 300 trucks imported), but stayed on another year in Canada, with continuation trucks built in Brazil until 2001. Today, the FJ40 is a highly sought-after classic Toyota truck whose values hover just above the $90,000 mark for mint-condition early models.
What is the best Toyota engine ever built?
The 10 Best Toyota Engines Of All Time
- #1. The 2ZZ-GE. The 2ZZ-GE is a 1.8L inline 4-cylinder engine in production since 1999.
- #2. The 2JZ-GTE. The 2JZ-GTE is the Toyota Supra's famous turbocharged inline 6-cylinder.
- #3. The 22R-E.
- #4. 1LR-GUE V10.
- #5. 4U-GSE.
- #6. 1GR-FE And 2GR-FE.
- #7. 1GD-FTV.
- #8. The T Engine Series.
