4th Gen 4Runner

[cjgolfer7]

Hi I'm pretty new to the site, but follow it a lot. I'm looking into getting a 4th gen 4Runner. It will be my daily driver as well as adventure vehicle. Also would like to tow a little, nothin crazy.

What are the pros and cons of the V6 vs V8.
I'd like to get s V8 but don't know much about the vehicles and trying to find a new vehicle soon.

Anything else I should look at / think about / take into consideration?

Any and all help would be appreciated.
Thanks in advance.

 

[TwoTrack]

The biggest difference to me would be the 4wd systems. The v8's had basically AWD with low range, while the v6 had a conventional 4wd system. Saying that, I've never heard any complaints from v8 owners, and some people prefer the AWD.

This should explain the 4wd systems: http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/667-4wd-system-versus-awd-system.html

I have the 4.7 v8 in my Tundra and the only critical maintenance issue is the timing belt. It's a 90k maintenance item that isn't optional. It does get pretty bad gas mileage, but the power is awesome. I'd buy it again.

 

[cjgolfer7]

Exactly the kind of info I'm looking for. Thanks. I'm not sure I want to go full time 4wd. There isn't much difference in power it seems like. Little more torque with the V8. Most I'd ever want to tow would be an old willys or CJ. I guess it comes down to part time or all time. Definitely some good thought will go into it.

 

[ssmd]

They have the same Torsen 4x4 system. Both 4wd systems can be driven as an AWD without the center diff locked So you can drive on dry roads.

The v6 gives you the option of 2wd.

With the diff lock button on, you get 4x4 for off road use only otherwise it will bind on turns.

v8 models have issues with leaky exhaust manifolds and as stated above the t-belt and water pump needs service around 90k.

I hear some v6 models have gasket issues. Some 4runners have issues with the transfer case not engaging and diff lock not working if they haven't been used in a long time.

There are other minor issues with the 4Runner but I think it's great overall.

If you decide on a 4th gen, I'd recommend years 08-09. This is when they added the ability to turn off traction control.

Toyota's site can give you service history on any Toyota serviced at a Toyota dealership with the vin number.

Properly set up they both tow well. the v8 is rated a bit higher and has a weight distributing hitch.

Happy hunting.

 

[Martinjmpr]

AFAIK the V6 head gasket problems were all in the 03-05 models.

 

[Ryanmb21]

The biggest difference to me would be the 4wd systems. The v8's had basically AWD with low range, while the v6 had a conventional 4wd system...

This is wrong, the 4wd drive system in the v6 is not a conventional system. It has a torsen center diff which can be unlocked. So basicially it is the same 4wd system as the v8, with the choice to run 2wd if you want. It is okay to use AWD on road as much as you want.

So the only difference in 4wd systems between the v6 and the v8 is that v8 does not allow you use 2wd.

Also, the 2006+ models have rounded wheel wells that look much better in my opinion.