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Narrowing my choices down, it's either the Sport V6 or the V8. After reading through the numerous e-mails on the topic, I guess it comes down to personal choice. However, is there any supporting info that suggests one is better (more reliable) then the other?
If I were looking for the best bang for the buck and something that will, hopefully, be trouble free, which would you choose? (I don’t foresee any large/heavy objects being towed)
Now it is down to the engine, and there are plenty of pros & cons for both the V6 & V8. And I’m not sure I can really justify needing a V8, although AWD might be nice to have, but I know I won't be towing anything. So, it almost seems like a good idea to go with the V6, save the $1250 plus the slightly better MPG, 160# less engine weight etc.
Question, when I go to build my 4Runner SE on Toyota's build your own web site, I have no choice but to get the sunroof/JBL-stereo $1825 package. Can you get a SE without the sunroof? I’d like to save the 900 bucks as I can live with out one, plus I've there have been a few people with some sunroof issues.
I read your first line. I'm not blind either. But if you would have completed your quote it ends in "but the v6 is a bit faster". Did you forget what you wrote? And your title says "V6 is faster"
So which is it Mr ahlzheimer, faster or dead even?
I also said "Actually they are about dead even"
because they are so close. You can't say they are dead even because they aren't.
If it's important that a vehicle is .5 faster/slower than it's worth noting the V6 is a bit faster because it is.
I don't care how fast they are but it is an interesting footnote about the two engines. As for flaming, I'm not. You seem pretty sensitive about the whole thing so maybe you're a bit upset you own the V8 now, I don't know but it doesn't matter and I'm not addressing that anymore.
For jgriff,
Although they call the V6 4wd system "4x4" and V8 4wd "AWD"-- they are indeed the same system and usage is identical. You can use the V6's 4wd full-time if you wish.
The only difference is that the V6 gives you the option of switching to RWD.
Yeah if you choose to believe THAT and only THAT unregulated, non track test. And even at that those numbers are statistically the same.
"If it's important that a vehicle is .5 faster/slower than it's worth noting the V6 is a bit faster because it is."
You can't keep stuff straight. You stats said it is .004 sec. faster. Hello, that is 4 thousandths of a second. Also other tests have shown the V8 to be faster. But I'm sure you will keep using these "facts" to make yourself feel better.
My original post showed no bias one way or the other. Who's the sensitive one??
And why would I be upset about owning the V8? It is the superior engine.
"I don't know but it doesn't matter and I'm not addressing that anymore."
Ha ha that is funny. You taking your ball home now.
Assuming that you did purely highway driving, you could travel an additional 46 miles with the V6 powered 4Runner (assming it is in 4x2 mode). Of course, part of the fuel economy advantate of the V6 is due to the V8 being an full time AWD vehicle while the V6 allows you to drive in 2wd (rwd), which is handy.
Nearly every auto related internet site and many auto magazines state that the V8 powered 4Runner accelerates better than the V6, but it isn't much of a difference.
Here is a fair review from New Car Test Drive - "The V8 delivers better performance than the V6, but we didn't notice a huge gain. The difference will be noticed primarily after hooking up a trailer."
Here is another comment from FamilyCar.com - "The net effect of a larger engine producing power at a lower RPM is that real world performance seems more effortless with the engine seemingly loafing while you feel the surge of power pushing you back into the seat. Good enough for a 0 to 60 time of 7.9 seconds. The V6 had plenty of power but, unlike the V8, you can hear the engine working harder to deliver that power."
In general, for most applications, you won't see either 4Runner outpacing the other. If you don't plan to tow (V8 7000lbs vs V6 5000lbs), then you can buy either 4Runner and be happy. Welcome to the club. I would recommend the X-REAS suspension for improved handling though.
First, I would not give up my V8/5-speed 4Runner for the V6/4-speed version even if you paid off the loan on my truck and gave me a V6 4Runner as a gift.
In my OPINION, the V6/4-speed is a respectable power train; but compared with the V8 I find that:
(1) the V6 produces significantly more noise, e.g., engine whining, panting, and "roaring" sounds;
(2) the V6 produces more vibrational sensations;
(3) Even though the V6 is rated as having more "horsepower" than the V8, it lacks the V8's prodigious TORQUE POWER (which is really the REAL measure of power). The V8's greater torque power allows it to turn the wheels very powerfully at lower RPMs, and with much greater immunity to engine LUGGING at lower RPMs. By contrast, the V6's extra "horsepower" is only available within a narrower *RPM* power envelope, and this seems to require that the V6/4-speed must shift or "step" more rapidly, abruptly, and more noisily through its forward gears, especially during more aggressive throttle commands. At freeway speeds, once you hit 4th gear in the V6/4-speed, you have no higher overdrive gear to call upon if you want to go faster on level ground. Instead, you have only more RPMs to call upon. Or, with the V6/4-speed at freeway speeds (especially at ~70 MPH or above), if you need to quickly sprint ahead of and pass traffic, this powertrain must abruptly SHIFT into lower gears and then make higher RPMs in order to get the job done, since the V6 would otherwise begin to lug. On the other hand, the V8/5-speed powerfully responds to such throttle commands and speed demands in a seemingly effortless and oh-so-quiet fashion; and when you need to aggressively sprint ahead in the V8 and you're already at 80-85 MPH, goosing the V8/5-speed's throttle will impart the sensation of an F-15 kicking into afterburner. When combined with X-REAS, the V8 version is truly a magnificent freeway cruiser. Indeed, one true mark of a powerful engine/drivetrain (as well as a great suspension) is when you happen to look down at the speedometer and find yourself cruising at ballistic speeds, yet the ride and handling is so quiet, smooth and agile that you may easily forget just how fast you're going. In addition, it is my opinion that with the new 4Runner's weighing in at over 4000 lbs. *empty*, the V8's torque power and wider power envelope may also be seen as a safety feature that better allows the vehicle to "stay out of its own way" in a pinch.
(4) The limitations of the V6's lower torque power also become rather evident when the vehicle is driving over mountainous or hilly roads, especially at freeway speeds, and especially when heavily loaded with passengers and/or cargo. In this situation, the V6/4-speed will tend to frequently and rather annoyingly shift in and out of 4th gear, while the RPMs swing wildly along. By contrast, the V8/5-speed tends to just breeze along as if it was out for a stroll in these situations. Furthermore, if the V8/5-speed encounters more challenging upgrades and/or loads, the driver can simply deselect OVERDRIVE (5th gear), after which the V8's torque power will tend to sit happily in 4th gear, since it has so much more torque to play with.
Now, before those of you who own and love the V6/4-speed start flaming me, let me say that my advice to anyone contemplating this V6 vs. V8 issue would do well to carefully and realistically assess a number of factors, including their budget, driving habits, average expected cargo weight, towing considerations, etc. Despite my spirited and good natured argument in favor of the V8/5-speed, it is clear that for a great many 4Runner owners, the V6 fits their needs quite well, and nothing more need be said.
Gas mileage difference is not a big issue for me, I just don't want to be force to pay for a lot of whistle & bells ($3-5k extra) that I really don't need or want ie. sunroof. Given a choice I would prefer the $1250 V8 option over the $900 sunroof. Give me the SE [in the right color] with a V8, and I could be a happy-camper.
I have test driven the 4Runner enough, to know that I do like the X-REAS setup, makes the handling more sport car like.
*Give me the SE [in the right color] with a V8, and I could be a happy-camper.*
Correction, you WILL be a happy camper
I have the V-8. The V-6 wasn't available when I bought mine in Dec 03. The low end torque of the V-8 may better off road based on my previous experience with old CJ-5 jeeps I owned which had low end torque in their 144 CU In (about 2.2 liter) Inline 4cylinder engines.
The sunroof was mandatory because my wife wanted it <grin>. No rattle in it so far. I have the two-tier cargo area; The JBL sound system or NAV was not a consideration for me. I like the roof rack, and running boards (how else will women in skirts get up into it???<big grin>). I have no need for a bigger engine and more torque; the V6 4Runner has more than enough power and torque for me. I’d buy the V6 4Runner again tomorrow, and I highly recommend it to anyone whose needs parallel mine. You won’t be sorry with the V6.
I also own a 1988 V6 4Runner and this new one is like night and day compared to it. It literally takes off like a rocket, and I have to watch my speed because I tend to go to fast with it. It’s great riding, has terrific handling, and is well built, an all around quality vehicle.
I'm not so concerned with the additional wear and tear with the V8 as it probably is negligible. Of course, having more mechanicals in constant motion does cause more wear, but considering how rock solid Toyota's are overall, I could use a little more 'maintenance' to keep me on my toes :-)
Th double decker cargo option comes in handy, but, honestly, I usually leave it lowered. I wish that it were adjustable, so that an ice chest could be placed under the cargo deck. I would like it even better if it could be removed easily without leaving any exposed areas.
No one should drag race EITHER V8 or V6 4Runner or exceed the speed limit, no matter how tempting
For example, when leisurely driving around town or in the countryside on cool or balmy days or evenings, tilting open the moonroof provides for a gentle and delightfully refreshing circulation of fragrant fresh-air in the cabin.
And consider this: Ever since automotive designers long ago did away with those wonderful triangular shaped, front side-window air vents (remember those?) found on older vehicles, there are very limited options left for obtaining some "quiet" fresh-air flow in the cabin at moderate driving speeds. Opening the front windows slightly will admit some air, but this typically results in a large amount of wind noise, turbulence, and air drag. Open the windows a bit more, and it only gets worse.
On the other hand, I submit that when a well engineered, power moonroof such as the 4Runner's is tilted open, it actually functions very much like the triangular side-window vents of old, because:
(1) When in the open, TILTED position, the leading edge of moonroof glass serves as a deflective airfoil rather than as an air SCOOP. Meanwhile, the aft edge of the moonroof's opening admits a constant but very gentle amount of air INTO the cabin; while also creating a constant, gentle vacuum effect that tends to continuously draw OUT a certain amount of air from the cabin as well. (Smokers especially will know exactly what I'm describing here). Thus, tilting open the moonroof (while all other windows are closed) can result in very pleasant open-air ventilation for driver and passengers alike, with almost no annoying air currents.
(2) When in the open, tilted position, it is my opinion that the 4Runner's moonroof actually generates a very modest amount of wind noise. Indeed, even at modest freeway speeds, there are many times when I enjoy having the moonroof tilted open. In addition, I tend to be able to better hear the sound of the engine and the Michelin Cross Terrains when the moonroof is tilted open, and these sounds can be very pleasing.
(3) Even when the moonroof's glass must be fully closed and sealed shut, I have come to appreciate the many occasions (day or night!) in which simply opening the moonroof's inner cover will result in visual elements that can be very, very pleasing. Examples here would include spectacular starry nights as well as spectacular sunsets and sunrises; deep blue skies; heavy snow falls; and a heightened visual effect when driving along tree lined country roads at the peak of autumn colors. Simply uncovering the sealed moonroof will increase the sense of "openness" for driver and passengers alike.
Of course, there are also times when the view from the moonroof should be occluded, such as when the sun is at angles where it would be annoying when shining through the roof. Also, even when the moonroof is sealed shut, opening the inner cover will definitely result in hearing more wind noise from the moonroof's structure.
In summary, I've come to appreciate the 4Runner's extremely well designed moonroof, and while moonrooves of old may have tended to leak water eventually, I doubt this is much of a concern with the likes of the 4Runner, unless we happen to forget to close it, and that's definitely a liability, but one we can prevent.
As for the problem of forgetting to close the mooroof when leaving the vehicle, does anyone know of any aftermarket company that sells an attachment that immediately closes the moonroof upon removal of the ignition key (or some other sort of system)?
I have recently installed window visors to my windows. I do like them since it affords me the ability to drive with the windows partly ajar while driving in the rain and allowing ventilation while the vehicle is parked. Unfortunately, it leads to a bit more wind noise, but this isn't too bothersome.
Thanks for everyone's posts and reviews. I haven't felt this confident about a vehicle purchase since we bought an '04 Sienna XLE LTD six months ago
We'll be a 100% Toy family soon.
kheintz1 made some important observations, even if one has no plans to tow you will at times find yourself with a full load of passengers and perhaps some luggage. Up and over a few mountain passes or large hills and you will wish you had indeed selected the V8.
I’m looking for something with some versatility, and still somewhat sporty. I did check out the General's lines; Tahoes/Yukon, Envoy/TB, GM is still lagging, but there are a ton of Tahoes & Yukons on the road in my neck of the woods.
I personally hate moonroofs and think they are a waste of money. So when I was thinking about dropping 27k on a vehicle I made sure I got what I wanted. I personally did a build order on my 4runner and got Exactly what I wanted. You can search this board for my posts about my great experience with the build order process.
So you know, I also was motivated to do a build order because it was initially really hard to find 4wd sport 4runners in california. The only ones you could find had every option, which I didn't want.
Hope that helped.
-Jared
On the other hand, I avoid habits such as jackrabbit starts, speed shifting, hard braking, forceful oversteering, flying over rough roads, etc. I believe that the frequent practice of such habits and maneuvers will likely shorten the life of tires, brakes, suspension components, drivetrain, powertrain, etc.
Even though I now use Quaker State's full synthetic oil, on cold start-ups I still allow my truck's engine to idle for a few minutes before putting it in gear.
I would also mention that even if one always drives very conservatively, it is the accumulated amount of short distance, "stop-and-go", or "around town" miles that are often the hardest on most any vehicle, especially for the engine. I've heard that one of several reasons for this is due to the engine oil not getting hot enough (and staying at that temp. long enough) for the suspended water molecules and other volatile contaminants (byproducts of combustion, etc.) to "boil off" and become more easily removed when a vehicle is subjected to mainly stop-and-go driving miles. Indeed, many engine oil manufacturers and car manufacturers alike consider a preponderance of "stop-and-go" miles to fall under the "extreme duty" category; and many recommend more frequent oil change intervals in this situation, compared with vehicles that spend most of their time seeing "freeway" or "highway" miles.
Assuming one keeps their vehicle well maintained and serviced, it is good for the engine, exhaust system, drivetrain, etc., to get regular and extended workouts at sustained higher speeds over wide-open freeways and highways.
thanks
If you do a search on the K&N filters through some of the message boards out there you'll find an awful lot of people who agree that they are a total waste of money as far as performance and increased mileage goes.
How important are they to vehicle safety?
Thanks so much.
http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/
http://www.hwysafety.org/vehicle_ratings/ratings.htm
BTW -- Anyone have an opinion on tires? There seem to be three delivered varieties: Brigestone, Dunlop, and Michelin's. I've had terrible rides with the former 2, and the Michelin's seem consistently great, as well as rating well on the NHTSA site. Unfortunately there delivered sort-of randomly, so you don't really have a choice.
Side airbags that deploy from the seats protect your torso, but do not protect your head. The side curtain airbags protect your head from side impacts.
I don't know, but something would lead me to think that the 4Runner might be the better option.
We had a 1973 Plymouth Station Wagon. Our family has purchased 12 cars since then, none from Chry-Ply.
Another one to avoid is the Hummer, a GM nightmare. Stick with the Toyota, you can't go wrong, better resale value too.
I am considering purchasing a 4-Runner Sport with a V-8.
What are the opinions of the group with regard to a V-6 vs. a V-8?