6th Generation Thoughts of Mountain Driving: A personal research

bradSRT88

New member
Joined
Feb 27, 2025
Messages
23
Reaction score
14
I've always wondered about the initial thoughts of the 4 cylinder and how well it may do in the mountains? For instance, people who live in Colorado and do go on trips to the mountains, would the 5th Gen be a better option for them or the 6th Gen? Having these thoughts in mind, I did a research and wanted to share my thoughts on here.

So I found out that it’s already been said that in terms of power, it won’t even be close. This is because naturally aspirated engines lose about 15-20% at elevations of 5k ft vs sea level. To have the turbo will be to recapture the power loss.

With respect to reliability, we know the 4.0 V6 on the 5th Gen is really reliable. It’s a proven motor and very very simple by modern standards but also is quite inefficient though under stressed. It’s interesting when I get to read about the same population of fervent Toyota supporters who swear their allegiance to the brand because of their conservative approach to product development, R&D and durability testing, simultaneously say how the new engine is gonna be a dumpster fire and unmitigated disaster.

While it’s def a more complicated engine, if someone is gonna make sure it’s hearty and reliable, it’s Toyota. They wouldn’t gamble the franchise (Landcruiser, Tacoma and 4Runner are legendary brands unto themselves). Toyota knows why people buy Toyotas. Stubborn reliability and resale value as a consequence.

This is a turbo motor engineered as a Toyota turbo motor from inception. It isn’t a naturally aspirated 4 cylinder they then strapped a turbo to like people are making it sound. The compression, cylinder wall pressures under boost, heat generation all have been considered. Not to mention the state of modern materials and metallurgy that also allow for reliable motors with technical specs not possible a decade or two ago.

With all this in mind, I think anyone who has plans to go on mountain trips should go for the 5th Gen. Apart from it being more reliable and efficient, it's also been proven. Which is a valid point for anyone who is looking to purchase either of the Gens for this specific reason.
 

New Threads

How is everyone thinking about turbo care and...
Hey All- I really like the look of these...
Perry Parts Front Bump Stops for 2025+ (6th...

Recent

My 2025 TRD offroad mods so far include: Wescott full roof rack Cali Raised sliders w/bumpout...
Perry Parts Front Bump Stops for 2025+ (6th Gen) Toyota 4Runner | LC250 / GX550 Bracket Retrofit...
Hey All- I really like the look of these grille inserts that I found on YotaVerse (see link/pic...
How is everyone thinking about turbo care and maintenance on the 6th gen. Besides regular oil...
Good news for anyone planning a front locker upgrade on the 6th Gen 4Runner. Eaton ELocker front...
If you want a FREE 6G4R.com decal, comment below with "6G4R.com Decal". That's it. Each free...
What’s good everybody. New here & looking to buy my first 4Runner. Currently in talks with a...
I have squealing front brakes on my 2026 TRD OFF-ROAD when backing up. I know that Toyota has a...
I'm new to the group. I bought a 6 Gen 4Runner Limited a month ago. I am installing a front and...
Yo guys, finally got the Old Man Emu MT64 suspension installed on the 6th Gen 4Runner and wanted...
I added 285/70R17 Nitto Terra Grappler G3 tires onto my 6th Gen TRD ORP. I wrapped them around...
Just purchased this 2026 SR5 4WD and first thing i did is put on some beefier tires. If anyone...

Similar

Back
Top