6th Generation Thoughts of Mountain Driving: A personal research

bradSRT88

New member
Joined
Feb 27, 2025
Messages
23
Reaction score
12
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

I was just wondering if the front bumper color...
Finally swapped out the horn. The meep meep...

Recent

I was just wondering if the front bumper color is different between the trim levels? I’ve...
If you want a FREE 6G4R.com decal, comment below with "6G4R.com Decal". That's it. Each free...
just got my TRD Pro last week - love it
We're going to need a new switch panel in the 6th Gen and both Cali Raised LED and 4Runner...
So I installed the LASFIT floor liners into my new 6th Gen 4Runner. The fit and finish of these...
Ok guys, making the plunge on a plate system for the cargo area on the TRD OR Hybrid. I just...
Who has purchased an extended warranty? Is it worth it? I'm thinking about going with a hybrid...
I was just at X Overland’s Ranch, and Goose Gear was there showcasing their product on the new...
I’ve secured first allocation rights for a TRD Pro in Mudbath. Wanted to make sure the vehicle...
After putting 1500 hard miles on the 2025 6th Gen 4Runner, I wanted to give an honest breakdown...
I came across this 6th Gen 4Runner on Instagram and my gosh does this vehicle looks so good in...

Similar

Back
Top