Toyota 4.0L V6 vs 4.7 V8: Which Engine Is Better? 

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I think, from what I've seen, the 4.7L is almost universally regarded as the more desirable engine.

2004 4Runner V6. Original owner. 238,000 miles including lots of off road and 2 trips to Alaska, Yukon and Arctic circle. Performed all scheduled maintenance. Original head gasket. Original water pump, alternator and starter too. Burns less than a quart of oil between 5000-mile oil changes. I probably just jinxed myself with this comment. 😁

The best is still in production today. The 4.0 1GR-FE is legendary. Timing chain vs timing belt.

It’s the 4.7L for me. The “million mile motor” so reliable. It can tow a trailer with ease even up big hills. With the added bulk of tires overland/camp gear it seems to still drive just fine without high rpm. I love it and can’t wait until it’s a vintage car everyone in the Toyota world wants

As a four time first gen Tunda owner, that V8 4Runner is my dream vehicle

I have no basis to compare, but I really love my 4.7L '08 4Runner. Effortless low end power, smoothness, and very easy to maintain.

I’ve had my 06 V8 4th gen for 3 years now. Having been in both, you definitely can feel that 50 extra torque, on and off road. It’s definitely worth it.

@2:50 Me personally would prefer V6 4WD system over the V8 4WD system. Year-round I can be in 2H and when the weather is bad can select 4H with center diff free. If you forget to put it back to 2H, no big deal. Many people think 4Runner V6 is a part-time 4wd system. That is wrong. Its called a multi mode 4WD system. So pretty much V6 have a extra mode in addition to what V8 4Runner has.

I got a V8 4Runner for some family to drive in the US, and when they were done I kept it. Your channel has been indispensable in helping me with upgrades to this thing, and now it’s a very capable vehicle for anything I could ask of it.

I had an ‘08 4Runner V6 and upgraded to an ‘07 V8 and never looked back. The oil changes were better on the V6, but I love the torque and exhaust note on the V8

I test drove a 2007 V6 4Runner and an older V8 2003 4Runner and hands down V8 all day. The Power, the reliability (head gasket problems on V6) and literally almost the same MPG lol

Magna flow makes an exhaust that gets that 4.7 sounding soooo good

260K on my '03 4.7 still smooth as silk

V8 is the better motor however almost impossible to find one that isn’t full time 4wd which is the deal breaker for me. I just gotta have 2HI , 4 HI , 4L options.😎

2004 4Runner V8…bought new. 204k miles and runs great. Changed the timing belt and water pump around 130k miles. Twenty years. Amazing vehicle and I’m itching for something new but love the thing.

I've got a 2uz-fe and 3sgte combo as well! Love both engines. Great content by including both. The Toyota fam just knows!

My father had the V8 in his first gen Tundra and he drove it over 200k miles on the original timing belt. He was not worried one bit about the belt exploding, he was a mechanic and kept an eye on it over the years. He drove that truck in the southern heat and towed a trailer constantly. Edit: Wanted to add that it is hard to find a V8 4runner that has under 200k miles and not beat on for a decent price.

I have both engines. 4.0 '03 4Runner and 4.7 '04 Tundra. Have 286k miles on the 4.0 and 237k miles on the 4.7. both engines are fantastic, and very reliable. I do prefer my Tundra for towing, but the small box trailer (camper conversion) that we pull, is no trouble with the 4Runner. I haven't driven a V8 4Runner but I assume it is more peppy than the V6 model. I love both engines and have enjoyed owning both.

I've driven both. My own 2005 4Runner SR5 with a V6 and my boss's 2005 Limited with the V8. While I wasn't impressed with the difference in power of the V8 over the V6, the Limited felt sluggish for a V8 and sloppier in the turns with AWD, and I felt my SR5 with V6 handled better. This was a fairly short drive in the V8, though. Now, I don't do any towing, but I use the 4WD, and haul music equipment on a regular basis (I'm a musician in a working band). The one difference I found out from my mechanic is that the V6 uses a timing chain, where the V8 has a belt, and he said he has never seen the chain fail in one of those, I like that piece of mind. I've never had an issue accelerating when it counts with the V6. I keep it bone stock and only get Toyota parts when it's needed anything, and it hasn't needed much. Like the vid, this is just my experience, as 'apples to apples' as you can get, same year 4Runners, just different model lines.

I actually completely forgot about this, I definitely took this into account when I was in the market for mine. Ended up with the v6 which most of the time is perfect, I liked having rwd and better efficiency. That being said, the times I have towed with it I definitely was wishing I had the v8!

My wife has a 05 4 runner with a 4.0, love it. It tows about as good as my 5.3 Chebby did.

Great review to the point

I love my 2007 LC Prado 1GR-FE. Its engine and peace of mind is unmatched.

I personally own both and both are reliable

Great comparison. I live in Costa Rica, and own the 2006 Toyota 4Runner V8 Sport Edition.

04 4Runner V6. 491,000 miles on it. Changed head gasket twice and chains just 10k ago. Need to perform valve shim adjustment. Other than the gasket, which I no longer see as a big job after two times, it’s been great. I think I can easily take it to 650,000. A lot of freeway, and also a lot of off road. Imogene Pass, Poukipsee, Cinammon and Engineer passes on the Colorado Alpine Loop at least 50 times. It’s been a tremendous vehicle with hopefully many more miles to go.

original owner 2004 4.7L V8 4Runner with 120K miles, no complaints.

I have a 05 4Runner and an 03 Sequoia. Both have there pros and cons. Depending on the weather and how you fell that day.

I have an LC100 with the 4.7, it's a great engine with better Torque down low over the 4.0. I did have a 2017 4Runner with 4.0 and it's a good engine too, but the 4.7 has much better torque delivery.

Ive had both 4.0 and 4.7 and I MUCH prefer the 4.7. Like you said, it just makes everything seem effortless

I have both and love my v8 only problem my teenage son loves it too and has started to take over it

I currently own an 09 Taco and love it. 240k and still strong. But after watching your video. Was on the teeter totter about getting the 4th Gen 4R. Now my mind is made up. I want that more than the 5th Gen 4R. Thanks 🤙

Great video.

I agree with most things you said EXCEPT the MPG. It is a huge difference with stock tires on both

I took my 2014 (11/13) 4WD V6 4.0, Access Cab, automatic ,Tacoma, from Wisconsin to Fort Worth, Tx, and back, and got 20 MPG avg, I do have a full size box cover on it. That was my longest trip with it, and I am a retired truck driver. It currently has 70,000 miles on it, and runs great. So far no complaints, and I like that it doesn't have all the radar, and electronic gizmos on it.

I would admit that without a doubt the 4.7 is a great engine that being said I personally prefer the 4.0 due to the long range in the trails and the optional 2wd.

2012 tacoma purchased new,131K on to now.......4.0 engine.........not a stitch of trouble with this truck in 12 years....amazing.i love this truck

I’ve owned/own 3 separate 4.7’s. 2 of them had over 300k and the other almost 450k. Not a drop of oil was leaking out of any of them. Still have my 1999 LX470 with 310k miles. Runs and drives great!

I absolutely love my 09 4runner with the 4.0L & 200K ODM, don't get me wrong! but after seeing this video, I'm a little jealous now...

Great video. I have a 2004 V8 Sport 4x4 purchased new with 143K miles now. I'd like to see your recommendations concerning AT service. I did have trans serviced at 100k miles using the BG service. Concerned with the sealed trans (no dipstick). I'm planning to keep 4Runner forever. It will need a repaint in the future due to sitting out in the SoCal sun causing clearcoat deterioration.

I had the 4.0L in my old Tacoma. If you were the only person in the truck and you kept the shifter on 4, the truck had plenty of power. 4 kept the rpm's slightly higher, and the transmission flipped between 3 to 2 (if needed) that much quicker.. it was pretty much the equivalent of the modern "sport mode" button that's in most vehicles now. But as soon as you loaded the truck with just one more person and some stuff, it turned into a hard working engine that was doing its best and wasn't going to break, but needed more power. I remember reading about how the 3rd gen people that upgraded were just a little reluctant in giving up their 2nd gen. I now have the 4.0 L in my 4Runner- I sort of wish the power curve was identical to that of the Tacoma's - I'm sure it was the odd EPA rules for trucks in the late 2000s through the 2010s that kept those similar engines in separate platforms.

I had an 07 FJ Cruiser, followed by an 06 GX 470. The V8 definitely has more power and torque, but sacrificing a little power for not having to worry about a timing belt is a solid trade off.

Having owned both I agree with all you said. One thing, the 4.7 is prone to leaking head gaskets if you get the coolant mix wrong. Too much coolant will make the heads leak. Also V6 is more prone to sliding if regular oil changes are not done. Both great engines however.👍 Overall 4.7 the nicer to drive.

I have seen countless 2UZ's do a million miles. Now the 1GR is a reliable engine. But the highest mileage i've seen to date is 600,000 miles.

I currently have 1987 - Toyota Truck Custom Cab 22r 4x4 267k miles 2001 - Lexus LX470 4.7 240k miles 2007 - Tundra standard cab, short bed, TRD OFFROAD 5.7 101k miles 2010 - Tacoma dbl cab TRD OFFROAD 327K miles 2013 - Tacoma dbl cab TRD OFFROAD 55K MILES 2018 - Tacoma extended cab 2wd SR 4 cylinder 32k miles If you just do the maintenance any of these Toyota will last a lifetime. You know what they say, "if you want to explore the Outback take a Land Rover, if you want to come back, take a Toyota"

I have a 2005 4Runner V6 , love her but now I want the V8 . lol.

I have the 4.7 2 wheel drive and I do need the intake and exhaust upgrade

Hello new subscriber, yes it is true , either the car care nut or toyota maintenance had a Lexus gx470 come in timing belt snapped, he reinstalled per customer another belt, there was no issues,,,,, I worked at Toyota Lexus 13 yrs seen a lot of 4.7 with 194,000-225,000 miles when the water pump finally started seeping then belt was replaced, I am in Alaska,,,,,,,, great vid. Everything spot on.

Nice review. You can’t go wrong with either of those engines, but yes, I’d say the v8 is a little gooder. I have a 2uz in my 06 Tundra with like 220k miles if I remember correctly. I don’t drive it often, but every time I do, I’m astonished at how smooth the engine is and how good it sounds (what little I can hear with the stock exhaust). I guess I should add that when I was looking for the right Tundra, one of my requirements was that it had to have a 2UZ. Not because of the power or sound, but simply because of the reputation and legendary status of the UZ line of engines. As a crazy Toyota nut, I had to have a UZ engine. The 3.5l V6 in my SW20 scratched the GR itch.

4.0L for me 🙏🏻

07 V8 140k love this thing.

Concur. My '05 4.7 never leaked oil and has been pretty much trouble free for the last 230,000 mi. Oil change, transmission fluid change, and coolant change along with the timing belt/water pump is pretty much it. Effortless shift and plenty of power to tow. I'd say it is more reliable than my supercharged 3.4 5VZ on my '99 4Runner. My 5.7 3UR is getting ready to pass 200,000 mi and it's been trouble free as well. It probably is just as reliable and maintenance free as the 4.7 2UZ.

That's a beautiful 4 runner and as a gearhead I would definitely rather have the V8 despite the timing belt. Just because it's going to be so much more enjoyable to drive.

I went with the 4.0 L, but the rust killed it. The one 4.7L I found was the same thing. I got a 2019 Tundra and Ziebarted it.

Nice comparison, what exhaust have you put on v8?

On my 08' tundra, the secondary air injection crapped out. I installed the bypass which helped prevent any more limp modes. However after a few years, i got a cel regarding the air injector circuitry and cant clear the code through my obd 2 reader or disconnecting the battery. Thats my one gripe with this truck is this stupid air infection system, other than that, its been alright i guess.

4.7 V8 in my gx470 is AMAZING.

The 8. Cuz my 6 blew a gasket at 200km. But i definitely would miss the 2wd option on the 6

Isn't it possible to customize the drive train on the 4.7 to be rear driven to improve efficiency?

If the cv axle breaks, will the v6 in 2 Hi still work?

It doesn't matter.....no maintenance, it will die. Maintenance is the key to long gevity. My 07 5.7 Tundra still rolling at 304k. O6 highlander 356k, still rolling. Maintenance............

What’s the solution to the sticky rear breaks

Those v6s have oil cannisters all over the place depending on year model, for some reason that varies a bunch don't trust 1 example on those 😂 good info all around thank you

While putting the concept of v6 vs v8 aside. I think the UZ is the most desireable because it has an iron block and timing belt. Now you may think, why would someone want a timing belt over a chain? Well because timing covers leak, and no matter what, it will eventually leak. Most people end up having to replace timing chain guides or the chain anyways. So I personally prefer the UZ.

340,000 on my 1gr-fe both engines are great

But, one has to consider the maintenance cost and less fuel efficiency. The timing belt replacement shouldn't be a deal breaker to most, but if you own this truck for 10 years, that's 2 timing belt replacements at $1200/ea. If your starter need replacement, well depending on where you take it, the average cost is upwards of $2k!. The next item that is sorta expensive that you will find requiring replacement on the 2UZ-FE is the secondary air injection pump. It is under the intake manifold. Typical shop cost is around $1200. the only other issue with this engine is the cracking issues on the exhaust manifold, which compared to the others is really minor. The 1GR-FE V6 on the other hand, while sluggish, is renowned for its reliability and longevity.

My only complaint with the 4.7l v8 is that it has a timing belt. But it's also in my 2000 tundra and not a 4runner. I'm sure they are both great engines though

If you're after the V8 model, then you should look at an early GX-460. It's the same chassis with a bigger interior, a timing chain in place of the belt, a standard center and rear diff, A-TRAC, KDSS, and a six speed automatic (with a manual shifting mode), less costly insurance (newer +Lexus badge = perceived higher reliability) and cheaper financing.

THAT particular 1st gen 1GR you own in the taco tends to blow head gaskets at around 200,000 to 250,000 miles. Other than timing cover leaks the 1st gen 1GR is a superb engine. The 2UZ has more balls and sounds better. the only problem with some people (and other people will see this as a plus) is that it’s a T-belt engine. If you know how to do it your self, then it isn’t really a huge problem. But for people who have to pay, it can get expensive. Also, I pretty sure you can get that gen of 4 runner in part time 4WD. The AWD was an option

Anyone else have the problem where the center click tray under the climate controlls rattles constantly over bumps? Or a big shuttering when comming to a stop? Seprete issues

Tried both and 4.7 is way much smoother performance. And mpg is not that different.

Not really sure if this is even a fair comparison. The UZ’s are the best motors Toyota ever made. The first Gen 1GR’s are awesome motors if maintained but aren’t “bulletproof” like the second Gen 1GR’s in the current 4Runner.

The 4.0 V6 in 2010 which has the same power as the 4.7L 2UZ-FE V8 is 13% more fuel efficient than the 4.0 V6 in 2005. Of course the torque is non comparable between 6 and 8 cylinders, but unfortunately Toyota only offers V6s in Australia unless its the 200 series.

It’s no surprise the V8 is more power, more torque etc but for my needs the V6 does everything I need. Also, on the V6, I can switch to two wheel drive. I know this has nothing to do with the engine itself. And the biggest plus for me, since I don’t need the extra power, better gas mileage. Gas is so expensive now. I’m glad I didn’t get the V8 14 years ago. Big savings on gas.

I've have both. I prefer the V8 because...V8 !!!

I have 460k on my 2006 tundra 4.0 am still running strong

2006 Tundra with 4.7. 243K miles. With the Gibson exhaust. Motor is bulletproof. Only work it’s ever had is timing belt change. 2x.

Since 1996, the Toyota 4Runner’s engines are super durable. Both these V8 and V6 are equally durable…V8 may have an edge to be more forgiving when maintenance are neglected.

4.7 will be have more miles and kms, however old is old and consume more. Now it is 2024 and how long it has been removed from productions ?

FYI, the 5th gen’s oil filter is under the truck

4.7, fixable, rebuildable. has issues with exhaust manifolds cracking causing fuel mileage and power drops. interference motor with a timing belt and performance loss when stretched should be reasons enough to change the belt every 120'000km (early) The 2005-09 are the best overall and if I had to choose I would not pick a 4runner before 05 due to the transmission upgrade. The tacoma got this upgrade as it started in 05. the 4runner had this transmission already from Day 1. The 4runner v6 has 2wd, and 4wd but has a center locking transfer case giving it a "multi mode" Like the 4runner it can be ran in 4hi or 4lo on hard surfaces until you engage that center locker without any issue. This is a huge benefit that I believe is overlooked as a mistake on the v8. This mode was not available in the Tacoma for some odd reason and was taken away in later years most likely due to people not using it properly. I would 100% pick the v8 If I was to buy but I know i would do the effort to swap in the v6 tcase (1 inch longer) immediately upgrading to doug thorley long tube headers and making sure to regear for the larger 34's that work so well with full arb lockers.

4.7L = Bigger is better 1. More Torque = faster pickup/higher towing 2. More power = less effort climbing hills

4.7L V8 supremacy

Both good.

4.7L I like my having my towing power when I need it

The newer 4Runner Limiteds with the 4.0 have a torsen center diff. same as your V8.. its not a v8 vs v6 thing its a model option.

Great review ! I would take the V8 any day but the V6 ( 4.0 ) is just as reliable as the V8 . I wish Toyota offered the V8 on the 5th generation 4Runner . 😊

Did u gain or lose any power when u swapper to shorty DT headers. ??

4.7 06 with 170k miles. Runs smooth

I'm selling my 1GR Tacoma so I can get the earlier Tundra. 4.7 is probably the best engine Toyota made.

As a long time 4th gen 4x4 owner, there’s no debate. The v8 is much better. If it’s for daily driving go with updated head gasket v6. If your planning on lifting and bigger tires v8 is the only way

4.7 is a tank. Those toyota v8 are amazing

I’ve had 2 V8 Sport Runners and have never driven a V6 one so I honest cannot compare. I love my V8 though. It sounds good too.

as much as I love the V6 on my 07, 2UZ v8 is just better. It doesn't even get that worse of gas mileage, in real life the fuel consumption is close, but V8's torque down low really transforms the driving experience.

Both are great motors. But, I like the V8 better. I wish my old FJ Cruiser had the V8.

The 2UZ-FE was the best engine ever made in North America. Its a tank. This is why. Plus gotta love the exhaust sound and the tick tick tick from under the hood. 😂

The 4.0 liter V6 in the 5th Gen 4Runner is the one to get. It has dual VVT and used a sturdy chain. The 4.7 V8 is a great with a very weak point. It uses a rubber timing belt that can destroy the engine if it ever breaks.

had 2005 v6, now have 2007 v8 both are good but prefer v8 ..

I'd say the 4.0L. I am biased, I own a 2023 4Runner with it. It's super bulletproof... and with near minimal maintenance requirements. Timing belts are not cheap on the 4.7L 2UZ. The only thing the 4.0L wants is a synthetic oil change every 12 months or 7,500-10,000 miles. Plenty of 4.0L's are well past 300k miles on this long oil change schedule, even in offroaded rigs. The 2010+ does make nice passing power on the high end when you need it. The midrange is strangely inconsistent/nonlinear in these engines, as outlets like C&D have noted. It's as if 2500RPM writes a check that 3500RPM can't cash, but 5000RPM can. I love the 2UZ but I love the 1GR-FE more. If this 4Runner had an 8-speed automatic equally as reliable as the bulletproof 5-speed, I'd be inclined to call it the perfect heavy duty offroad SUV.