Tacoma Vs 4Runner oil capacities

So, I just got a 2016 4Runner from having a 2006 Tacoma. They both have the 4.0L V6 engine, but the oil type and capacities are much different. Why is this? I was under the impression they were the "same engine".

2006 Tacoma 4.0L
5.5 qts 5W-30

2016 4Runner 4.0L
6.6 qts 0W-20

 

Why would it matter? Just curious

 

Just a guess but capacity wise may be oil pan related. If memory serves the four runner engine has intake and exhaust VCT, maybe the VCTs are different thus different oil weights.

 

purely curiosity.

 

Probably just oil sump design changes/requirements for the engine.

 

^

 

In this forum, we often see people asking about what oil they should use and we always say the same thing: RTFM, because the manufacturer knows what is best. They designed the damn thing and we trust that their maintenance recommendation will yield the best reliability. This matters because if the engines are confirmed to be identical (unlikely), then Toyota's recommendation to use two different oil weights is a contradiction. It gives a rise to "I know what's best for my truck!" people.

Similar to the people that have vegan dogs and the people that feed their 10-year-olds breastmilk because they know better than to read the manual.

To answer OP's question: the oil quantity is not concerning. Different truck means different configuration. Maybe it's a different pan or the hoses are just routed differently, maybe the radiator is a slightly different shape or the heater core is further away. As for the change in weight, beats me. I didn't design this engine.

 

Fuel economy standards are the reason for the oil weight change.

 

^ but it sounds like this guy did.

(RTFM. Or stick it to the man by using whatever you want. Also, tell your vegan dog I said he's a good boy.)

 

Not the same engine.....

 

Right. Kinda strange that Toyota kept the same 1GR designation for that engine.

The 4Runner has the dual VVT-i setup as well has a cartridge oil filter....and a different oil capacity

 

Aside from a few updates it’s the same motor. Same block, rods, pistons, crank, head design (minus dual VVTi) ignition, fuel injection, etc.