3.5 vs 4.0

Can’t be used for a swap in a taco if one needs a junkyard engine replacement. So 2015 is the last year available for swap.

The 4Runner kept the 1GR probably due to costs associated with it. I’m guessing the original plan was not to keep the current gen 4Runner this long. The 1GR and 2GR are still within the same generation. Both came out pretty close to each other and have had a few upgrades along the way. Toyota is finally making a move away from that generation with the new TNGA platform. I’ll be making the move to the new gen for my home fleet the next 5-7 yrs. Hoping they’re good as the outgoing.

 

3.5 is a shame. 4.0 is the best V style engine toyota makes imo. Yes, that includes the 2uz.

 

I Don’t have a problem with the 3.5L overall but I do wish the low end torque was better. It really does have practically nothing down low. I’m not shy to rev it up but it gets old having to do that constantly to get power out of it. But, I’m used to it. Haven’t driven the 4.0 but I have no doubt it’s better to drive. The dual VVTI 4.0 with the 3rd gen manual would have been cool to see.

 

I have a 4.0 and have drive a 3.5 along with a few buddies owning both platforms. I can say confidentially that most of my buddies tend to favor the 4.0 in the way of “feeling”. However I have seen the 3.5 absolutely beat on over and over again with little to no issues. I personally haven’t had any problems with my 4.0, and enjoy it more than the 3.5. I will say I notice the biggest difference in the different transmissions. Motors are similar enough to me that it doesn’t matter.

 

I spy a new build in your future. 4.0 swap a 1st gen.

 

lol. na, my motor is chillin. Too much time in it. Gonna do a 4.0 turbo 2nd gen for step bro.

 

05/06 had some head gasket issues but they were resolved.
4.0 for the win

 

I've put 50K miles of work and play on my 2022 TRD-OR Tacoma with 3.5 and 6-speed manual. I like it. I feel like it tows well. It certainly does make a lot of power up top in the RPMs - wakes up per se. But it has enough torque that when I'm not in a hurry I can chug around shifting below 2K rpm and do what I do. Haven't owned a 4.0 to compare it to, so I'm happy.