The 2026 Toyota 4Runner has not been released yet, and there is no official announcement indicating a powertrain shift away from a V6. Based on current public information, the 4Runner continues to rely on a gasoline V6 in the existing generation.
Current powertrain in the 4Runner today
Before outlining the engine and drivetrain details, here is a snapshot of what powers the 4Runner in its current generation and trims.
- Engine: 4.0-liter V6 (1GR-FE) delivering about 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque.
- Transmission: 5-speed automatic transmission.
- Drivetrain: Available 4-door 4WD with a low-range transfer case on most trims; off-road-oriented trims offer additional traction features.
- Off-road tech: TRD and related trims include features such as a locking rear differential on select configurations and multi-terrain electronic aids.
In practice, these components work together to deliver the 4Runner’s traditional mix of capability and reliability in the current lineup.
V6 performance and practical notes
The 4.0-liter V6 remains a defining characteristic of the 4Runner, particularly for buyers prioritizing low-end torque and rugged towing or off-road ability. There has been no official indication from Toyota that a V6-less variant will appear in the near term, and the current generation continues to emphasize the V6 powertrain across trims.
What to watch for in the 2026 model year
Industry watchers and enthusiasts are watching for any official statements about the 2026 model’s powertrain, but specifics have not been released. The following points capture the current stance and expectations.
- Official stance: Toyota has not disclosed the 2026 4Runner’s powertrain details, including whether a V6 will be retained or replaced.
- Current baseline: The 4Runner’s current generation uses a 4.0-liter V6 across the lineup, paired with a 5-speed automatic and available 4WD.
- Industry speculation: Some observers have floated the possibility of alternative powertrains (such as turbocharged four-cylinders or hybrid variants) for future generations, but nothing has been confirmed for 2026.
Until Toyota provides official confirmation, the 2026 4Runner’s engine configuration remains speculative. Buyers should rely on official communications and dealer disclosures for the latest confirmation.
Summary
As of now, there is no public confirmation that the 2026 4Runner will drop the V6. The current generation continues to rely on a 4.0-liter V6 with a 5-speed automatic transmission and available 4WD, and Toyota has not announced any engine-change plan for the 2026 model year. For buyers focused on powertrain, the V6 remains a constant in the near term, while official word on future generations will come from Toyota ahead of release.
Does the 2026 4Runner have a V6 option?
All 2026 4Runners are powered by an i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine. Even the hybrid models (covered separately) use this engine as the core of their drivetrain. Non-hybrid models produce 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, figures that exceed the 4.0-liter V6 from the previous generation.
Can you get a V6 in a new 4Runner?
And Tundra. And right off the top it's worth noting that this produces 187 lbs more torque than the previous. V6. This new body onframe construction is 50% stiffer than the previous generation.
What engine will the 2026 4Runner have?
The 2026 Toyota 4Runner is powered by an i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 278 horsepower, and an available hybrid powertrain delivers up to 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque.
What 4Runners to stay away from?
The 2003 through 2005 4Runners may be Toyota's worst. All three model years have serious rusting issues, so much so that many owners report severe rust accumulating on the vehicle's frame. This generation also had widespread reports of head gaskets leaking or failing, which is an expensive issue for owners.