Why doesn’t Toyota offer a V8 option for the Tacoma anymore?
I’m curious because, although I’d love the extra power and low-end torque of a V8, the Tacoma is my top choice for its reliability. Toyota already has a great V8 in the Tundra, and I’ve seen V8s in 4Runners, but not in Tacomas. I know I could upgrade to a Tundra, but I don’t need a truck that big and prefer the Tacoma’s bed over an SUV like the 4Runner. The V8 in a Tacoma would be ideal in my opinion.
Did Toyota ever offer a V8 in the Tacoma? If so, how far back would I need to look? Would others be interested in this option, or am I alone in this preference?
From what I’ve heard, the supercharger is relatively easy to install since it’s a bolt-on setup. They typically cost around $5-6k, depending on the brand.
The 5.7L engine was reliable and used in Land Cruisers and Tundras for over a decade. As of 2022, it’s no longer available, and there are no more V8 options, only the Turbo V6 is offered now.
My father-in-law bought a great V8 model in 2021 because he knew it was the last year they’d offer it.
I told my wife that while I wasn’t concerned about the rest of the will, I really wanted his truck when he passes away. She wasn’t too pleased with that, but I’m sure my father-in-law knew exactly what I meant.
Oh, I didn’t realize they were phasing out the V8 even for the Tundras. That’s somewhat disappointing, but given today’s market with efficiency regulations and gas prices, I suppose I understand.
The turbo V6 is an impressive engine. Time will tell if it matches Toyota’s reputation for durability, but on paper, it offers all the advantages over the 5.7L V8 more horsepower, significantly more torque, and much better fuel economy.
I’m puzzled by how the I4 and V6 engines manage to increase horsepower by 20% or more with each refresh, despite having smaller displacements, while V8s have remained relatively unchanged. For instance, the older 3.5L 2GR V6 now produces more horsepower and torque than the 4.7L 2UZ V8. Looking at the V6 progression, the 4.0L 1GR started at 236hp (270hp after the dual VVT-I update), the 3.5L 2GR increased to 278hp, and now the 3.4L V35A is generating 389hp, though it’s twin-turbocharged.
