hp and torque

I know horsepower is not everything but these numbers are interesting. The highlander has 270 hp yet 4Runner only 236 hp. Difference of 34 HP.



4runner has more torque though, 266 compared to 248, difference of only 18 hp.





2009 4runner V6

236 hp @5200 rmp

266 ft-lb torque @ 4000 rpm



2009 highlander V6

270 hp @ 6200 rmp

248 ft-lb @ 4700 rmp





4runner of course has a larger engine 4.0 liters compared to 3.5 liters.



Again, I do understand horsepower is not everything but you figure there would be a greater difference in torque for the 4runner. Although with a larger engine the maximum hp/torque kicks in at a lower rmp.



Can someone explain why Toyota choose these engines for these types of vehicles?

Reply 1 : hp and torque

Truck versus SUV pretty much sums it up.

Reply 2 : hp and torque

A truck, especially 4 wheel drive in off road applications, needs more torque at lower rpm..



A given engine can be tuned by a number of factors, most especially intake manifold runners and exhaust headers to develop torque at a lower rpm. Even though the HP figures are lower, it will feel like, and is, a more powerful engine at the lower rpms (more torque at a given rpm) where it's used most of the time. While I don't know in this case, the larger displacement 4Runner engine could be the same/similar engine "short block" wise with a longer stroke, which means the engine will develop it's max hp and torque at a lower rpm.. Cylinder heads are typically a different design for same tuning reasons as intake and exhaust manifolds.



While the above data is where the torque and HP peaks occur, on the 4Runner engine, it's torque curve will be generally higher than the other engine throughout the rpm range..



As an aside, many diesel truck engines develop enormous torque at idle.. if you have ever seen a driver jockeying a large truck around in a tight area, they will be typically doing it using the engine at idle rpm.. In 4 wheeling there can be situations where you need to do the same.



Truck engines are generally designed to withstand long full throttle applications, which is more common in truck usage/applications, so they are somewhat "detuned" than if the same engine were in a car and will have features like oil to water heat exchangers, and possibly a slightly lower compression ratio for better cooling/peak temperature control.

Reply 3 : hp and torque

ToyotaToday,



I think they de-rated the motor for the 4Runner to get more torque for towing. Plus it is a heavier rig than the Highlander. Not built for speed. As stated by dandeman.