The unveiling of the 2025 Toyota 4Runner brought with it a wave of nostalgia, and for good reason. Toyota cleverly weaved in retro design cues, from the wrap-around rear quarter glass reminiscent of the first generation models to the beloved drop-down back window. But beyond these immediately noticeable throwbacks, there’s a deeper connection to Toyota’s heritage residing under the hood: the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine subtly nods to a powerplant that Toyota enthusiasts know and respect – the legendary 22R.
For those familiar with the first and second-generation 4Runners, the names 22R and 22RE evoke memories of robust, if not overwhelmingly powerful, engines. Calling them “power plants” might be a slight exaggeration given the 22RE topped out around 116 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque – and that was after improvements like the shift from a carburetor to electronic fuel injection. Yet, these engines earned a reputation for being virtually indestructible. Toyota deployed these reliable 2.4-liter workhorses across their body-on-frame lineup from the early 1980s through the late 1990s, making them a ubiquitous symbol of Toyota toughness.
Adding another layer to the 22R legacy, Toyota even produced a limited run of turbocharged 22R-TE engines. Yes, turbocharged! From 1986 to 1988, select 4Runners boasted a turbo gas four-cylinder, boosting output to a more respectable 135 hp and 173 lb-ft of torque, a notable jump from the naturally aspirated versions.
Fast forward to today, and both the recently revealed Toyota Tacoma and the new 4Runner share a similarly sized four-cylinder engine. This modern iteration, dubbed the T24A-FTS, is a world apart from its spiritual ancestor in terms of technology and performance. Forced induction is now standard, and electrification enters the mix in hybrid models. In its gas-only configuration, the T24A-FTS produces a remarkable 278 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque. Hybrid versions surge even further, delivering a potent 326 hp and a massive 465 lb-ft of torque. This makes it the most powerful engine ever offered in a 4Runner, surpassing even the beloved 4.7-liter V8 from the fourth generation (which produced 235 hp and 320 lb-ft).
The connection between the robust 22RE and this cutting-edge 4Runner engine feels undeniably intentional. While official confirmation from Toyota regarding a direct link is pending, the parallel is hard to ignore. Whether or not Toyota explicitly acknowledges the heritage, the spirit of the durable and dependable 22R seems to live on in this new, powerful four-cylinder.
Adding to the appeal of the new 4Runner, many enthusiasts are hoping for a feature that would further bridge the gap between old-school charm and modern performance: a six-speed manual transmission. A compelling argument exists for its inclusion, especially considering the Tacoma offers one and the two models share so much, from the engine and TNGA-F platform to interior components. Imagine piloting a sixth-generation 4Runner, hearing the turbo spool, and manually shifting gears. The 22R, with its carbureted induction noise, had a distinct mechanical character. It would be fitting for the new model to offer a similar tactile driving experience with a manual gearbox to complement its advanced engine.
In conclusion, while the 22RE engine may be a relic of the past, its legacy of reliability and toughness appears to be honored in the 2024 4Runner’s engine. The T24A-FTS represents a significant leap in power and technology, yet it subtly echoes the spirit of its predecessor. The hope for a manual transmission option further fuels the desire to blend the best of Toyota’s heritage with modern driving enjoyment. The 22RE may be gone, but its essence lives on in the heart of the new 4Runner.
