6th gen Non-Hybrid vs Hybrid

between a theoretical 4Runner turbo 4-cylinder (I-Force) vs Hybrid turbo 4-cylinder (I-ForceMax) which would be better as far as long term reliability, holding up off road (particularly in 120 degree Death Valley ️ heat) and resale value?

I imagine the non-hybrid I-Force.

The hybrid I feel would also only offer 1-3 mpg more than the non hybrid.

Seems the only benefit to the hybrid would be more HP, torque and peppy acceleration.

 

Probably depends on specifics we can’t see yet (both in how it’s laid out and how both will age in the future).

if accessories in the hybrid are electrically-driven you’ll get some points for not having a serpentine belt, alternator, starter to worry about - I don’t remember if Toyota hybrids have that button but the option to self-jump with a low 12V battery is neat too. (that 1500 w inverter toyota likes to put in their hybrids would be a nice emergency use or camping feature too)

Less fuel usage when idling will be a big plus, especially if car camping.

The stop/start in Toyota hybrids is proven so the question is if it can reduce wear when hot. (but of course it adds complexity, but on the other hand it seems proven in the Prius and other Toyota hybrids since they haven’t given much trouble)

So I’d say no major reason for the hybrid to necessarily depreciate more since I don’t think it’s hurt previous hybrids. Battery replacement costs will depend on chemistry chosen but if it’s like the LC, it’ll probably be easy to get at and third-parties already furnish aftermarket cells and packs.

Edit: It's a nickel-metal hydride battery. Not as much oomph as a Lithium ion and it'll probably be bigger but it should cost less and be a little more temperature-tolerant.

1-3 MPG though can be sizable, that’s a 5-18% improvement compared to our 16/19 MPG ratings. It’ll be a plus on range too if the gas tank is the same size. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t jealous of the Highlander Hybrid’s 600 mile theoretical range! (or even my old Sorento’s just-over-400 miles)

If it were me, if the option isn’t expensive or gatekept behind a the top trim I’d go for it.

 

Extra parts = less durability. Now, if no faults surface in this new setup it might be a question of 20 years vs 30 years service life and be completely irrelevant to the original owner making a decision to purchase new 4Runner.

 

Lithium ion batteries have a problem with runaway thermal events (fires) that are self-sustaining (i.e., don't need air) and burn hot enough to melt concrete. This is why nobody repairs them, it is giant liability to be the last one to touch it.

 

The option is only available on TRD Off-road and above just an fyi. If we go off the Grand Highlander it’ll probably be a $3000+ option.

 

Oof