How Many Horsepower Is a 2.4‑Liter Engine?

There isn’t a single horsepower figure for a 2.4‑liter engine. Depending on design and tuning, outputs commonly range from about 150 to over 300 horsepower. In recent models, naturally aspirated 2.4‑liter engines tend to make roughly 160–200 hp, while modern turbocharged versions often produce about 220–310+ hp, with some hybrid-assisted or performance applications exceeding 320 hp.

Why Displacement Doesn’t Equal Horsepower

Engine displacement—2.4 liters in this case—measures the total volume swept by the pistons and is only one factor in power. Horsepower varies widely with the number of valves and cam profiles, compression ratio, fuel delivery (port vs. direct injection), forced induction (turbo/supercharging), emissions and efficiency targets, and even the rating standard used (SAE net in the U.S. vs. other markets). As a result, two 2.4‑liter engines can deliver very different performance.

Typical Horsepower Ranges for 2.4‑Liter Engines

The following ranges summarize what you’ll typically see from 2.4‑liter engines across common configurations and eras. These are representative, not absolute, and specific models may sit outside these bands.

• Naturally aspirated passenger-car engines (2010s–present): roughly 160–200 hp
• Older naturally aspirated designs (early 2000s and prior): roughly 140–170 hp
• Modern turbocharged 2.4‑liter engines (crossovers, sport compacts, midsize SUVs): roughly 220–310+ hp
• Truck/SUV 2.4‑liter turbos (latest tunes): roughly 228–278 hp; hybridized versions can exceed 320 hp combined
• Performance-focused or hybrid‑assisted 2.4‑liter setups: roughly 300–350+ hp (system output in hybrids varies by model)

These ranges reflect mainstream tuning targets for efficiency and emissions while maintaining competitive performance; exact figures depend on the vehicle’s mission and the specific engine family.

Real‑World Examples (2024–2025)

Here are recent and well-known 2.4‑liter engines and their published outputs to give concrete benchmarks across brands and vehicle types.

• Toyota Highlander (2.4L turbo, T24A‑FTS, 2023–2025 U.S.): 265 hp
• Lexus NX 350 (2.4L turbo, 2024–2025): 275 hp
• Subaru WRX (2.4L turbo FA24F, 2024–2025): 271 hp
• Subaru Outback XT / Ascent (2.4L turbo FA24F, 2024–2025): about 260 hp
• Toyota Tacoma (2.4L turbo, 2024–2025): roughly 228–278 hp depending on trim/tune
• Toyota Tacoma i‑FORCE MAX hybrid (2.4L turbo hybrid, 2024–2025): 326 hp combined
• Acura TLX (2.4L naturally aspirated K24, prior gen): 206 hp
• GM Ecotec 2.4L (various models, prior gen): typically around 182 hp
• Hyundai/Kia 2.4L GDI (mid‑2010s Sonata/Optima): roughly 185–190 hp
• Dodge/Chrysler 2.4L “Tigershark” (mid‑2010s): about 173–184 hp

These figures illustrate the spread: older naturally aspirated 2.4s commonly sit around 170–200 hp, while current turbocharged applications cluster in the mid‑200s, and hybridized systems can push well beyond 300 hp.

How to Find the Exact Horsepower for Your 2.4‑Liter Engine

If you need a precise number for a specific vehicle or engine code, the steps below will help you locate the official rating.

1. Check the owner’s manual or the vehicle’s specification section for SAE net horsepower.
2. Look at the emissions/engine label under the hood or on the driver’s door jamb for the engine code, then search the manufacturer’s site.
3. Use the VIN on the automaker’s website or a trusted database to pull the exact engine and its rated output.
4. Find the original window sticker (Monroney label) or official press kit for your model year and trim.
5. Note that dyno (wheel) horsepower will be lower than the manufacturer’s crankshaft (SAE) rating due to drivetrain losses.

Because trims and tunes vary by market and year, the VIN or engine code is the most reliable route to the exact factory horsepower figure.

Key Takeaway

A 2.4‑liter engine does not correspond to one horsepower number. Expect about 160–200 hp for many naturally aspirated versions and roughly 220–310+ hp for modern turbocharged variants, with some hybrid systems exceeding 320 hp. For a definitive figure, identify the specific engine code and model year.

Summary

Horsepower for 2.4‑liter engines spans a wide range based on design and application. In today’s market, naturally aspirated versions typically deliver around 160–200 hp, while turbocharged 2.4s usually land in the mid‑200s and hybrids can top 320 hp combined. Always consult the exact model, trim, and engine code to get the precise rating.

Is a 2.4 L engine a good motor?

Whether a 2.4L engine is “good” depends on the specific engine and vehicle, as there are many different 2.4L engines, but generally they offer a balance of adequate power for most uses and good fuel efficiency. While some 2.4L engines, like the GM Ecotec, have known issues with timing chains and oil consumption that require proactive maintenance, others, like the Toyota engine, are praised for high reliability and durability when properly maintained. Always research the specific 2.4L engine in your vehicle of interest for known issues and performance characteristics.
 
Considerations for 2.4L Engines

• Engine Type and Design: The “goodness” of a 2.4L engine varies greatly between manufacturers and specific designs. Some are turbocharged, like the new Toyota Tacoma’s engine, while others are naturally aspirated, impacting power and efficiency. 
• Performance: A 2.4L engine provides sufficient power for most daily driving needs and small to medium vehicles. However, for heavy towing or high-performance applications, a larger engine might be a better choice. 
• Fuel Efficiency: A key benefit of a 2.4L engine is its fuel economy, which is a good compromise for its size. 
• Known Issues:
  • GM Ecotec: A common problem in some Ecotec engines is timing chain failure, particularly around 100,000 miles, which can lead to severe internal damage. 
  • Toyota i-FORCE Turbo: While the new Toyota 2.4L turbo engine is powerful and efficient, its long-term durability and reliability are still being evaluated, as it is a newer design. 
  • Hyundai: Some Hyundai 2.4L engines have been known to have issues with rod bearings, which can lead to significant problems after about 120,000 miles. 

How to Determine if Your Engine is Good

• Identify the Specific Engine: Determine the exact make, model, and year of the 2.4L engine you’re interested in. 
• Research Specific Issues: Search for the reliability and common problems of that specific engine. 
• Review Maintenance History: Proper and consistent maintenance is crucial for any engine, especially those with known issues. 

Is a 2.4-liter a 4-cylinder?

A 2.4L engine is not automatically a 4-cylinder engine, but it is most commonly a 4-cylinder engine. The “2.4L” refers to the engine’s displacement (the combined volume of its cylinders), while the “4-cylinder” refers to the number of cylinders. While 2.4L engines are frequently 4-cylinders, some V6 engines can also have this displacement, and in some very rare cases, a 2.4L engine could even be a 1-cylinder engine. 
Why the confusion?

• Displacement vs. Cylinder Count: Displacement (liters) is about the size of the engine’s chambers, not the number of them. 
• Common Combinations: Many modern 2.4L engines are designed as 4-cylinders, displacing 0.6L per cylinder. 
• Historical Examples: The original Nissan 240Z, a well-known car, had a 2.4L inline-6 engine. 

How to tell the difference:
You need to check the specific vehicle’s specifications to know for sure. For example, the 2022 Lexus NX uses a 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine.

What vehicles have a 2.4 L engine?

Vehicles using 2.4-liter engines include the Chevrolet Equinox and Malibu, GMC Terrain, and Buick Verano (using the GM Ecotec engine); the Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Avenger (using the World Gasoline Engine); the Honda CR-V and Accord (using Honda’s K-series engine); and the Mitsubishi Lancer and Outlander (using the 4B12 engine). Other vehicles that have used the 2.4L engine include the Jeep Compass and Patriot, Dodge Journey, and various Hyundai models.
 
Here are some examples of vehicles equipped with 2.4L engines:
General Motors (GM) Ecotec: Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Malibu, GMC Terrain, and Buick Verano. 
World Gasoline Engine (DaimlerChrysler): Chrysler Sebring, Chrysler 200, Dodge Avenger, Jeep Compass, and Jeep Patriot. 
Honda K-series: Honda CR-V, Honda Accord, and Honda Element. 
Mitsubishi engines (e.g., 4B12, 4G64): Mitsubishi Lancer, Mitsubishi Outlander, and Dodge Caliber R/T. 
Other vehicles: Dodge Journey, Hyundai models (using Mitsubishi-based engines), and Acura TSX (using the K-series engine).

How much horsepower does a 2.4 L V8 have?

The 2006–2008 Honda Racing F1 Team used 2.4 L V8 engines, which produced around 560–580 kW (750–775 hp) at 19,000 rpm, as mandated by Formula One regulations.