How powerful is a 2.4‑liter engine?

A 2.4‑liter engine can produce anything from roughly 150 to more than 300 horsepower depending on its design. In practice, most naturally aspirated gasoline 2.4‑liters make about 150–210 hp, modern turbocharged versions commonly deliver 230–300+ hp, hybrid‑assisted 2.4‑liter turbos can reach the mid‑300s with very high torque, and 2.4‑liter diesels trade lower peak horsepower for strong low‑rpm pull.

What the 2.4‑liter figure actually tells you

The “2.4 liters” describes engine displacement—the total volume swept by all pistons in one cycle—not power. Displacement is only one ingredient in an engine’s output; induction (natural aspiration vs. turbo/supercharging), fuel type, combustion cycle (Otto vs. Atkinson/Miller), compression ratio, valvetrain, and engine speed capability are decisive. Horsepower is a function of torque and rpm (hp ≈ torque × rpm ÷ 5252), so two 2.4‑liter engines can feel very different depending on where and how they make torque.

Typical power and torque ranges

The following categories summarize what drivers can expect from contemporary 2.4‑liter engines, using manufacturer ratings for street vehicles (SAE net in North America) and widely cited figures for global models. Torque is crucial for real‑world feel, especially in heavier vehicles.

• Gasoline, naturally aspirated: about 150–210 hp and 155–180 lb‑ft (210–245 Nm). Common in 2010s sedans and crossovers.
• Gasoline, turbocharged: roughly 230–300+ hp and 260–350+ lb‑ft (350–475+ Nm), with broad torque bands for daily drivability.
• Gasoline, turbo‑hybrid: up to around 326 hp and about 465 lb‑ft (630 Nm), as seen in truck‑focused systems pairing a 2.4T with an electric motor.
• Diesel (almost always turbocharged): typically 140–200 hp but stout torque of 270–360 lb‑ft (365–490 Nm), tuned for efficiency and towing.
• Aftermarket and motorsport builds: 350–600+ hp is feasible from 2.4‑liter gasoline engines with high boost and strengthened internals, at the expense of emissions compliance, longevity, and warranty.

These bands reflect the spread created by modern engineering: the same displacement can be optimized for economy, everyday versatility, or outright performance. Actual at‑the‑wheels output also depends on drivetrain losses, gearing, and altitude.

Real‑world examples from current and recent vehicles

To illustrate the spread, here are notable 2.4‑liter engines from mainstream brands and their published outputs. Figures vary by market, model year, and calibration.

• Toyota 2.4L T24A‑FTS turbo (2023–2025 Toyota Highlander; 2022–2025 Lexus NX 350): about 265–275 hp and 310–317 lb‑ft.
• Toyota 2.4L i‑FORCE turbo (2024–2025 Toyota Tacoma): approximately 228–278 hp and up to 317 lb‑ft depending on trim/transmission; i‑FORCE MAX hybrid version: 326 hp and 465 lb‑ft.
• Subaru 2.4L FA24F turbo (Ascent, Outback XT, Legacy XT, WRX): roughly 260–271 hp and 258–277 lb‑ft.
• Honda/Acura 2.4L naturally aspirated (K‑series/Earth Dreams in Accord/Civic Si/TLX through late 2010s): about 185–206 hp and 170–182 lb‑ft.
• Hyundai/Kia 2.4L Theta II GDI NA (Sonata/Optima/K5, 2010s): roughly 185–201 hp and 178–186 lb‑ft.
• GM 2.4L Ecotec NA (Malibu/Equinox/Terrain, 2010s): about 170–182 hp and 170–172 lb‑ft.
• Chrysler/Fiat 2.4L Tigershark MultiAir II NA (Dart, Jeep Cherokee/Compass): roughly 177–184 hp and 165–175 lb‑ft.
• Toyota 2.4L 2GD‑FTV turbodiesel (Hilux/HiAce, various markets): about 148–150 hp and 295–400 Nm (217–295 lb‑ft), calibrated for torque and economy.
• Volvo 2.4L “D5” turbodiesel inline‑five (2000s–2010s): roughly 163–225 hp and 340–460 Nm (251–339 lb‑ft), depending on generation and tune.

These examples show how a 2.4‑liter can be tuned for efficiency in family sedans, deliver robust midrange in crossovers, supply truck‑like torque in hybrid pickups, or prioritize low‑rpm pull in diesels sold globally.

What actually determines the power

Displacement sets the stage, but engineering choices dictate how much power a 2.4‑liter produces and where in the rev range it’s delivered.

1. Airflow and aspiration: Turbo/supercharging and intercooling increase air density, enabling more fuel and higher output.
2. Valve timing and lift: Variable systems and combustion cycles (Otto vs. Atkinson/Miller) reshape torque curves and efficiency.
3. Compression ratio and fuel: Higher compression and premium fuel can safely raise power; knock control is key.
4. Engine speed potential: Higher redlines allow more horsepower from the same torque (hp scales with rpm).
5. Fueling and combustion management: Direct injection, port+direct strategies, and precise ignition improve power and emissions.
6. Hybridization: Electric motors add instant torque, filling turbo lag and boosting combined output.
7. Durability and emissions targets: Manufacturers may cap output to meet reliability, noise, and regulatory requirements.

In short, the badge figure (2.4L) is only one piece; the rest of the design defines how that displacement feels on the road.

How to judge if a 2.4‑liter is “powerful enough” for you

Matching an engine to your needs depends on vehicle mass, driving environment, and expectations. Consider the following before deciding.

• Vehicle weight and power‑to‑weight: In a 3,200–3,600 lb (1,450–1,630 kg) car, 180–220 hp feels adequate; heavier SUVs and trucks benefit from 250+ hp or turbo torque.
• Use case: Daily commuting and highway cruising suit NA or mild‑turbo 2.4s; towing/hauling favors turbocharged or hybridized setups with higher torque.
• Altitude: Turbos maintain power better at elevation than naturally aspirated engines.
• Transmission and gearing: A wide‑ratio automatic or well‑chosen manual gearing can make a modest engine feel livelier.
• Fuel and operating costs: Some turbo 2.4s specify premium fuel for rated output; diesels and hybrids have different cost profiles.
• Reliability and maintenance: Note known issues (e.g., oil consumption reports in some Tigershark 2.4s, intake valve deposits in GDI engines) and adhere to service intervals.

Assessing these factors alongside published horsepower and torque will give a clearer picture than displacement alone.

Summary

A 2.4‑liter engine’s power spans a wide spectrum: roughly 150–210 hp for naturally aspirated gasoline units; 230–300+ hp for modern turbocharged versions; mid‑300s with hybrid assistance; and 140–200 hp but strong torque for diesels. Displacement does not dictate performance—induction, tuning, and technology do. For shoppers, focus on the specific engine’s rated horsepower and torque, how early and broadly that torque arrives, and whether it matches your vehicle’s weight and your driving needs.

How many horsepower is a 2.4 L engine?

A 2.4-liter engine’s horsepower varies significantly depending on the vehicle, engine design, and whether it’s turbocharged or a hybrid, with examples ranging from approximately 150 hp for an older Chrysler engine to 326 hp for a modern hybrid Toyota powertrain. For a non-hybrid option, a 2.4L turbocharged engine can produce around 260-278 hp, while naturally aspirated versions like the GM Ecotec produce about 182 hp.
 
Examples of 2.4L Engine Horsepower

• GM 2.4L Ecotec (Naturally Aspirated): Around 182 hp in vehicles like the Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain. 
• Honda 2.4L i-VTEC: Approximately 184 hp in the 2018 CR-V. 
• Older Chrysler 2.4L: About 150 hp. 
• Subaru 2.4L Turbocharged: Around 260 hp in models like the Ascent. 
• Toyota 2.4L Turbocharged: About 278 hp (non-hybrid) and 326 hp (hybrid) for newer models like the Land Cruiser and Tacoma. 

Factors Influencing Horsepower

• Turbocharging: A turbocharger forces more air into the engine, significantly increasing horsepower compared to a naturally aspirated engine of the same displacement. 
• Hybridization: A hybrid system adds power from an electric motor to the gasoline engine, resulting in higher combined horsepower figures. 
• Engine Management & Technology: Modern engines use advanced technologies like direct injection (DI) and variable valve timing (VVT) to improve efficiency and power output. 
• Vehicle Application: The same 2.4L engine can produce different horsepower levels depending on the specific vehicle it’s used in. 

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. 

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.

Is a 2.4 liter engine a V6?

No, a 2.4 liter engine is not necessarily a V6; “2.4L” refers to the engine’s displacement (the total volume of air it pumps), while the “V6” indicates a specific cylinder arrangement in a “V” shape. A 2.4-liter engine can have a different number of cylinders, and is often a 4-cylinder engine, though it can also be a 5-cylinder or even a V6. 
What the numbers mean

• Displacement (2.4L): Opens in new tabThis measures the total volume of air that all the cylinders in an engine can move during one full cycle of the crankshaft. It doesn’t directly tell you the number of cylinders or their arrangement. 
• Cylinder Arrangement (V6): Opens in new tabThis describes the shape of the engine and the placement of the cylinders. A V6 has two banks of three cylinders each, arranged in a V-shape. 

Why a 2.4L isn’t always a V6

• Common Configurations: Many modern 2.4-liter engines are 4-cylinder (inline-4) engines, as this configuration offers a good balance of efficiency and power. 
• Manufacturer Examples: For instance, the Honda K24A is a 2.4L inline-4 engine, and Toyota offers a 2.4L turbo four-cylinder engine. 
• Other Possibilities: While less common, a 2.4-liter engine can also be a 5-cylinder, like the Volvo B524, or a V6, such as the Audi BDV engine.