Is a 2.4-Liter Engine Good?

Yes—when well-designed and matched to the right vehicle, a 2.4-liter engine is a strong, well-balanced choice for everyday driving, offering adequate power, reasonable efficiency, and often good reliability. Whether it’s “good” for you depends on factors like whether it’s naturally aspirated or turbocharged, the vehicle’s weight and purpose, and the specific engine family’s track record.

What “2.4 liters” actually means

“2.4 liters” refers to the engine’s total displacement—the combined volume of all cylinders. Displacement influences how much air and fuel an engine can process each cycle, but it doesn’t determine performance by itself. Design details (turbocharging, compression ratio, valve timing, fuel system) and the vehicle it’s in (weight, transmission, aerodynamics) shape real-world results.

Strengths and trade-offs

Where a 2.4-liter shines

In many modern cars and crossovers, 2.4-liter engines hit a sweet spot—big enough to move midsize vehicles with confidence, yet small enough to keep fuel consumption and ownership costs in check. Here are common advantages owners notice.

• Balanced output: Typically enough power for daily use in compact to midsize vehicles without the thirst of larger engines.
• Versatility: Found in sedans, crossovers, and even midsize pickups; available as naturally aspirated for simplicity or turbocharged for extra torque.
• Turbo torque = easy drivability: Modern 2.4T engines deliver V6-like low-end torque, helpful for hills, passing, and moderate towing.
• Compatibility with hybrids: Some newer systems pair a 2.4 with electrification for strong performance and improved efficiency.
• Potential longevity: Well-maintained 2.4L engines—especially proven families—are known to run high mileage with routine service.

In short, a 2.4L can offer a practical balance of power, efficiency, and usability for a wide range of drivers.

Potential drawbacks to note

Not every 2.4-liter is created equal. Some designs and applications are better than others, and use case matters—especially in heavy vehicles or demanding conditions.

• Underpowered when naturally aspirated in heavier models: A non-turbo 2.4 can feel strained in large crossovers or with full loads.
• Turbo complexity: Turbo versions add heat and hardware, may recommend or require premium fuel, and demand diligent oil changes.
• Engine-family quirks: Certain 2.4L families have known issues (for example, oil consumption in some past models); due diligence is key.
• Direct injection side effects: Many modern 2.4L engines are DI-only; over time, intake valve deposits can accumulate without preventive measures (dual-injection systems help).
• Towing or mountain driving: Sustained heavy loads can stress a small turbo engine; cooling and maintenance discipline become more important.

These aren’t dealbreakers but reminders to match the engine and vehicle to your needs—and to research the specific engine family.

Real-world performance and economy

Outputs vary widely by design. As a general guide, naturally aspirated 2.4L engines often produce about 150–190 hp and 160–180 lb-ft, with exceptions like the Subaru BRZ/GR86’s 2.4L at roughly 228 hp. Turbocharged 2.4L engines commonly range around 240–310 hp with 270–430 lb-ft, giving brisk acceleration in crossovers and midsize pickups.

Fuel economy depends on vehicle size and tuning. In compact/midsize sedans, older NA 2.4Ls often achieve mid-20s to low-30s mpg combined. Turbo 2.4L crossovers typically land in the low-to-mid 20s combined, with highway numbers in the mid-to-high 20s, while performance-focused or heavier models trend lower. Hybrid systems paired with a 2.4L can push combined figures into the high-20s or better, depending on configuration.

For towing, many turbocharged 2.4L setups in midsize SUVs and pickups are rated in the ballpark of 5,000–7,000 pounds when properly equipped, though exact capability varies by model and cooling/driveline packages.

Reliability snapshot: notable 2.4-liter families

Reliability hinges on the specific engine family and maintenance history. Below are widely discussed examples to illustrate the spread—good and bad—across different 2.4L designs.

• Honda K24 (various Accords, CR-Vs, others): Generally regarded as robust with proper oil changes. Timing-chain design; pay attention to maintenance intervals and oil quality.
• Subaru FA24 (Ascent, Outback XT, WRX, BRZ/GR86 variant): Strong torque in turbo trims and lively NA in sports coupes. Direct injection means intake cleanliness matters; overall reliability has been solid with routine service.
• Toyota 2.4T T24A-FTS (Highlander, Tacoma, Crown, Lexus NX350/RX350, among others): Broad low-end torque and efficiency improvements. Some 2023–2024 units were subject to recalls/stop-sales related to potential manufacturing debris; otherwise too early for long-term data. Toyota’s dual-injection strategy helps mitigate carbon buildup.
• Stellantis “Tigershark” 2.4 (Dodge Dart, Jeep Compass/Cherokee/Renegade, Chrysler 200): Widely reported oil-consumption issues and related litigation; verify service records, software updates, and any engine work on used purchases.
• GM 2.4 Ecotec (Chevy Equinox, GMC Terrain, Malibu, Buick Regal, others): Known for oil consumption and timing-chain concerns in certain years; a careful maintenance history review is essential.

Takeaway: A 2.4L can be extremely durable, but the badge and engine code matter. Check recalls, technical service bulletins, and owner forums for the exact year and model you’re considering.

Ownership, maintenance, and fuel

Good outcomes with a 2.4L—especially a turbo—depend on disciplined maintenance. Small details add up to long-term reliability and performance.

Before we get into the specifics, here are the main maintenance and ownership considerations that typically affect 2.4-liter engines across brands.

• Oil and intervals: Use the manufacturer-specified oil grade and change it on time; many owners shorten intervals (e.g., ~5,000 miles/8,000 km) on turbocharged/DI engines.
• Fuel quality: Some 2.4T engines run on regular, others recommend or require premium—follow the label for best performance and longevity.
• Intake cleanliness: DI-only designs may benefit from periodic intake valve cleanings; dual-injection systems reduce this need.
• Cooling and driveline: After towing or spirited driving, observe cool-down best practices where applicable; keep an eye on coolant and transmission service intervals.
• Software updates: Modern powertrains often receive calibration updates that improve drivability and sometimes address known issues.

Following these practices helps most 2.4L engines deliver the service life and efficiency they’re capable of, especially under turbocharged, high-heat conditions.

How to decide if a 2.4-liter is right for you

Use the checklist below to match a 2.4L engine—and the specific vehicle—to your needs, performance expectations, and budget.

1. Define your use case: commuting, family hauling, towing, or performance driving.
2. Check real outputs: compare horsepower and, crucially, torque curves; note transmission pairing (CVT, 8–10AT, manual).
3. Weight matters: in heavier vehicles, prioritize turbocharged versions for better drivability.
4. Confirm fuel requirements: regular vs premium and the impact on running costs.
5. Review reliability data: look up recalls/TSBs and common issues for the exact engine code and model year.
6. Inspect maintenance history: especially for known oil-consumption families; verify frequent oil changes and any engine repairs.
7. Test-drive: assess low-speed torque, highway passing, noise/vibration, and cooling fan behavior after hard use.

Working through these steps will quickly reveal whether a given 2.4L-equipped vehicle meets your expectations—or whether another powertrain would suit you better.

Bottom line

A 2.4-liter engine is often “good” because it balances output, efficiency, and cost across a wide range of vehicles. The best experiences come from well-regarded engine families, turbo variants in heavier applications, and owners who keep up with maintenance. Focus on the exact engine design and the vehicle it powers—not just the displacement—and you’ll make a confident choice.

Summary

A 2.4-liter engine can be an excellent all-rounder, especially in modern turbocharged or hybridized forms, delivering stout torque and competitive fuel economy. Its overall goodness hinges on the specific engine family, how it’s tuned, what it’s asked to do, and how well it’s maintained. Research the exact model-year engine, verify service history, and test-drive to ensure it fits your performance and ownership expectations.

How long will a 2.4 L engine last?

Subaru’s 2.4-liter turbocharged engine has been known to last over 150,000 miles with routine maintenance. All of the issues mentioned here can be avoided entirely with proper care.

Is the i force 2.4 l 4 cyl turbo engine a good engine?

The i-FORCE 2.4L 4-cylinder turbo engine in the fourth-generation Toyota Tacoma is praised for its significant torque increase, low-end power delivery, smooth 8-speed transmission, and improved fuel efficiency compared to the previous V6. While early reviews highlight strong performance for daily driving and some low-end turbo lag, the long-term reliability is still an unknown, as with any new engine design. 
Key Aspects & Performance

• Torque Focus: The engine delivers impressive low-end torque, reaching peak power at a low 1,700 RPM, which is beneficial for city driving, trailer pulling, and off-road performance. 
• Power Output: The standard engine produces 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, a notable increase from the prior generation. 
• Smooth Drivability: The integration with the Aisin 8-speed automatic transmission provides smooth and responsive shifting, contributing to a refined driving experience. 
• Fuel Efficiency: The engine is designed for improved fuel economy and reduced emissions, with features like a long stroke, thin piston rings, variable displacement oil pump, and low-viscosity oil. 
• Performance Tuning: The tuning prioritizes low-end power, which makes the acceleration feel lively in everyday situations but can make full-throttle acceleration less immediate compared to winding out the previous V6. 

Reliability & Longevity 

• New Technology: While the engine uses a combination of direct and port injection (D4ST), similar to other Toyota applications, its long-term reliability compared to the older V6 is a primary concern for buyers.
• Engineering Focus: Toyota’s focus on fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and a lightweight design may have led to trade-offs in terms of durability, but the engine is used in other Toyota and Lexus models, which suggests a focus on overall reliability.
• Maintenance: The direct injection system’s components, particularly the high-pressure fuel injectors, may complicate future maintenance, such as valve cover removal.

Driving Experience

• Quiet and Smooth: The engine is surprisingly quiet and smooth for a four-cylinder, offering a more refined experience than previous models. 
• Responsive Acceleration: Despite a slight potential for turbo lag, the engine offers quick throttle response and feels more agile and lively, especially in the mid-range and at lower speeds. 

How good is a 2.4 liter engine?

A 2.4-liter engine can be “good” as it offers a reliable balance of power and efficiency, but its quality depends on the specific engine design and whether it’s turbocharged. Many 2.4L engines, like some from Toyota and Subaru, are known for dependable performance and durability. However, modern turbocharged 2.4L engines, while powerful, are more complex and may have more potential points of failure compared to naturally aspirated engines.
 
Factors that make a 2.4L engine good:

• Reliability: Many 2.4L engines are known for being long-lasting and dependable with proper maintenance. 
• Efficiency: A 2.4L engine offers a good balance between power and fuel economy, making it a suitable choice for many drivers. 
• Smoothness: The Subaru 2.4L engine is known for being smooth, while the Toyota 2.4L Turbo is also described as smooth and offering good acceleration. 

Factors that can impact performance:

• Turbocharging: A turbocharged 2.4L engine offers significant power and torque, especially at lower RPMs, which is ideal for heavy vehicles. However, turbocharged engines are more complex, increasing potential points of failure. 
• Naturally Aspirated vs. Turbocharged: Older, naturally aspirated 2.4L engines, such as those in some Chrysler Sebrings, might have simpler designs and fewer maintenance concerns than modern turbocharged counterparts. 
• Vehicle Application: A 2.4L engine can be excellent in a car for daily driving, but might feel underpowered in larger vehicles, particularly under heavy loads or at high altitudes. 

Potential Concerns:

• Complexity: Turbocharged 2.4L engines have more intricate parts, like high-pressure fuel systems and water/oil-cooled turbochargers, which can add to complexity and potential issues. 
• Maintenance: While many 2.4L engines are easy to work on, some modern designs with complex fueling systems can make certain maintenance tasks more challenging, according to YouTube reviewers of the Toyota Tacoma 2.4L. 

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.