Throughout the late 90s and early 2000s, trucks were primarily used as work trucks, built more ruggedly to withstand a heavy workload. As time progressed, the truck market shifted towards recreational vehicles as more people bought trucks for commuting. This shift in the market has led to the widespread use of turbocharged V6s in half-ton trucks, and many argue that this is hurting modern trucks.
In general, V8s are more suited to truck applications. The six-cylinder engines lack the low-end torque characteristics of eight-cylinder engines, and trucks rely on low-end torque for towing trailers. V6s also lack the iconic V8 rumble, which has been integral to American cars for years. The newer complex hybrid and turbocharging systems found on half-ton trucks such as Ram’s Hurricane V6 and Ford’s Ecoboost often cause problems after 100,000 miles, leading to a less reliable truck. In addition, the smaller engines rely on turbos to achieve the same power output as a V8 that is naturally aspirated.
Older inline six-engines such as the legendary Ford 300 inline six were relatively simple and renowned for their longevity, but the new complicated computer systems led to expensive and complicated repairs on newer six-cylinder trucks. Even the newer V8s like GM’s LS and Ford’s Coyote platform are reliable and are much less prone to issues after 100,000 miles and some have lasted over 300,000 miles.
Another factor to consider is fuel economy. Most modern V8s found in trucks are naturally aspirated, which gives you a more fuel-efficient and reliable truck. The V6s have smaller displacement, but similar power outputs and the forced induction from the turbos shortens the lifespan of the engine. In today’s market, V8s are being sought after more and tend to hold their value better. Overall, V8 engines are more suited to truck use than the modern turbocharged V6s.
In general, auto manufacturers are shifting towards smaller block engines and taking shortcuts to meet federal emissions standards, leading to catastrophic reliability problems. A larger block engine is much more reliable than a turbocharged small V6, as the small V6s are high strung and will not hold up well in the real world. For example, Toyota had to replace the engines in over 100,000 Tundra pickups and Lexus LXs because a manufacturing issue was causing them to seize up. A bigger V8 making the same power naturally aspirated will incredibly outlast a high-strung V6.
