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We Analyzed Sales, Consumption, and Maintenance Performance to Discover Which Generation of the Toyota SW4 Shined Most in the Last 10 Years. The Result May Surprise You.
The Toyota SW4 is one of the most desired and respected SUVs in Brazil, a true synonym of robustness, reliability, and status. Over the years, different versions have conquered the public, but one in particular stands out as the most balanced and successful of the last decade. Analyzing sales figures, maintenance costs, and fuel consumption, it is clear that one generation of the Toyota SW4 made its mark and continues to be a reference in the used car market.
This refers to the first generation of the SUV, but specifically in its second facelift, sold between 2012 and 2015. This model not only dominated sales in its time, but also established a standard of durability and efficiency that the following generation, despite being more modern, struggled to surpass in some crucial aspects.
Performance and Consumption: The Power of the 3.0 Engine
The heart of this victorious generation of the Toyota SW4 was the legendary 1KD-FTV 3.0 turbo diesel engine with 171 horsepower and 36.7 kgfm of torque. Although the following generation (from 2016) debuted the new 2.8 engine with 177 hp (which later increased to 204 hp), in practice, the old 3.0 proved to be more agile and responsive, partly due to equipping a slightly lighter vehicle.
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In terms of consumption, the difference is noticeable. The 3.0 engine of the old generation recorded averages that, according to data from Inmetro and owners, were higher than those of the 2.8 engine in the new generation.
- SW4 3.0 Diesel 2015 (Automatic): Average of 9.5 km/l in the city and 11.2 km/l on the highway.
- SW4 2.8 Diesel 2016 (Automatic): Average of 9.0 km/l in the city and 10.5 km/l on the highway.
This efficiency, combined with superior performance, made the 3.0 engine a favorite among fans of the model.
Maintenance and Reliability
The reputation of “unbreakable” for Toyota was solidified by this generation of the Toyota SW4. The robust mechanics, inherited from the Hilux pickup, presents very few chronic issues. The main point of concern, common to many diesel vehicles of the time, was the sensitivity of the injectors to poor-quality fuel, a problem that Toyota acknowledged in a specific batch.
Other than that, maintenance is considered straightforward and reasonably priced for the category. Scheduled maintenance and replacement parts are generally cheaper than those of the newer generation, which incorporated more technology and complex electronic components.
Sales and Design
The 2012 facelift gave this generation of the Toyota SW4 a look that many consider the most beautiful and balanced in its history. With xenon headlights, an imposing chrome grille, and smoked effect taillights, the design became timeless and continues to be highly valued in the used car market.
No wonder it was during this period that the SW4 established itself as the absolute and unquestionable leader of its segment, a position it still holds today, built on the solid foundation of success of this generation.
A Modern Classic
Although the current generation is more technological and safe, the generation of the Toyota SW4 sold between 2012 and 2015 represents the pinnacle of balance between performance, economy, robustness, and design. It is an SUV that has aged with extreme dignity and remains one of the safest and smartest purchases in the used vehicle market in Brazil.
And for you, what is the best generation of the Toyota SW4? Do you agree that the 2012-2015 model was the best? Leave your opinion in the comments!
Tenho uma 2014, não conheço oficina a não ser o básico, freios e pneus.
Tenho uma 2008, espetacular …carro com 18 anos impecável!
Tenho uma Hilux 2016 …..é perfeita !!!