Is a V-6 engine better than a four-cylinder engine?

By Product Expert | Posted in Technology, Tips and Tricks, Uncategorized on Wednesday, June 28th, 2017 at 5:28 pm
2017 Ford F-150 on road

When it comes to getting a car, there are a lot of factors to take into account: price, features, front-wheel or rear-wheel drive, and efficiency are just a few. But one of the most important questions is how the engine will perform. Two of the most common types of engines are V-6 models and four-cylinder models. V-6 models have historically been popular for the power they provide, but is a V-6 engine better than a four-cylinder engine? Both options bring different strengths and weaknesses to the road. Keep reading for some of the pros and cons of V-6 and four-cylinder engines.

Read More: The Simplest Explanation of the Combustion Engine

Pros and Cons of V-6 and Four-Cylinder Engines

It’s difficult to say whether a four-cylinder of a V-6 engine is the best option. It depends on what exactly you are looking for in a powertrain.

Power Output

V-6 engines have traditionally offered more engine output. While new turbocharging technology and engineering has significantly increased the engine output available on four-cylinder models, generally speaking V-6 engines still deliver more horsepower and acceleration. If this is important to you (whether you are looking for a powerful and hardworking truck or just enjoy a sprightly daily commute) then opting for a V-6 might be a better bet.

Side view of the 2017 Ford Edge

Fuel Efficiency

While V-6 engines often provide more engine output, four-cylinder models can often offer better fuel efficiency. The fewer cylinders and lighter engine mean that less fuel goes farther with these engines. If your focus is on saving gas money, then a four-cylinder engine (especially a newer one) may be the best option for you.

Reliability

It’s difficult to say what engines offer the most reliability. How long-lasting an engine is will be greatly depends on the brand, the engine, and how you drive. Heavy-duty vehicles with V-8 and higher can often go for years and hundreds of thousands of miles, but the case is less clear when it comes to passenger cars, SUVs and trucks.

Here at Third Coast Auto Group, we carry quality used vehicles with a variety of engine options, including four-cylinder and V-6 models. If you are looking for a new-to-you vehicle in the Austin TX area, check out our inventory or apply for financing today.