URGENT UPDATE: Toyota’s innovative V-8 engine could soon power more than just supercars, as the company confirms its potential for broader application. Takashi Uehara, Toyota’s head of powertrains, revealed in an interview with Drive magazine that the new engine could fit under the hood of the Land Cruiser (LC300), signaling a significant shift in the company’s engine strategy.
The V-8, a twin-turbo 4.0-liter powerhouse, combines the strengths of two 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines, and is already set to debut in the upcoming Lexus Sport Coupe. With a launch date slated for December 4, this new engine generation could redefine Toyota’s performance offerings.
Uehara emphasized the V-8’s modular design, stating, “The engine block is somehow close” to the new G20E engine being tested in the prototype GR Yaris M. This modularity suggests a wide range of potential applications across various vehicle models, beyond high-performance vehicles.
Importantly, the V-8 may evolve into a diesel variant, complete with a full hybrid setup, making it compliant with tightening global emissions standards. Uehara noted, “We don’t rely on the PHEV system,” indicating that this engine will be installed in non-plug-in hybrid models.
Power outputs are under wraps, but early targets suggest engineers aim for over 400 hp from the new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder unit. Speculation is rife that an electrically assisted version of the V-8 could deliver up to 900 hp, although official confirmation from Toyota remains pending.
As for which models might adopt this robust engine, Uehara hinted at the possibility for the Land Cruiser, Sequoia, and Tundra, along with potential entries in the luxury segment like the GX or LX from Lexus. This strategic move aims to achieve economies of scale, maximizing the investment in this new powertrain.
With the automotive landscape rapidly evolving, the introduction of Toyota’s V-8 engine into mainstream models could not only enhance performance but also reshape consumer expectations. The excitement around this development is palpable, and enthusiasts are eager to see how this engine will perform in real-world applications.
Stay tuned as more details emerge leading up to the December 4 debut, and how this revolutionary engine could set new benchmarks in the automotive industry.
