For some time, Toyota’s new V-8 engine has been primarily discussed in the context of high-performance vehicles. However, recent comments from Toyota’s head of powertrains indicate that the engine’s capabilities and design allow for a much broader range of applications across the company’s lineup.
Engine Design and Modularity
Takashi Uehara, in a recent interview, highlighted the potential for the V-8 to feature in vehicles beyond supercars. A key factor driving this possibility is the engine’s design and its modularity, which makes it “somehow close” in structure to Toyota’s new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (the “G20E”). This high level of shared components and design principles suggests that the V-8, or variations of it, could be adapted for a wide variety of vehicle models.
Flexible Powertrain Options
The potential doesn’t stop at gasoline power. Uehara revealed that the V-8 can be engineered as a diesel engine and even integrated with a full hybrid system. While the future of the Century ultra-luxury brand remains unconfirmed, it would be logical to see this advanced powertrain utilized in Toyota’s flagship model.
The engine itself is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo unit, effectively combining two 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines. A production version of the Lexus Sport Coupe will be among the first to utilize this engine, followed by the Toyota “GR GT” which is expected to debut on December 4. Toyota’s decision to pursue a V-8 design stemmed from a focus on power and RPM design. As Uehara explained:
‘If we first set the maximum power required, we have to care about the design of the maximum RPMs. We have to care about the design of the combustion chamber. Then we selected a V-8.’
Performance and Hybrid Potential
While official figures remain unconfirmed, engineers are targeting over 400 horsepower for the new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder mill. Rumors suggest that an electrically assisted V-8 could achieve as much as 900 horsepower, though this is currently unconfirmed.
Potential Models for V-8 Power
Given Toyota’s aim for economies of scale, expanding the application of the V-8 beyond niche vehicles makes considerable business sense. It’s likely that Toyota, and its subsidiaries Lexus and Gazoo Racing, will consider installing the engine in their largest models. It’s important to note that the engine will be integrated into non-plug-in hybrid models, as clarified by Uehara.
Several Toyota models could benefit from the additional power and refinement of a V-8 hybrid powertrain:
- Land Cruiser (LC250, LC300): Offering a more powerful engine option for Toyota’s iconic off-roader.
- Sequoia: Providing a premium engine choice for the full-size SUV.
- Tundra: Boosting the performance of the pickup truck.
- Lexus GX and LX: Adding a potent engine option to these luxury SUVs.
Ultimately, Toyota’s new V-8 signifies a strategic move towards a versatile engine platform with potential across a diverse range of vehicles, rather than being limited to only high-performance applications. It represents an effort to leverage economies of scale while meeting evolving emissions standards through hybrid technology.
