Toyota’s New V-8 Engine Set for Broader Use Beyond Supercars

URGENT UPDATE: Toyota’s new V-8 engine, previously thought to be exclusive to supercars, is now confirmed to have broader applications, including potential integration into larger vehicles like the Land Cruiser (LC300). This revelation comes from Toyota’s head of powertrains, Takashi Uehara, during an interview with Australian media outlet Drive.

In a significant shift, Uehara stated that the V-8’s engine block is “somehow close” to Toyota’s upcoming 2.0-liter engine currently being tested in the prototype GR Yaris M. The modular design of these engines opens the possibility for the V-8 to be used in various models, not just high-performance vehicles.

The V-8 in question is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo unit that combines two 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines. Uehara disclosed that this engine could even be engineered as a diesel variant with a full hybrid setup. While he did not confirm immediate plans for Toyota’s new luxury brand, Century, to use the V-8, its flagship status suggests it would be fitting.

The upcoming Lexus Sport Coupe is set to utilize this new engine, with the highly anticipated Toyota GR GT debuting on December 4 likely to feature it as well. Power figures remain speculative, but engineers are targeting over 400 hp for the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, with rumors of the V-8 producing up to 900 hp in an electrically assisted configuration.

Uehara emphasized that the V-8 is designed with hybridization in mind, making it compliant with stringent emissions standards. Notably, the V-8 will be installed in non-plug-in hybrid models, meaning Toyota will not solely rely on plug-in hybrid technology.

There is growing speculation about which models will receive the V-8 power, with the Land Cruiser (both LC250 and LC300), Sequoia, and Tundra being strong contenders. Additionally, a V-8 option for the Lexus GX or LX could bolster Toyota’s offerings in the luxury SUV market.

As Toyota aims for economies of scale with this new engine, expanding its use beyond low-volume supercars could significantly enhance the value of this investment. The automotive industry will be closely watching these developments, as they could reshape Toyota’s vehicle lineup and influence market trends.

Stay tuned for more updates as Toyota confirms details about the V-8’s applications and specifications in the coming weeks.