UPDATE: Toyota’s groundbreaking new V-8 engine is set to revolutionize more than just supercars, as the company’s head of powertrains, Takashi Uehara, revealed the engine could potentially be fitted in various larger models, including the Land Cruiser (LC300). This urgent news comes directly from an interview with Australian media, confirming Toyota’s plans to broaden the applications of its latest powertrain technology.
Uehara stated that the new V-8, a twin-turbo 4.0-liter unit, shares engineering similarities with the upcoming 2.0-liter engine currently being tested in the GR Yaris prototype. The implications of this modularity are significant, suggesting that the V-8 could be engineered not just for high-performance vehicles but also for popular consumer SUVs and trucks.
The excitement doesn’t stop there. Uehara disclosed that the V-8 could even be developed as a diesel engine, complete with a full hybrid setup. This would enable Toyota to maintain compliance with increasingly stringent emissions regulations while appealing to eco-conscious drivers. Importantly, Uehara emphasized that the V-8 will not rely on plug-in hybrid technology, which opens the door for it to be integrated into various models like the Sequoia and Tundra.
Speculation is rife regarding which models will ultimately receive this powerful new engine. Uehara pointed out that the V-8’s power figures are still being finalized, but engineers are targeting over 400 hp for the turbocharged 2.0-liter variant. Furthermore, rumors suggest that an electrically assisted version of the V-8 could yield as much as 900 hp, though this remains unconfirmed until an official announcement is made by Toyota or its performance division, Gazoo Racing (GR).
The impending launch of the new Lexus Sport Coupe, slated to utilize this V-8 engine, as well as the upcoming Toyota “GR GT” debuting on December 4, adds to the anticipation. Uehara’s remarks underline Toyota’s strategic aim to maximize the engine’s production and installation across its various brands, which would not only enhance performance but also improve economic viability.
As the automotive world watches closely, the potential integration of the V-8 in models like the GX or LX from Lexus could redefine Toyota’s luxury offerings. With such a wide range of applications, the future of this new engine is poised to make a significant impact on the market.
Stay tuned for more updates as Toyota continues to reveal its plans for this innovative engine technology, which could soon find its way into a wider array of vehicles, reshaping expectations for both performance and efficiency in the automotive industry.
