Toyota’s new V-8 engine has been a topic of discussion, mainly in the context of supercars. However, recent developments suggest that this large-capacity engine could have broader applications beyond high-performance vehicles. Toyota’s powertrain chief mentioned in an interview that it is technically possible to fit the engine under the hood of the Land Cruiser (LC300).
The V-8 engine block is said to be closely related to the new 2.0-liter engine, known as the “G20E”, which has been tested in the GR Yaris M prototype. The high level of modularity among these new engines indicates their potential use in various types of vehicles. There is even a possibility of engineering the V-8 engine as a diesel with a full hybrid setup.
While it’s not confirmed if Toyota’s new ultra-luxury Century brand will adopt any version of this new powertrain, it seems plausible given its flagship status. The V-8 engine in question is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo unit that essentially combines two 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines. Lexus Sport Coupe and the upcoming Toyota “GR GT” are likely candidates to feature this engine. Toyota’s decision to go with a V-8 engine was based on power requirements, maximum RPM design considerations, and fuel efficiency.
Although the exact power figures are yet to be confirmed, engineers are targeting over 400 hp for the new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The V-8 engine, aided by electric power, could potentially produce up to 900 hp, but these figures are not official until Toyota, GR, or Lexus confirms them. It makes sense for Toyota and other brands to use this engine in their larger vehicles as it’s designed with hybridization in mind.
The intention is to achieve economies of scale with this new engine and offering it beyond low-volume supercars will undoubtedly make the investment more worthwhile. It will be interesting to see if models like the Land Cruiser (LC250, LC300), Sequoia, Tundra, as well as Lexus GX or LX, will eventually receive the V-8 hybrid engine. Toyota is clearly aiming to expand the reach of its new engine and provide value beyond just high-performance vehicles.
