URGENT UPDATE: Toyota’s groundbreaking new V-8 engine is poised to extend its reach beyond supercars, with promising applications in larger vehicles like the Land Cruiser. In an exclusive interview, Takashi Uehara, head of powertrains at Toyota, confirmed that the engine could potentially fit under the hood of the LC300 model, signaling a shift in how we view this powerful engine.
This revelation comes as part of an ongoing conversation about Toyota’s innovative engine technology. Uehara disclosed to Drive magazine that the new V-8 shares design elements with the upcoming 2.0-liter engine, which is currently being tested in the concept vehicle GR Yaris M. The modular design of these engines suggests they could be versatile across various models, enhancing Toyota’s lineup significantly.
In a surprising twist, Uehara indicated that this V-8 could also be engineered as a diesel engine, complete with a hybrid setup, expanding its potential applications. While he did not confirm whether the luxury Century brand would adopt the new powertrain, it seems logical given the brand’s flagship status.
The V-8 in question is a twin-turbo 4.0-liter unit, combining two 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines, aiming for an impressive output. Although power figures are still unverified, engineers are targeting over 400 hp for the new turbocharged engine. There are whispers of an electrically assisted V-8 producing as much as 900 hp, although official confirmation from Toyota, Gazoo Racing (GR), or Lexus is pending.
With a launch date for the new GR GT set for December 4, excitement is building around the potential of this engine. Uehara emphasized that the V-8 has been designed with hybridization in mind, ensuring compliance with tightening emissions regulations. This versatility means the engine could be fitted into non-plug-in hybrid models, a key point in its development strategy.
As for which models may receive this powerful V-8 hybrid, there are high hopes for the Land Cruiser (models LC250 and LC300), as well as the Sequoia and Tundra. On the Lexus side, a GX or LX equipped with the new eight-cylinder engine would create a striking addition to the luxury SUV market.
Toyota’s strategic move to diversify the applications of its new V-8 engine is not only about performance but also about achieving economies of scale. By extending its use beyond low-volume supercars, Toyota is poised to maximize its investment in cutting-edge engine technology.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops, particularly with the upcoming reveal of the GR GT and further details on the V-8’s applications across Toyota’s extensive vehicle lineup. The automotive world is watching closely as these innovations could redefine performance standards and consumer expectations.
