Toyota’s latest innovation promises to revolutionize the automotive industry with the introduction of an all-new family of four-cylinder gasoline engines. With 1.5- and 2.0-liter displacements, these engines are designed to be more compact and lighter while delivering extra power and better fuel economy. A new video shared on the Toyota Times magazine’s official YouTube channel gives us a sneak peek at what Toyota is working on, showcasing a stripped-down prototype of a Lexus IS being put through its paces at the Fuji Speedway in Japan.
Exciting Prototype Reveal
The video provides a first-listen to Toyota’s newly developed four-cylinder engine, which is still in the development phase. While the car model remains blurred out for confidentiality reasons, the spartan interior of the prototype suggests that it’s a Lexus IS. Behind the wheel is Takashi Uehara, the man leading the engine development, demonstrating the engine’s capabilities with precision shifting using paddle shifters. The journalist, Yuta Tomikawa, accompanies him, offering insights into the modified Lexus and the engine’s performance.
New Toyota 1.5-liter Engine
The naturally aspirated and turbocharged 1.5-liter engine is developed to replace the current three-cylinder engines in various Toyota models. It is set to be 10 percent smaller in volume, height, and weight, offering greater flexibility in vehicle packaging. The turbocharged variant promises a 20 percent reduction in size compared to the existing engines, with a targeted efficiency increase of up to 30 percent, showcasing Toyota’s commitment to enhancing performance and fuel economy simultaneously.
New Toyota 2.0-liter Engine
In addition to the 1.5-liter engines, Toyota is also introducing a 2.0-liter turbo engine that is 10 percent smaller and lighter than its predecessors. With a promised 30 percent increase in fuel economy, this engine is designed to deliver a powerful performance while prioritizing efficiency. Both engines are being developed with electrification in mind, aligning with Toyota’s vision for future sustainable transportation solutions.
Future Expectations
While specific details about the production timeline for these new engines are yet to be confirmed, reports suggest that the first cars equipped with these innovative powertrains may arrive as early as late 2026. Toyota’s focus on creating engines that offer improved performance, efficiency, and sustainability underscores the brand’s commitment to driving innovation in the automotive sector. Stay tuned for more updates as Toyota continues to push boundaries with its cutting-edge engine technology.