Toyota Motor Corporation is set to cease production of its naturally aspirated V6 engines for passenger vehicles from fiscal year 2026. The automotive giant is shifting its focus towards turbocharged four-cylinder engines and hybrid systems, a move driven by the need to meet stricter global emissions standards. This transition will impact popular models such as the Camry and Highlander, with the last V6 variants expected to roll out in the 2025 model-year production.
Historical Role of V6 Engines in Toyota Vehicles
The V6 engine has played a significant role in Toyota’s vehicle lineup over the years. The 3.5-liter 2GR-FKS V6 engine, introduced in 2016 for models like the Camry and Highlander, was lauded for its smooth performance, delivering a robust 295 horsepower. This engine was a key factor in Toyota’s reputation for reliability, with the 2JZ-GE V6 variant in the 1990s Lexus GS achieving durability ratings above 300,000 miles, according to Consumer Reports surveys.
Earlier V6 variants, such as the 3.0-liter 1MZ-FE, have been in use since the 1990s in vehicles like the Avalon. By 2020, these engines had powered over 10 million units globally, demonstrating the significant role of V6 engines in Toyota’s history.
Key Drivers for Phasing Out V6 Engines
The decision to phase out V6 engines is driven by several factors. Stricter emissions regulations, such as the European Union’s Euro 7 standards and California’s Advanced Clean Cars II, make V6 engines less viable due to their higher CO2 output. Turbocharged four-cylinder engines, on the other hand, produce under 150 grams of CO2 per kilometer, making them a more environmentally friendly option.
Additionally, rising fuel efficiency demands from consumers and fleets have prompted this shift. V6 models like the 2024 Highlander averaged 22 mpg combined, compared to 28 mpg for hybrid equivalents. Cost efficiencies in manufacturing also play a role, with turbocharged four-cylinders sharing 70% more parts than V6s, reducing production expenses by an estimated 15%.
Technical Details of Incoming Turbocharged Four-Cylinders
The new 2.4-liter T24A-FTS turbo engine, set to debut in the 2025 Lexus NX, promises to match the performance of the outgoing V6 while improving efficiency. This engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, features a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct injection, enabling quicker throttle response. Integration with 48-volt mild-hybrid systems in the engine adds a 16 horsepower boost, targeting sub-180 grams/km CO2 emissions for compliance in markets like Japan and the U.S.
Hybrid Powertrain Advancements Leading the Transition
Toyota’s fourth-generation hybrid system, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with electric motors for 243 total horsepower, will replace V6s in the 2026 RAV4. This system achieves 40 mpg combined, reducing emissions by 30% over V6 variants. The Prius-derived eAxle technology, first rolled out in 2023 models, enables all-wheel-drive hybrids without a traditional transmission, cutting weight by 100 pounds compared to V6 setups.
Toyota plans to expand to 10 new hybrid models by 2026, including V6 replacements for the Sienna minivan. This expansion targets 50% of Toyota’s U.S. sales as hybrids, reflecting the company’s commitment to a greener future.
Model-Specific Impacts and Timeline
The 2025 Camry will drop its 3.5-liter V6 option, in favor of a turbo four-cylinder hybrid with 232 horsepower standard across trims. This marks the end of V6 availability after the 2024 production. The Highlander SUVs will transition to a 2.4-liter turbo hybrid by mid-2025, phasing out the 295-horsepower V6 that accounted for 40% of 2023 sales.
Lexus models like the RX 350, which used a 3.5-liter V6 since 2015, will adopt the turbo four by 2026. This change will maintain the luxury features of the Lexus line while boosting efficiency to 27 mpg.
Broader Industry and Market Ramifications
Toyota’s decision to phase out V6 engines reflects a broader industry trend. Competitors like Honda and Ford have already reduced V6 usage, influencing Toyota’s accelerated timeline to avoid market share loss in hybrid segments. Supply chain shifts will see Toyota’s Alabama engine plant in Huntsville repurpose V6 lines for turbo production starting 2025, impacting 1,200 jobs but creating 800 new hybrid assembly roles.
Consumer adaptation is expected to be smooth, with 2023 surveys showing 65% of Toyota buyers preferring hybrids over V6s for lower annual fuel costs. This shift towards turbocharged four-cylinder engines and hybrid systems marks a significant step in Toyota’s journey towards a more sustainable future.
More from MorningOverview