Smaller i-FORCE 4.6L V8
Toyota increase low end torque and top end horsepower, while improving fuel economy. They have done away with the 4.7L cast iron block and brought in a lighter aluminum powerplant. The new 65lb lighter engine incorporates the dual VVT-i technology of the larger 5.7L i-FORCE engine, and delivers 310hp, an impressive increase over the previous 276hp, with 327lb-ft of torque, up from 313lb-ft.
Changing up Gears
The new 6-speed transmission, an upgraded and reprogrammed version of the old one, compliments the new engine well, a tall sixth gear has been added to improve efficiency at highway speeds, where it cruises around 1600rpm. And it doesn’t take much throttle to wake up and go, it will shift up through the gears quickly and the impressive handling leaves you feeling in complete control.
New Engine Features
The new engine has a slightly higher compression ratio (10.2:1) and a shorter stroke. It also integrates new technology in the form of a water-cooled EGR that helps control combustion temperatures. Although this technology is emission centered, this set up also adds to the efficiency of fuel consumption.
The intake manifold incorporates Toyota’s two stage ACIS (Acoustic Control Induction System) technology. Two, ECM controlled, valves within the intake manifold change the length of the manifold runners to the intake valves. This effectively tunes the engine to increase torque, power at all speeds.
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Images courtesy of MotorTrend.com
