Toyota Expands V-6 Engine Production, Plans Turbo 4-Cylinder Engines
Separately, Toyota confirmed plans between now and the end of 2015 to launch 21 new hybrid models globally, and is expected to introduce a new direct-injection version of the 2.5-liter, Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder engine currently installed in the Camry Hybrid. This updated engine will be offered in several of Toyota's hybrid models.
Direct-fuel injection will also become available on standard versions of Toyota's 2.5-liter 4-cylinder power plant, and the company says it will introduce a new turbocharged, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine in 2014.
New transmissions are also in development. The new 8-speed automatic introduced in the 2013 Lexus RX 350 will be offered in a broader range of Toyota models, and the company is planning to expand availability of what it calls a "Super CVT-I" continuously variable transmission, which debuted in the Japanese-market 2013 Toyota Corolla.
In an interview with Automotive News, a Toyota product development representative said that the company's goal is to improve fuel economy by as much as 20% by 2015 on those models receiving the new engines and transmissions.