Top 18 Toyota Engines Of All Time, Ranked By Power And Efficiency

Reliability is the first thing that comes to mind when many think of Toyota, but the Japanese automaker also has a good lineup of powerful, affordable, and fuel-efficient cars. In fact, the greatest Toyota engines, such as the 2GR-FE V6 and 2JZ-GTE are known for their power and reliability.

What’s also noticeable, is that many of the engines featured on this list are under 300 hp. That’s not simply because Toyota isn’t interested in performance, not by a long shot. It’s actually due to the now-defunct Gentlemen’s Agreement, in which Japanese automakers including Toyota agreed to limit their sports cars’ advertised horsepower to 276.

The great thing about Toyota engines is that they are so versatile; perfect for both the family man who needs a reliable commuter and also the JDM-addicted gearhead, who needs a seriously solid basis for a latest tuning project. So, from gasoline three-cylinders to impressive V8 engines, here are the most powerful and fuel-efficient engines built by Toyota.

How we got our engine selections:
HotCars analyzed the top Toyota engines ever based on power and fuel efficiency. The following engines were sorted in order from lowest to highest according to an average produced from HotCars’ scoring in two key categories: total horsepower output and combined MPG.

Scoring Methodology

18 Toyota MF10 2.0-Liter: 1/10

Toyota MF10 Ratings

Here’s how our team rates Toyota MF10 in two key categories:

The scores do little to impress with the MF10 engine, but that hardly matters in this instance. That’s because this silky-smooth six-cylinder engine powers one of the most valuable and desirable Toyotas of all time; the 2000GT. This evocative coupe harks from the mid-1960s, and with just over 350 examples produced, it’s insanely rare. Technically, with a combined MPG of just 14.3, it shouldn’t score at all on our ranking system, but we’ve assigned a score of 1 in place of a 0. Regardless of the score, this frightfully important engine deserves respect.

Pros

• Iconic inline-6 from arguably the most desirable Toyota in existence
• Very aesthetic engine, with an intoxicating exhaust note

Cons

• In comparison to modern engines, the power output is very poor
• Fuel consumption is unimpressive, but in tune with technology of the era

Engine Specs

17 Toyota 7M-GTE 3.0-Liter: 4/10

Toyota 7M-GTE Ratings

Here’s how our team rates Toyota 7M-GTE in two key categories:

Although the Toyota 7M-GTE was short-lived, running only from 1986 to 1992, it was the most potent version of the M family of six-cylinder engines by the Japanese automaker. This lump can most likely be found in the form of a 232-hp inline-six 3.0-liter engine, under the hood of the 1986 to 1992 Toyota Supra, or 1986 to 1991 Soarer. The power output is respectable at nearing 270 horsepower, but the fuel consumption lets it down on our scoring system.

Pros

• Great tuning potential
• Easier starts with electronic fuel injection

Cons

• Head gasket issues have been reported

Engine Specs

16 Toyota 3MZ-FE 3.3-Liter: 4.5/10

Toyota 3MZ-FE Ratings

Here’s how our team rates the Toyota 3MZ-FE in two key categories:

Unlike the 1MZ-FE and 2MZ-FE versions of the Toyota MZ engine, the 3MZ-FE 3.3-liter V6 was better equipped with a VVT-i phase regulator on the intake shaft and ETCS-i (Electronic Throttle Control System). The 3MZ-FE was also more powerful than the two versions that came before it, so Toyota stuffed the 3MZ-FE under the hood of the Mitsuoka Orochi, 2004 to 2007 Highlander, 2004 to 2006 Sienna, 2004 to 2006 Lexus RX 330, and 2004 to 2006 Lexus ES 330.

Pros

• Long-lasting
• Larger throttle body diameter than the 1MZ-FE
• Better knock control with a new flat-type knock sensor

Cons

• Tends to overheat
• Excessive oil consumption
• Power may drop due to clogged injectors

Engine Specs

15 Toyota 2JZ-GTE 3.0-Liter: 4.5/10

Toyota 2JZ-GTE Ratings

Here’s how our team rates Toyota 2JZ-GTE in two key categories:

Although it was developed in response to Nissan’s RB26DETT 2.6-liter, inline twin-turbo six-cylinder, the Toyota 2JZ-GTE later became the best friend of tuners. You will find the 2JZ-GTE in JDM cars like the Toyota Aristo 3.0V JZS147 and Aristo V300 JZS161. And as every fan already knows, the 2JZ-GTE powered the Toyota Supra driven by Paul Walker’s character in the Fast & Furious franchise.

Pros

• Tuner-friendly
• Durable cast iron closed deck block
• Tightly-packaged, inline configuration

Cons

• Reports of underwhelming performance during cold weather
• Oil pump seal can blow out
• Sequential turbo system may fail

Engine Specs

14 Toyota 3S-GTE 2.0-Liter: 5/10

Toyota 3S-GTE Ratings

Here’s how our team rates the Toyota 3S-GTE in two key categories:

The 3S-GTE is an underrated 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine that was built in 1986 and remained in production until 2007. It made its debut on the fourth-generation Toyota Celica and later found its way into the 1997 to 2001 Toyota Caldina, and 1990 to 1999 Toyota MR2. This diverse application shows just how versatile some Toyota engines truly are.

Pros

• Durable
• Used in various racing and consumer vehicles
• Reasonably priced

Cons

• Oil leaks
• Reports of engine blocks cracking

Engine Specs

13 Toyota 1UR-FE 4.6-Liter: 5.5/10

Toyota 1UR-FE Ratings

Here’s how our team rates the Toyota 1UR-FE in two key categories:

This V8 engine boasts a more significant displacement than most Toyota and Lexus engines, and rightfully so, as it powers some of the more chunky models from each manufacturer. The last model to be available with the thirsty V8 is the 2023 Lexus GX 460, and in that trim, it kicks out 301 horsepower. However, the new 2024 Lexus GX no longer requires the powerful yet inefficient 1UR-FE engine.

Pros

• Impressive power output
• Excellent torque, suitable for heavy SUVs

Cons

• Poor fuel consumption
• Aging, inefficient design

Engine Specs

12 Toyota 3UZ-FE 4.3-Liter: 5.5/10

Toyota 3UZ-FE Ratings

Here’s how our team rates Toyota 3UZ-FE in two key categories:

The 3UZ-FE 4.3-liter V8 is the most potent version of Toyota’s UZ engine family, churning out between 280 and 305 hp. And if that amount of power isn’t enough, you can tune the 3UZ-FE to offer better returns. The 3UZ-FE is found in the 2000 to 2006 Lexus LS430, 2005 to 2008 Lexus GS430, and 2001 to 2010 Lexus SC430. As to be expected with any 4.3-liter V8, fuel consumption is anything but wallet-friendly.

Pros

• Tuner-friendly
• Reliable and durable

Cons

• Reports of unintended acceleration

Engine Specs

11 Toyota T24A-FTS 2.4-Liter: 6/10

Toyota T24A-FTS Ratings

Here’s how our team rates Toyota T24A-FTS in two key categories:

The T24A-FTS engine is a turbocharged, 2.4-liter, inline-4 engine that can be found under the hood of Toyota’s all-new Tacoma pickup truck. It replaces the V6 which was available in the previous generation Tacoma, and provides comparable power and torque figures, but with improved economy. A hybrid i-FORCE Max version is also available, which sees power soar to 326 horsepower, in addition to 465 lb-ft of torque. Long-term reliability is unknown, but if Toyota’s track record is anything to go by, new owners should have nothing to worry about.

Pros

• More economical than the V6 it replaced
• Provides excellent power and torque figures

Cons

• Less powerful than the hybrid alternative
• Long-term reliability is unknown

Engine Specs

10 Toyota 4U-GSE 2.4-Liter: 6/10

Toyota 4U-GSE Ratings

Here’s how our team rates Toyota 4U-GSE in two key categories:

The 4U-GSE engine differs from others in the list due to its design as a boxer engine. This means the pistons oppose each other, rather than being assembled in a line, as per a traditional inline engine. The design is shared with that of the Subaru BRZ, the GR86’s sports car brother. Power output is modest, but the lightweight GR86 doesn’t hanker for much power and instead prioritizes simple driving pleasure, rather than outright performance.

Pros

• 23 more horsepower than the GT86 engine that preceded it
• Exciting 7,500 rpm rev limiter

Cons

• Less powerful than comparable sports cars
• Fuel economy could be more impressive for an engine with such a modest output

Engine Specs

9 Toyota 1MZ-FE 3.0-Liter: 6/10

Toyota 1MZ-FE Ratings

Here’s how our team rates the Toyota 1MZ-FE in two key categories:

Toyota introduced the 1MZ-FE in 1993 to improve the performance of its sedans and SUVs, like the 1993 to 2002 Toyota Camry, 1998 to 2003 Lexus RX 300, and 2000 to 2004 Toyota Avalon. Although outdated now, this V6 engine added a premium touch to some otherwise easily forgotten models throughout the 1990s and early ’00s.

Pros

• Solid power output
• Affordable and reliable
• Good tuning potential

Cons

• Reports of oil sludge
• Overheating
• Unintended acceleration

Engine Specs

8 Toyota A25A-FKS 2.5-Liter: 6/10

Toyota A25A-FKS Ratings

Here’s how our team rates the Toyota A25A-FKS in two key categories:

The Toyota A25A-FKS 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine was introduced in 2017, and equipped with an electric water pump in addition to a D-4S direct injection system. The idea was to boost performance and improve efficiency. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder puts out between 203 and 207 hp, depending on the model it finds itself in. It’s available in the 2018 RAV4, 2017 Camry, and 2018 Avalon.

Pros

• Affordable engine with a fairly high boost
• Reliable

Cons

• With lots of electronics, sensors, and small parts, the engine may be prone to failure
• Noisy acceleration
• Reports of engine coolant bypass valve failure

Engine Specs

7 Toyota 8AR-FTS 2.0-Liter: 6.5/10

Toyota 8AR-FTS Ratings

Here’s how our team rates Toyota 8AR-FTS in two key categories:

The 8AR-FTS 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder is the most powerful member of the Toyota AR engine family, with a maximum output of 235 hp. It was first installed on the 2015 Lexus NX200t and later mounted on the Lexus IS 300, Lexus RX 300, and Toyota Crown.

Pros

• Features a “Stop & Start” function to reduce fuel consumption
• Extremely light and durable

Cons

• Oil leaks
• Reports of grinding sound on cold starts

Engine Specs

6 Toyota 2AR-FSE 2.5-Liter: 7/10

Toyota 2AR-FSE Ratings

Here’s how our team rates Toyota 2AR-FSE in two key categories:

The Toyota 2AR-FSE achieves a thermal efficiency of 40% and an output of up to 223 hp, making it one of the best Japanese four-cylinder engines out there. A hybrid setup of the 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder was equipped under the hoods of 2011 Camrys, and Toyota’s 2013 RAV4.

Pros

• 40% thermal efficiency
• Reliable

Cons

• Oil leaks
• Excessive oil consumption
• Unintended acceleration

Engine Specs

5 Toyota F33A-FTV 3.3-Liter: 7/10

Toyota F33A-FTV Ratings

Here’s how our team rates the Toyota F33A-FTV in two key categories:

The F33A-FTV 3.3-liter turbo is the first V6 diesel engine built by Toyota (and a reliable diesel engine at that). It made its debut in the 2021 Land Cruiser 300 Series and was later introduced in the 2022 Lexus LX 500d.

Pros

• More powerful than its 4.5-liter turbo-diesel V8 replacement
• Light
• Features a new electronically-controlled fan for more efficient and quieter move

Cons

• Concerns about emissions control systems in Toyota F33A-FTV-powered vehicles
• Reports of excessive oil consumption

Engine Specs

4 Toyota 2GR-FE 3.5-Liter: 7/10

Toyota 2GR-FE Ratings

Here’s how our team rates Toyota 2GR-FE in two key categories:

The 2GR-FE was released in 2003, and it’s the most powerful member of the Toyota GR V6 engine family (and there’s a reason it made our list of most durable V6 engines ever). With its output ranging from 268 to 314 hp, the 2GR-FE has been fitted to several Toyota and Lexus vehicles, including the 2005 to 2012 Toyota Avalon, 2006 to 2011 Toyota Camry, 2006 to 2018 Lexus ES 350, and 2009 to 2015 Lexus RX 350.

Pros

• Lightweight all-aluminum construction
• Reliable
• Great tuning potential

Cons

• Squealing from the idler pulley
• Excessive engine oil consumption

Engine Specs

3 Toyota B58 3.0-Liter: 9/10

Toyota B58 Ratings

Here’s how our team rates Toyota B58 in two key categories:

The Toyota Supra is one of, if not the most iconic Japanese sports car nameplates. Almost as iconic as the car itself, is the engine that powers the Supra. Granted, the latest A91 Supra doesn’t yet boast the same legendary status of the 1990s model, but the turbocharged 3.0-liter lump that sits up front is doing a solid job of acquiring impressive status in the sports car world. Shared with the current BMW Z4, the B58 engine provides over 380 horsepower and nearly 370 lb-ft of torque, all of which achieving an impressive combined figure of 26 MPG. Some owners have noted higher-than-usual oil consumption, although no serious concerns are widespread.

Pros

• Hugely impressive power output
• Remarkable fuel consumption for the performance provided

Cons

• Higher oil consumption than the 2.0-liter variant

Engine Specs

2 Toyota G16E-GTS 1.6-Liter: 9/10

Toyota G16E-GTS Ratings

Here’s how our team rates the Toyota G16E-GTS in two key categories:

The Toyota G16E-GTS 1.6-liter three-cylinder is every tuner’s dream engine, as it can produce way beyond 300 hp with a new exhaust, bigger turbo, and intercooler. The G16E-GTS was installed on the 2020 to present GR Yaris and 2022 to present GR Corolla. Few engines do so much as this inline-3 to demonstrate just how far and efficient engines have come in the last few years; a 300-horsepower inline-3 would have seemed ludicrous just a decade ago – especially in a production hatchback.

Pros

• Compact and lightweight
• Tuner-friendly

Cons

• Cylinder heads in 3-cylinder engines are not the most durable
• Reports of VVT issues and oil leaks

Engine Specs

1 Toyota V35A-FTS 3.5-Liter: 10/10

Toyota V35A-FTS Ratings

Here’s how our team rates the Toyota V35A-FTS in two key categories:

The V35A-FTS 3.5-liter V6 is Toyota’s first turbocharged V-engine and the most powerful member of the Dynamic Force engine family. With output as high as 416 hp, the V35A-FTS V6 engine is found in the 2021 Tundra, 2017 Lexus LS 500, 2021 Lexus LX 600, and 2022 Sequoia Hybrid.

Pros

• Quiet
• The most powerful Dynamic Force engine

Cons

• As a direct injection engine, it may be sensitive to fuel quality

Engine Specs

Sources: Toyota, CarComplaints, Be Forward AutopartsFuel Economy.gov, CarBuzz