Efficiency and lower CO2 emissions are two things.

The Toyota Land Cruiser is a popular SUV for both off-roaders as well as regular car-buyers. The 381-horsepower (284 kilowatts) 5.7-Liter V8 gasoline engine is still the only choice in the United States. It’s well-known for its powerful output and ability to tow.

It seems that the ToyotaV8 power plant options (either diesel or gasoline) are heading towards the end of their useful life for the new 300 Series Land Cruiser.

The news was confirmed by an interview with CarAdvice with Bernard Nadal, head of product planning for Toyota Australia. Nada responded to questions about the rumors that V8s would be dropped. It is generally to improve efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions. This is the global trend.

Two things are at stake: efficiency and a reduction in CO2 emissions. According to the Australian car magazine, “well-placed sources”, this could mean that a smaller but more powerful turbocharged V6 engine has been developed. Their reports indicate that the Land Cruiser 300 Series will launch in 2021 with either a V6 turbo-diesel engine or a turbo-gasoline one. After a few years, a V6 hybrid powerplant will be available.

The reduction of CO2 emissions, on the other hand has been a worldwide movement in the past decade to decrease mankind’s carbon footprint. Brands should follow the lead of companies that adhere to Earth-saving measures.

We don’t care if the V8 is going extinct, but we do hope Toyota doesn’t forget the Land Cruiser’s great off-roading capabilities and enormous towing power. We think the world would accept the V6’s downsizing.