Toyota Patent suggests that Lexus ISF Twin-Turbo V8 could be on the horizon

As it turns out, V8s are not the only option for Japanese brands.

Toyota has shifted its focus away from V8s. The Lexus LS, which is a V6-only vehicle (with turbochargers and hybridization), is now rumored to be the next generation of Toyota Tundra. It is rumored that it will also get a smaller twin-turbo V6. We have heard rumblings that a twin-turbocharged V8 will be coming to a Lexus product with performance-oriented features, as shown by a 2020 patent.

The claim was filed by Toyota in September 2020 (first discovered on the GR86.com forum), shortly after learning that development for the Lexus LC F had stalled. Many drawings in the patent reveal the engine’s hot V layout. The turbochargers are located in the valley between the two cylinder banks. This reduces lag and improves throttle response. The patent details also indicate that a single-turbo layout could be possible. Toyota could theoretically offer two versions of the engine to meet different power and efficiency needs. The twin-turbo should produce at least 600 horsepower (447 megawatts).

Although a patent does not guarantee that Toyota will offer the engine in any product, it is possible that Toyota will. However, it seems probable that the engine could be included in the next generation Lexus’ performance cars, which include the LC F, LC F and IS F. This would explain why the current IS500 doesn’t have a full-blown F model despite its 472 hp (352 kW). Lexus wanted to make room for the turbo eight.

It’s possible that the new engine will not be exclusive to Toyota’s luxury brand. The engine could be found under the next Tundra high-performance off-road model. This would allow the full-size pickup to compete with the Ford F-150 Raptor or RAM 1500 TRX. This machine could help Toyota regain its Baja 1000 dominance. It was established in 1990s with Ivan Stewart driving a TRD-engineered Trophy Truck. We hope that Toyota will allow this engine to spread the lineup, and avoid the bait-and switch bummer that was Cadillac’s Blackwing twin-turbo 8-cylinder V8.

Toyota has not made any announcements regarding the engine’s details or expected arrival on the market. However, we anticipate it arriving in time for the Lexus LC’s anticipated facelift for 2023.