All you need to know about inline engines

You’ve likely heard of engines like the 4-cylinder, V6, V8, and maybe even a V10 or V12. These engines are commonly found in many Orlando Toyota vehicles like the Toyota Corolla, Camry, 4Runner, you name it.  These engines provide ample power to propel our vehicles forward or give a sporty feel when you press the gas pedal. While shopping for a typical Toyota vehicle, you won’t come across many different engines beyond those above. But, with the return of the Toyota Supra this coming year you’ve likely heard the term “straight-six engine.” While this engine type isn’t common for the typical commuter vehicle, straight or inline engines have been used on several vehicles throughout the ages. Before the new Supra arrives on our lot at Toyota of Orlando, check out this guide on inline engines and know what you’re driving.

The inline engine and the legendary Toyota Supra

It’s been some time since Toyota has used an inline engine in a mass-produced vehicle until the reintroduction of the Orlando Toyota Supra set to release this year. While they haven’t been used in vehicles in quite some time, inline engines are very fuel-efficient and create a good balance for vehicles that use them. But straight engines are larger and require more room in engine compartments which leads to a more expensive sticker price for a car as opposed to one with a more comparable V configured engine.

One Orlando Toyota inline engine that’s been especially legendary was the Toyota 2JZ – GTE engine that was built into the 1991 Toyota Aristo V first and then the Toyota Supra RZ. This engine was specified to have 280 horsepower stock and then 320 in 1993. But the reason why this engine is particularly popular among Orlando Toyota drivers is its ability to obtain over 1,000 horsepower without changing many stock components in the engine.

What makes an inline engine unique is the way the cylinders are aligned. Rather than using a V configuration like many common Orlando Toyota engines, straight engines align their cylinder in a straight line and can be positioned in nearly any orientation in the engine compartment and even be slanted. These engines are inherently balanced and smooth whereas horizontally opposed engines, while more compact and compatible with modern car designs, are largely unbalanced and somewhat less efficient. While the 2020 Toyota Supra comes equipped with a straight six engine, there are also straight four, straight eight, and even straight five engines that have been used on a variety of vehicles. 

Where the modern Toyota Supra comes in

The 2020 Orlando Toyota Supra is set to be released this year and is being engineered with a straight six inline engine to hold true to the origins of the iconic sports car many drivers love. While it won’t match the aftermarket compatibility and capability of the 2JZ – GTE engine, it still packs a powerful 335 horsepower and maintains a 0-60 mph time of 4.1 seconds. The new Toyota Supra will be available in trim levels such as the 3.0, 3.0 Premium, and limited Launch Edition.

If you have more questions on how inline engines work or the new 2020 Toyota Supra, come visit Toyota of Orlando today! We’re located at 3575 Vineland Road and open seven days a week.