Toyota's New 450-HP Engine: Which Models Should Get It?

0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It starts at 450 horsepower and has the potential to exceed 600. The engine is modeled after the legendary 2JZ, and speculation is running wild about which models could benefit most.

The Lexus LBX, the brand's smallest crossover, is one candidate. It's already offered in a Morizo RR version with a 300-horsepower three-cylinder and six-speed manual, but there's no confirmation of a US release. If it does arrive, the new engine could push it above the GR Corolla in performance.

The 2026 RAV4 is now exclusively hybrid, with the top PHEV making 320 horsepower. With a new GR Sport trim adding a sharper look, a hotter performance variant could challenge fast German SUVs. The Corolla Cross, a dependable seller, also has a GR Sport version in Japan that isn't coming to the US, but a 450-horsepower version would be like a Hyundai Kona N on steroids, especially if priced under $50,000.

The Prius, which has gained a genuine personality in its current generation, already offers a 220-horsepower PHEV. Toyota has hinted at higher-performance hybrids, but a true AWD GR Prius with 450 horsepower would threaten the VW Golf R and Subaru WRX.

The Celica and MR2 revivals are heavily rumored but not fully confirmed. The Celica's return has been hinted at but not officially announced. The MR2 seems more likely, as Toyota has been testing the new engine in a mid-engined mule that feels like a preview. A new MR2 would be a welcome addition, especially with the Porsche 718 discontinued.

The GR Corolla, already an extreme hatchback with 300 horsepower and torque-vectoring AWD, would be a natural fit for the 450-horsepower engine. Finally, the GR86 takes the top spot because the GR Supra is on its way out, and a hotter GR86 could fill the gap until the next Supra arrives.

A four-cylinder Supra has already been rejected by buyers, but the GR86 would be the perfect home for this powertrain.