Toyota introduces more powerful engine in new Altis

Just weeks after its introduction in the local market, the new Toyota Corolla Altis is already producing excitement in an otherwise dull automotive industry. The new Altis is eliciting rave reviews for its new cool, sleek styling and bigger dimensions aside from its luxurious features.

But one that makes the new Altis stand out is what lurks beneath its hood – the Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence (VVT-i) technology engine.

The VVT-i delivers a new level of performance and efficiency virtually unheard of from other engines in the market today. The 1800cc 1ZZ-FE engine of the Altis 1.8G produces a maximum output of 145 hp at 6,000 rpm and a maximum torque of 188 Nm at 4,200 rpm. The Altis 1.6, on the other hand, delivers a maximum 116 hp output and a class-leading 160 Nm of torque.

How Toyota achieved such engine performance is no longer a secret. Through the VVT-i technology, the engine’s valve timing or the duration that the intake valves open and close to draw in air and fuel is varied, meaning it is either prolonged or shortened as the driver wishes.

The variable valve timing technology of other carmakers is a lot different, Toyota says. "The others utilize a complex hydraulic system that runs through the camshaft to activate the cam lobes which in turn activates the valve. There are two cycles involved and the transition between these two cycles result in an engine lag," it said it a statement.

In the VVT-i, a valve controller with four chambers is attached to the intake camshafts. Controlled by the computer, the valve controller advance or retard valve timing as oil is pumped to its left or right chambers. By changing the position of the camshaft, Toyota made its VVT-i engine operate as a full-time 16-valve system while enjoying the benefits of variable valve timing.

At low rpm or when running at a low, sustained speed, the VVT-i advances the valve timing to lessen the time the intake valves open. This results in fuel efficiency. At high rpm, on the other hand, the valve timing is slowed, allowing more air and fuel mixture into the combustion chamber to produce more power.