The Lexus 8AR-FTS is a 2,000 cc, inline-four twin-turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2013 and 2023. It features direct fuel injection, dual variable valve timing (VVT-iW), and two sequential turbochargers delivering high power with improved efficiency. The twin-turbo system enables strong low-rpm torque for responsive acceleration without the lag typical of single large turbos.
Fitted to models such as the IS 200t, NX 200t, RC 200t, and RX 200t, the 8AR-FTS was engineered for sporty performance combined with everyday drivability. Emissions compliance was achieved through direct injection and advanced exhaust aftertreatment, allowing all units to meet Euro 6 standards across markets.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves due to absence of port fuel injection, leading to rough idle and reduced performance. This issue, highlighted in Toyota Technical Service Bulletin T-SB-0097-17, is exacerbated by frequent short-trip driving. Lexus introduced revised piston designs and updated ECU calibration in later production cycles to mitigate deposit accumulation.
Production years 2013–2015 meet Euro 6b standards; 2016–2023 models meet Euro 6d-TEMP or Euro 6d depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Lexus 8AR-FTS is a 2,000 cc inline-four twin-turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact and mid-size performance vehicles (2013-2023). It combines direct gasoline injection with dual variable valve timing and sequential twin-turbocharging to deliver high specific output and rapid throttle response. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it balances dynamic performance with improved fuel economy over naturally aspirated predecessors.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,000 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged (sequential) | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 94.6 mm | |
| Power output | 175–235 kW (238–320 PS) | |
| Torque | 350–400 Nm @ 1,600–4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct injection (GDI) with 200 bar pressure | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6b (pre-2016); Euro 6d-TEMP/d (post-2016) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Sequential twin-turbo (IHI) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | 0W-20 synthetic (API SN/ILSAC GF-5) | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The sequential twin-turbo system provides strong low-end torque ideal for urban driving but requires strict adherence to 10,000 km oil change intervals using 0W-20 synthetic oil to prevent intake valve carbon buildup. Direct injection increases combustion chamber temperatures, accelerating deposit formation during short-trip operation. Use of top-tier fuel meeting ASTM D4814 standards is recommended to minimize injector fouling. ECU calibration updates (per T-SB-0097-17) reduce idle speed and increase fuel pulse width during warm-up to mitigate carbon accumulation. Failure to follow maintenance protocols may lead to loss of power, misfires, and increased emissions, triggering limp-home mode. No aftermarket tuning is officially supported.
Oil Specs: Requires 0W-20 synthetic oil meeting API SN/ILSAC GF-5 (Lexus Maintenance Guide 2023). Supersedes ACEA A5/B5 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6b certification applies to 2013–2015 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Post-2016 models meet Euro 6d-TEMP/d depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Higher outputs (235 kW) require premium unleaded fuel (RON 95 or higher) per Lexus TIS Doc. E2017-087.
Lexus Technical Information System (TIS): Docs E2017-087, E2018-091, SIB 13 01 21
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
Toyota Technical Service Bulletin T-SB-0097-17
ASTM International: D4814 Standard Specification for Automotive Spark-Ignition Engine Fuel
The Lexus 8AR-FTS was used across Lexus's IS, NX, RC, and RX platforms with transverse mounting and licensed to Toyota for use in the GR Yaris. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake runners in the RC 200t and strengthened cylinder head bolts in the IS 200t-and from 2016 the facelifted NX 200t adopted updated ECU calibration and revised piston crown geometry to reduce carbon deposits, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front right side of the cylinder block near the water pump housing (Lexus TIS E2017-087). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('H' for 8AR-FTS). Pre-2016 models feature a silver intake manifold with black plastic cover; post-2016 units have a matte black intake manifold with revised internal geometry. Critical differentiation from 2GR-FKS: 8AR-FTS uses sequential twin-turbos and direct injection only, while 2GR-FKS is naturally aspirated with port injection. Service parts require exact model year verification — pistons, injectors, and ECU maps differ between pre- and post-facelift versions. Timing chain kits for 2013–2015 engines are incompatible with 2016+ models due to revised tensioner design (Lexus SIB 18 02 03).
The 8AR-FTS's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup, with elevated incidence in urban stop-start driving. Toyota Technical Service Bulletin T-SB-0097-17 confirms widespread deposit accumulation in early models, with up to 40% of vehicles requiring cleaning before 100,000 km under severe usage conditions, while VCA MOT data shows a 22% increase in emissions-related failures linked to this fault. Short-trip driving and infrequent high-RPM operation accelerate deposit formation, making regular oil changes and fuel quality critical.
Analysis derived from Lexus technical bulletins (2013-2023) and UK VCA MOT failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about LEXUS 8AR-FTS-TWIN-TURBO.
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