[NASTY99Z28]

Originally Posted by DGthe3

I'm kinda 50-50 on whether the 4.3 will be the new generation of V6s mentioned or if they are talking about a new set of 60 degree V6s for use in passenger cars & crossovers. After all, it is an all new V6 engine design but at the same time, the current High-Feature V6 family is a decade old (slightly older than the gen IV small block in fact) and so is due for replacement pretty soon.

Chances are slim that we'll see V6s that can run in V4 mode in passenger cars. GM seems to like the idea of sticking to 60 degree DOHC V6s for their cars & crossovers, but leaving the big v8-derrived, pushrod activated 90 degree V6s for trucks. GM's AFM system requires the engine to use pushrods. Honda has an overhead cam cylinder deactivation system but it shuts down an entire bank of cylinders. I can only imagine the trickery that must go on to keep the unwanted vibrations to a minimum.

What I would like to see with the next gen of V6s is a small 3.1L that cranks out around 270 hp/230 ft-lbs with reasonable efficiency (probably besting the 2L turbos). That would be enough for most of the smaller vehicles that use V6s. But then have a larger one, say 3.8L, that is up at about 350 hp and 290 ft-lbs (like you mentioned) for full size cars, large crossovers, and the Camaro. Off the large one, you can make your turbo6 with similar output as the LT1 V8, for applications where it doesn't make sense to actually use the V8. There would be no point in doing a turbo version of the smaller one as it would likely barely best the big V6 in output.


Because turbo 4s and NA 6s are usually offer similar hp & torque output.

Why a 3.1 with less power? A 3.8 would be the same size dimensionally and fuel mileage would probably be to close and not justify the lack of power. Plus if they stick with one engine it will be cheaper to produce.