Originally Posted By: parimento1
How would you guys like to see smaller V-6 engines in midsize cars that are smoother than 4 cylinder engines, but get similar gas mileage. One that comes to mind is the old Mazda 2.5L and the Dodge 2.7L as notorious for sludge as it was, it got pretty good MPG even with the 4 spd auto. Toyota announced today thet will be producing a 2.7L V-6 with a 6spd automatic, so maybe this is the future. Honestly, who needs 270hp in a camry family sedan? I'd rather have 190hp from a small V-6 and call it a day and keep my license. I also like the smaller V-6s better than the I-4 because it is much smoother and much less noisy/thrashy at high RPM. Let's hear what you guys think!
I think the problem is that trendsetter for automotive novodays is the Europe where econopolitics is the deciding factor for the displacement. So artificially expensive displacement is always optimized towards more performance. Any engine opting more static displacement should also offset the extra taxes so being merely more efficient (although likely more dependable) is never enough.
When it is the engineers to decide for the displacement, however, there are economical and ecological six cylinders. Still, seemingly, more moving mass of the sixes is not offset with speedier moving mass of the fours under two liters, and Europe's generous limits for the NOx'es are not encouraging for the engine designers for slower, leaner burners where sixes could excel. Also add the ever dynamic ethics of the consumersism under the luxury imagery of higher displacement that artificially driven by the taxation politics here we have the market without much choice.
Having an older car gives some dodging from the taxes here. Looking the numbers for give and takes, it looks like 3 to 4 liters for a family car would just be my balance. I got the smallest GM v6 which, I've just learned, is one of the most harsh ones. For trying to start an already idling engine numerous times I had to replace the starter pinion, it is that smooth. 70mph cruising and coasting is only 1 dB of difference. I personally never witness a smoother 4, idling, cruising or revving under load.
