Quote:
Originally Posted by xantonin
Why did they discontinue their support of the GE engines?
Can't be mileage. My 2ZZ-GE gets 31 MPG an average, and I drive like an asshole.
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Due to the changes on how engine power, gas consumption, and emissions (the last one particularly in Europe) are currently measured and regulated. Along with a major decrease in North American Celica GT-S sales after 2003. Demand of high output naturally aspirated engines had fallen so dramatically for Toyota that starting around 2004 they began mulling around whether or not to continue competing with Honda and the RSX/S (and later Si).
Why? Simply put: the 2ZZ-GE (as great as it is) was a little too small (1.8L) and wasn't quite as technologically advance as the K20 series (which had DOHC VTEC which has cam-phasing on both camshafts and put out greater gas milage). And lets not even get into the aftermarket scene of the K20...
You will see however, Toyota had anticipated the market correctly and got out early. The RX-8 simply doesn't sell anymore and was even discontinued in europe due to emissions. Honda in North America has discontinued the NSX and the S2000. The 2012 Civic Si is going to have the K24 at ~200bhp from the Acura TSX. A 2.0L high rev to 2.4L lower rev + torque, It reminds me of Celica to tC (or in my eyes 9th Gen XRS to 10th Gen XRS).
There are many factors you can consider, this is just my reasoning (so take it as you will). I'm sure no-one but the execs at Toyota has the 100% correct and real answer for you.