The automotive trade has advanced over time as emissions, gas financial system, and security rules have modified. Whereas there are nonetheless fairly just a few bigger engines accessible at this time, many automakers now depend on smaller four- and six-cylinder engines with turbochargers that may ship energy ranges just like hefty V8 engines whereas usually producing fewer emissions and returning higher gas financial system.
In case you’re purchasing for a V6- or V8-powered automobile, we’ve acquired you lined. This overview explains the key variations between the 2 engine varieties, and we’ll dive into a number of the causes one may be a more sensible choice for you than the opposite. Let’s get rolling.
V6 vs. V8: The Highlights
The one distinction between V6 and V8 engines is the variety of cylinders, proper? Assume once more.

When a V6 Engine is the Proper Alternative
Whereas many individuals most likely favor a giant V8 when it’s accessible, selecting a six-cylinder engine doesn’t imply giving up on efficiency, energy, or functionality.
- Six-cylinder engines, together with inline-six choices, usually provide a greater steadiness of energy and gas effectivity than V8 engines do, making them effectively suited to drivers who often tow however need mproved gas financial system on on a regular basis journeys.
- V6 and inline-six-cylinder engines are often smoother and extra subdued than their eight-cylinder counterparts, giving many autos a extra relaxed, refined feeling on the street.
- Six-cylinder engines are usually lighter than V8s, which improves dealing with and driving dynamics for a lot of autos.
- Normally, six-cylinder engines are cheaper to supply and purchase than V8s.
Some automakers produce inline-six-cylinder engines, which place all six cylinders in a row as a substitute of the three-by-three setup seen in most V6 engines. The design provides engines higher steadiness, making them smoother in operation. That stated, V6 engines are shorter, making them higher for autos with restricted under-hood area.
When a V8 Engine is the Proper Alternative
Gasoline-powered V8 engines stay workhorses of the automotive world, however they’re way more superior than the gas-guzzling engines from years previous.
- V8 engines are nice for individuals who tow often. They usually present higher torque and horsepower and are effectively suited to heavier hundreds, although some fashionable turbocharged six-cylinder engines can match or exceed their output.
- V8 engines stay a more sensible choice for full-size vans and SUVs, particularly for drivers who prioritize most towing capability, efficiency, or long-term heavy use.
- Individuals who need a beefy sound ought to go for a V8.
Standard Automobiles Providing V8 Engines
| Vehicles | Vans | SUVs |
| Chevrolet Corvette | Ford F-150 | Chevrolet Tahoe |
| Ford Mustang | Chevrolet Silverado | GMC Yukon |
| BMW M5 | Ram 1500 | Cadillac Escalade |
Standard Automobiles Providing V6 Engines
| Vehicles | Vans | SUVs |
| Audi A7 | Ford F-150 | Honda Pilot |
| Genesis G70 | Toyota Tundra | Genesis GV70 |
| Acura TLX | Ram 1500 | Acura MDX |
Editor’s Word: Now we have up to date this text since its preliminary publication. Russ Heaps contributed to the report.
