Toyota’s AR engine series began its history relatively recently – the first units appeared in 2008. At the moment, these are popular engines that are respected by drivers of Japanese cars to a greater extent in the United States and Canada. Although, some members of the family are spreading all over the world.
The 2.5-liter Toyota 2AR-FE engine has been assembled since 2008 at factories in Japan and the United States. The motor is installed on a wide range of front-wheel drive models of the concern, including Lexus and Scion. All versions of this unit are equipped with the Dual VVT-i variable valve timing system.
AR family: 1AR-FE, 2AR-FE, 2AR-FSE, 2AR-FXE, 5AR-FE, 6AR-FSE, 8AR-FTS.
Specifications
| Production years | since 2008 |
| Displacement, cc | 2494 |
| Fuel system | injector MPI |
| Power output, hp | 169 – 181 |
| Torque output, Nm | 225 – 235 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum R4 |
| Block head | aluminum 16v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 90 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 98 |
| Compression ratio | 10.4 |
| Features | ACIS and ETCS-i |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | Dual VVT-i |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-30 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 4.4 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 3/4/5 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Toyota RAV4 2014) — city — highway — combined |
11.4 6.8 8.5 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~300 000 |
| Weight, kg | 141 |
The engine was installed on:
- Toyota Alphard 3 (AH30) since 2015;
- Toyota Camry 6 (XV40) in 2009 – 2011, Camry 7 (XV50) in 2011 – 2017, Camry 8 (XV70) since 2017;
- Toyota RAV4 3 (XA30) in 2008 – 2012, RAV4 4 (XA40) since 2012;
- Lexus ES250 6 (XV60) since 2012;
- Scion tC AGT20 in 2010 – 2016.
Disadvantages of the 2AR-FE engine
A fairly good family of motors – both in terms of design and operational parameters. The units are quite durable and practically do not show any problems. The exceptions are the characteristic knocks from the VVTi clutch in a cold state, the pump leaks, which are solved by replacing these components.

Frequently asked questions about the Toyota 2AR-FE
How much power does the Toyota 2AR-FE make?
The Toyota 2AR-FE develops 169 - 181 hp and 225 - 235 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Toyota 2AR-FE take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 4.4 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-30.
Does the Toyota 2AR-FE have a timing belt or chain?
The Toyota 2AR-FE uses a timing chain.
Is the Toyota 2AR-FE turbocharged?
No, the Toyota 2AR-FE is naturally aspirated.
Does the Toyota 2AR-FE need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Toyota 2AR-FE has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Toyota 2AR-FE last?
The typical lifespan of the Toyota 2AR-FE is ~300 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Toyota 2AR-FE?
Toyota RAV4 2014: city 11.4, highway 6.8, combined 8.5 L/100 km.
What cars was the Toyota 2AR-FE installed on?
Toyota Alphard 3 (AH30) since 2015; Toyota Camry 6 (XV40) in 2009 - 2011, Camry 7 (XV50) in 2011 - 2017, Camry 8 (XV70) since 2017; Toyota RAV4 3 (XA30) in 2008 - 2012, RAV4 4 (XA40) since 2012; Lexus ES250 6 (XV60) since 2012; Scion tC AGT20 in 2010 - 2016.






I recently imported a 2013 Toyota Camry 2.5L dual VVT-i from Japan. I leave in Zimbabwe. What engine oil should I use in this car.
0w20