V6s

V6s refer to V6 engines, a class of internal combustion engines that have six cylinders arranged in two banks of three around a central crankshaft, forming a V shape. The angle between the banks is commonly 60 or 90 degrees. This configuration is a compromise between the compact size of a V layout and the smoothness and power delivery of multi-cylinder designs. V6s are contrasted with inline-six engines, which use a single straight row of cylinders.

Design and performance characteristics vary by application, but generally V6s aim to balance power, torque, and packaging efficiency. They are smaller and lighter than inline-six engines while offering more torque than many inline-fours. V6s can be naturally aspirated or turbocharged and often employ technologies such as direct injection, variable valve timing, and cylinder deactivation to improve fuel efficiency or performance. Some 60-degree designs rely on balance shafts or other countermeasures to reduce vibration, while certain 90-degree layouts have advantages in transverse mounting for front-wheel-drive vehicles.

Usage and development: since their introduction, V6 engines have been widely used in passenger cars, SUVs, and light trucks. Major manufacturers—including Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Ford, GM, Hyundai, and others—have produced numerous V6 families to suit front- and rear-wheel-drive platforms. Notable characteristics across families include a range of displacements from around 1.8 to 4.0 liters, varying valve-train configurations, and, in modern models, enhancements aimed at improving efficiency and emission performance. V6s remain a common choice for buyers seeking a blend of strong mid-range torque and vehicle convenience without the size penalty of larger V8s.