3SGTE Engine

Specifications

The Toyota 3SGTE engine is a legendary 2.0-liter (1,998 cc) turbocharged inline-four engine, developed as a high-performance member of Toyota’s 3S engine family and widely praised for its strength, reliability, and motorsport heritage. It features a durable cast-iron block combined with a Yamaha-designed aluminum DOHC 16-valve cylinder head, delivering excellent airflow, high-RPM stability, and long-term durability under boost. With a square 86 mm × 86 mm bore and stroke, a belt-driven valvetrain, sequential fuel injection, and under-piston oil squirters for improved cooling and piston longevity, the 3SGTE was engineered to handle sustained high-performance use.

Across five generations, Toyota continually refined the engine through improvements in turbocharging systems, cylinder head design, engine management, and compression ratios, which ranged from 8.5:1 in early models to as high as 9.0:1 in later versions. 

Redline limits varied between 6,800 and 7,200 rpm depending on generation, while power output steadily increased from approximately 182 horsepower in early applications to as much as 256 horsepower at 6,200 rpm in the later Caldina GT-Four models. Torque figures also grew significantly, ranging from around 250 N·m (184 lb-ft) to a strong 324 N·m (239 lb-ft), providing excellent mid-range response and drivability. Proven in iconic platforms such as the Celica GT-Four and MR2 Turbo, and refined in later Caldina models, the 3S-GTE has earned a lasting reputation as one of Toyota’s most capable and tunable turbocharged engines, remaining highly respected among enthusiasts, racers, and performance builders worldwide.   

Compatible Models

Toyota Celica GT-Four (ST165, ST185, ST205)

In the Celica GT-Four, the 3SGTE engine was configured for all-wheel-drive performance to meet World Rally Championship homologation requirements. Early ST165 and ST185 models used lower-compression versions with CT26 turbochargers producing between 185 and 225 hp, while the later ST205 featured a revised Gen 3 engine with a CT20B turbo, higher airflow head design, and outputs around 245 hp, delivering strong mid-range torque and proven rally durability.

Toyota MR2 Turbo (SW20)

The MR2 Turbo utilized a rear mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration of the 3SGTE, tuned for sharp throttle response and balanced handling. Power output ranged from about 200 to 245 hp depending on market and generation, with slightly different intake, exhaust, and intercooler layouts to suit the compact engine bay, making the MR2 one of the most engaging applications of the 3S-GTE.

Toyota Caldina GT-T (ST215) and GT-Four (ST246)

In the Caldina, the 3SGTE appeared in its most refined form, featuring later-generation updates such as higher compression, improved engine management, and a revised turbocharger. These AWD sport wagons produced up to 256 hp and 324 N·m of torque, prioritizing smooth power delivery and everyday usability while still offering the strongest factory performance of any 3S-GTE variant.

Frequently Asked Questions