The 2ARFXE, also listed as the 2AR-FXE, is a Toyota engine that is also used in some Lexus models. It’s a 2.5-litre inline-four petrol motor which entered production in 2012. Over the years, it powered plenty of Toyota/Lexus cars with the NX300h being amongst the most notable. The 2AR-FXE motor prioritises fuel economy over performance via the design choice (Atkinson Cycle).
It’s a VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence) motor that uses DOCH and has 16 valves. The 2AR-FXE is suitable only for hybrid powertrains. It develops 114 kW of power and 206 Nm of torque (without the hybrid). Thanks to a 12.5:1 compression ratio, the engine’s thermal efficiency is quite high.
A vital feature of the 2AR-FXE is its use of the Atkinson cycle. This solution lengthens the expansion stroke relative to the compression stroke, improving fuel efficiency but slightly reducing power output compared to standard Otto-cycle engines.
Toyota and Lexus owners know the 2AR-FXE as a durable motor. The most notable mechanical issues are related to the water pump and cooling systems, as well as the hybrid battery.