The 4E-FTE: Toyota’s Smallest Turbo Monster

The Toyota 4E-FTE isn’t a Supra engine. It isn’t a 2JZ. It’s not even in the same conversation as the 3S-GTE or 4A-GE.
But hidden inside a lightweight hatchback — the Starlet GT Turbo and Glanza V — was one of Toyota’s most overbuilt small-displacement engines.

This 1.3L turbocharged four-cylinder made just 133 horsepower stock, but thanks to forged internals, oil squirters, and Toyota’s clever turbo engineering, it could handle double the power with ease. Tuners quickly pushed it to 200+ horsepower, and even beyond 300 with upgrades.

So why did the 4E-FTE stay forgotten? Because it lived in the shadow of bigger names like the 2JZ and 3S-GTE. But for those who know, it’s one of Toyota’s purest hidden gems — proof that fun doesn’t need big displacement.

👉 In this video, we dive into the history, engineering, tuning potential, and legacy of the Toyota 4E-FTE — the forgotten turbo engine that deserved way more love.

📌Credits:
Special thanks to @wickedEPRacing (0:02:03 – 0:02:18) They do awesome, professional work definitely worth checking out if you’re into serious builds.

📌 Chapters:
0:00 Intro – Toyota’s Hidden Turbo Gem
0:54 The Origins – Starlet GT Turbo & Glanza V
1:39 Engineering Breakdown – What Made the 4E-FTE Special
2:33 Tuning Potential & Legacy
3:14 Why It’s Forgotten
3:52 Closing Thoughts

#Toyota #4EFTE #StarletTurbo #JDM #CarCommunity #PistonPop