A V engine arranges its cylinders in two separate banks set at an angle to one another, forming a V shape when viewed from the front. Both banks connect to a common crankshaft at the bottom. This layout significantly reduces the overall length and height of the engine block compared to an inline configuration, allowing large-displacement engines to fit into compact engine bays.
We need to pull the intake manifold off the V engine to reach the knock sensors in the valley.
Also heard as
- V-block
Do not mix it up with
- Boxer engine: A V engine has cylinders at an angle, while a boxer engine has cylinders laid completely flat at 180 degrees.
Related terms
In-line engine
An engine block configuration features all its cylinders arranged in a single straight row.
Boxer engine
A flat engine configuration where opposing pistons move inwards and outwards simultaneously.
Opposed cylinder
An engine configuration where cylinders are positioned flat and point away from the crankshaft.
Short block
A partially assembled engine bottom end lacking the cylinder head and oil pan.