The Toyota VZ engine family is a series of V6 gasoline piston engines ranging from 2.0 to 3.4 L (1,992 to 3,378 cc) in displacement and both SOHC and DOHC configurations. It was Toyota's first V6 engine, being made as a response to Nissan’s VG engine, one of Japan's first mass-produced V6 engines. The VZ family uses a 60° V-angle design, and introduced many changes for Toyota, including various EFI, ECU, and engine improvements from generation to generation. The low angle DOHC and SOHC cylinder heads excel in low-mid torque and power, making the VZ series well-suited for various uses in cars, trucks, and SUVs. The blocks are all strongly made using cast iron with large interconnected main bearing cradles and two bolt main bearing caps. Cylinder heads are made from aluminium. Forged steel crankshafts, and cast iron main bearing support girdles became standard with the 3VZ-FE. Piston and ring construction are typical parts, with rods varying between large and very large for stock V6 production engines.