Earlier this week, we brought forward reports that Aston Martin->ke13 is considering downsizing its lineup of engines, which almost exclusively include V-8s and V-12s. This consideration is an obvious attempt to squeeze a few more mpg out of its lineup without depleting horsepower, which will allow the boutique automaker to achieve the fuel economy numbers required by the ongoing CAFE standards.

According to De Telegraf, Aston Martin may be considering Toyota as a partner in this downsizing attempt. In particular, Aston is eyeballing the V-10 engine used in the Lexus LF-A->ke2181 and the 8-pot used in several other Lexus models.

If you are wondering how Aston plans to milk these engines out of Toyota->ke88, keep in mind that Aston and Toyota already have a working agreement for Aston Martin to use the Toyota iQ to create its own Cygnet. So, for Aston Martin executives to get into conversation with Toyota brass about this possibility wouldn't take too much.

The only issue that Toyota may have is the fact that this sharing of engines may result in added competition for the LFA and other Lexus models. Then again, with Aston Martin being such an exclusive brand without a long production list, Toyota may not see this as a threat, but rather a way to get its name on the tip of premium sports car buyers' tongues. This could result in the ultimate word-of-mouth advertising for Lexus' sports cars, which will soon include a car that may rival Aston Martins, the LF-LC.

We'll keep you up to date on this developing situation and let you know as soon as more details become available.

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