Basically, with this new Multi Displacement System V8, the hydraulic valve lifters are deactivated on half the cylinders, in a specific computer-controlled pattern that suits the driver's demand for power. In addition to deactivating the valvetrain for half the cylinders, the injectors and coils are deactivated (obviously) while in a low-demand state. When you floor it, the computer pumps all the HLA's back up full-time, reintroduces fuel and spark, and presto! 8-cylinder power on demand.

Granted the engine still has to shove 8-cylinders back and forth, so the output in 4-cylinder mode is not going to be very impressive, but the point's moot - 4-cylinder mode is only activated at a sustained cruising speed, and according to R&T test drives, the switch between modes is virtually invisible to the driver.

Impressive technology, no doubt. But in the end, it's still a OHV pushrod V8 with 2-valve cylinder heads. Not exactly efficient. And as always with me...no stick, no sale.