The Toyota Tacoma's 4.0-liter V6 engine delivers about 236 horsepower. This figure, tied to the 1GR-FE design, has defined the Tacoma’s performance in mid-2000s to mid-2010s models.
The 4.0L V6 in context
The 1GR-FE engine, a 4.0-liter dual overhead cam V6, powered Tacomas from roughly 2005 through the mid-2010s. It paired with manual or automatic transmissions and offered strong mid-range torque for towing and off-road work.
Specifications at a glance
These are the core figures most buyers and enthusiasts reference when evaluating this engine option.
- Horsepower: 236 hp (176 kW) at about 5,600 rpm
- Torque: 266 lb-ft (361 Nm) at about 3,400 rpm
- Displacement: 4.0 liters
- Configuration: 6-cylinder DOHC with variable valve timing on some variants
In practical terms, the 4.0L V6 provides a solid power band suitable for daily driving, highway merging, and light towing, with strong mid-range torque that helps with climbing grades and off-road work.
Model-year evolution and current status
Toyota shifted away from the 4.0-liter V6 as the Tacoma line evolved. Beginning with the mid-cycle refresh around 2016, Toyota introduced a newer 3.5-liter V6 (the i-Force family) to the Tacoma lineup, marking a shift in power delivery and efficiency.
Engine evolution timeline
- 2005–2015: 4.0L V6 (1GR-FE) – about 236 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque
- 2016–present: 3.5L V6 (i-Force) – typically around 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque, depending on trim and market
This timeline shows the engine evolution in the Tacoma, with the older 4.0L delivering steady performance and the newer 3.5L providing improved power and efficiency. Modern Tacomas do not use the 4.0L engine.
What this means for drivers
Horsepower translates to acceleration, passing capability, and how well the truck handles weight and terrain. The 4.0L V6’s 236 hp gave solid performance for its era, especially in models tailored for towing or off-road use. For buyers shopping used Tacomas from the 2005–2015 window, the 4.0L remains a well-regarded powertrain benchmark.
Summary
The 4.0-liter V6 in the Toyota Tacoma delivers about 236 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, figures tied to the 1GR-FE engine used from roughly 2005 to 2015. Since 2016, Toyota has moved to a more powerful 3.5-liter V6 in the Tacoma lineup, so current models no longer use the 4.0L. Always verify the exact power figures for a specific year, market, and trim, as numbers can vary slightly.