No—the 2.7-liter Tacoma is not a V6. It refers to a four-cylinder inline engine, specifically the 2.7L I4 used in various Tacoma trims over the years. The Tacoma lineup has also offered a 3.5L V6 in other trims and generations.
To understand why this matters, it helps to know how Toyota has arranged the Tacoma’s powertrains. The 2.7 L engine is an inline-4 designed for efficiency and everyday driving, while the V6 option provides more horsepower and torque for heavier towing and load-bearing duties. The two engines have different configurations, displacements, and performance profiles, and you’ll see the V6 badge on models with a larger 3.5 L engine rather than the 2.7 L.
Engine options in the Tacoma lineup
Here's a concise snapshot of the two main engine configurations that have powered Tacomas over the years.
- 2.7 L inline-4 (engine code 2TR-FE) — approximately 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque
- 3.5 L V6 (engine codes 1GR-FE/2GR-FE) — approximately 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque
Note: Output varies by model year, transmission choice, and emission regulations. Some trims and model years may have different tuning or specifications.
How to tell which engine your Tacoma has
If you own a Tacoma or are shopping used models, you can confirm the engine type by checking the under-hood labeling, the VIN, or the owner's manual. The 2.7 L engine will be labeled as 2TR-FE, while the V6 will be labeled as 1GR-FE or 2GR-FE in the engine bay or documentation. The VIN’s engine code can also be decoded to identify the engine family, trim, and options.
Bottom line
In short: the 2.7-liter Tacoma is a four-cylinder engine, not a V6. If you are seeking a V6 Tacoma for higher power and towing capability, you would look at models equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 in the same generation. Always verify the specific model year and trim to confirm which engine is installed.
Additional context
Historically, the 2.7 L I4 was common in base trims and certain generations, while the 3.5 L V6 served mid- to upper-level trims with greater towing and payload capabilities. Engine choices reflect a balance between affordability, fuel economy, and capability across the Tacoma lineup.
Summary
The designation 2.7-liter refers to a four-cylinder engine, not a V6. Toyota offered both engine configurations in Tacomas across different generations, with the 3.5-liter V6 providing more power for tougher tasks. Always check the specific vehicle to confirm its exact engine configuration and capabilities.
Is the 2.7 liter Tacoma a good engine?
Yes, the 2.7L engine is known for its reliability. Even used engines can provide excellent performance if they have been well-maintained and have reasonable mileage.
Is a 2.7 liter engine a 4 or 6 cylinder?
One of the most notable engines found in Chevrolet trucks is the turbocharged 2.7L four-cylinder. This innovative power plant is specially designed to deliver a perfect balance between power and fuel economy, which reflects Chevrolet's commitment to meeting the changing needs of truck buyers.
What year to stay away from Tacoma?
Avoid 2005-2006 Tacoma's due to head gasket issues . Some 2016-2017 had underfilled rear diffs , causing them to howl…. besides that.
Is the 2.7 L Tacoma a V6?
Known as the 2TR-FE, the 2.7 liter engine (2,693cc to be exact) uses four cylinders and natural aspiration to put out a modest 159 horsepower at 5,200 rpm.