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Does the Toyota Tacoma 4 cylinder have enough power?

The Toyota Tacoma 4 cylinder engine can provide adequate power for many everyday driving needs, but it may not be the best choice for those who require more robust performance or towing capacity. The Tacoma's 4 cylinder engine offers a balance of efficiency and capability, making it a popular option for those seeking a capable mid-size pickup truck.


Engine Specifications and Performance


The Toyota Tacoma is available with two engine options: a 2.7-liter 4 cylinder and a 3.5-liter V6. The 4 cylinder engine produces 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. This power output is sufficient for tasks like daily commuting, light hauling, and occasional off-road use. However, the 4 cylinder may struggle when it comes to towing heavy loads or climbing steep hills, especially with a full payload.


Towing and Payload Capacity


The Toyota Tacoma 4 cylinder has a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 1,685 pounds. These figures are lower than the V6 model, which can tow up to 6,800 pounds and carry a payload of up to 1,860 pounds. For those who need to regularly tow heavy trailers or haul large loads, the 4 cylinder Tacoma may not be the best choice.


Fuel Economy and Efficiency


One of the key advantages of the 4 cylinder Tacoma is its improved fuel efficiency compared to the V6 model. The 4 cylinder engine is rated at 20 mpg city and 23 mpg highway, while the V6 achieves 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. This makes the 4 cylinder Tacoma a more economical option for those who prioritize fuel efficiency over raw power.


Conclusion


The Toyota Tacoma 4 cylinder engine can provide adequate power for many everyday driving needs, but it may not be the best choice for those who require more robust performance or towing capacity. The 4 cylinder engine offers a balance of efficiency and capability, making it a popular option for those seeking a capable mid-size pickup truck. However, those who need to regularly tow heavy loads or haul large payloads may be better served by the more powerful V6 engine option.

Is a 4-cylinder better than a V6?


If you prioritize fuel economy and don't need a lot of power, then the four-cylinder is likely your best bet; while some V6 options get decent gas mileage, they are still less efficient overall than a four-cylinder engine. On the other hand, if you care about speed and power, then you'll want to go with the V6.



How much horsepower does a 4-cylinder Tacoma have?


The nonhybrid version covered here makes up to 278 horsepower from its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while a hybrid Tacoma variant, reviewed separately, develops 326 horsepower.



Is the 2.7 L 4-cylinder a good engine?


The 2.7L TurboMax 4-cylinder engine is packed with tried and tested as well as new technology to provide excellent fuel economy and good performance; Priority Oil Flow: The pressure relief valve maintains oil pressure to prevent additional wear and tear.



Should I buy a 4-cylinder or 6 cylinder?


If you're looking for better fuel efficiency or a smaller car, a 4-cylinder is the way to go. If you want more power and better performance, especially for towing, a 6-cylinder is likely the best choice.



Does a 4-cylinder last longer than a V6?


It can even effect longevity. A more powerful, torquey six will usually be under less stress than a four-cylinder engine, especially in larger SUVs or trucks where the weight of the vehicle is a significant factor.



Does a 4-cylinder have enough power?


A four-cylinder engine fits well in smaller cars and offers great fuel efficiency, but it lacks the power of a six-cylinder. Adding turbocharging improves fuel economy and performance without taking up the space of a larger engine. A six-cylinder has more power, but it also uses more gas.



Is it worth getting a 4-cylinder truck?


A smaller 4 cylinder truck gets better gas mileage and is USUALLY less expensive. The smaller engine means a slower acceleration, which is only a minor inconvenience. The biggest exception is if you regularly haul a trailer with heavy loads, or even a light trailer up and down mountains.



How fast is a 4-cylinder Tacoma?


113 mph
Highlights: 2021 Toyota Tacoma

2021 Toyota Tacoma Engine Specs
TRD OFF-ROAD3.5L V6131 mph (estimated)
TRD SPORT3.5L V6131 mph (estimated)
SR52.7L 4-cylinder113 mph (estimated)
SR2.7L 4-cylinder113 mph (estimated)



What are the disadvantages of a four-cylinder?


Cons:

  • May lack in power and acceleration that is needed for towing.
  • Can feel underpowered when driving at high speeds or when carrying heavy loads.
  • Generally less refined and can produce more vibrations and noise due to having fewer cylinders.



What is the life expectancy of a Toyota Tacoma 4-cylinder?


With proper care and maintenance, it's not uncommon for a Tacoma to surpass 600,000 kilometers (372,000 miles) on the odometer while still running strong. There are numerous examples of Tacoma owners reporting their trucks reaching over 400,000 miles (640,000+ km) with the original engine and transmission.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.