How big is the Chevy 2.7 Turbo?
The Chevy 2.7 Turbo is a 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine used primarily in Chevrolet Silverado 1500 pickups and related GM trucks. It delivers about 310 horsepower and 348 lb-ft of torque, with exact figures varying by model year and trim.
Engine size and architecture
To understand what “2.7 Turbo” means in practical terms, it’s helpful to know the core design and how it fits into GM’s modern powertrain lineup.
Core characteristics
Key specifications at a glance help illustrate its size and purpose:
- Displacement: 2.7 liters
- Configuration: Inline-4 (four cylinders)
- Turbocharging: Single turbocharger with intercooling
- Fuel delivery: Direct injection
- Valvetrain: Dual overhead cam (DOHC) with 4 valves per cylinder
- Transmission pairing: 8-speed automatic
- Typical output: around 310 horsepower and 348 lb-ft of torque (numbers vary by year and trim)
- Primary applications: Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 (shared engine family)
These characteristics give the 2.7 Turbo its compact footprint and torque-rich performance that suits daily driving and light-to-mid range work tasks while maintaining decent efficiency.
Performance and efficiency context
The 2.7-liter turbo aims to balance spirited acceleration with practical fuel economy. Output and efficiency have been tuned to suit both urban commuting and highway cruising, with variations across model years and configurations.
What this means for driving
In typical Silverado setups, the engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission to optimize torque delivery and gearing. The turbocharging helps provide strong low- and mid-range torque, which assists with passing power, merging, and light towing without the weight penalty of a larger V6 or V8 engine.
As a general rule, buyers can expect a combination of confident acceleration and respectable fuel economy for a full-size pickup. Exact numbers can differ by trim level, cab configuration, bed length, drivetrain (2WD vs. 4WD), and whether the vehicle has the standard or upgraded tune for a given model year.
Who should consider the 2.7 Turbo
The 2.7 Turbo is pitched at buyers who want a modern, efficient four-cylinder with real-world towing and almost all-day practicality. It’s well suited for daily driving, commuting, and light-to-mid range payloads, offering a more economical alternative to larger V6 or V8 options while still delivering robust acceleration when needed.
Pros and cons for buyers
Before weighing your options, here are common considerations associated with the 2.7 Turbo:
- Pros:
- Strong low- to mid-range torque for a four-cylinder
- Better fuel economy than larger V6/V8 rivals in many everyday scenarios
- Lightweight relative to V8 options, which can benefit handling and efficiency
- Modern GM EcoTec architecture supports reliable performance and smooth operation
- Cons:
- Maximum towing/payload capacity may be lower than some V6/V8 configurations
- Turbocharged engines can be more sensitive to maintenance and fuel quality
- Performance differences may be more noticeable when the truck is heavily loaded or climbed with steep grades
For many pickup buyers, the 2.7 Turbo offers an appealing blend of everyday practicality and sufficient capability without the cost and weight of larger engines.
Summary
In summary, the Chevy 2.7 Turbo is a 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-4 that GM uses in the Silverado 1500 (and related models). It aims to provide a balance of strong off-the-line torque and reasonable fuel economy, with typical outputs around 310 hp and 348 lb-ft of torque, though exact numbers vary by year and trim. For buyers prioritizing efficiency without sacrificing everyday performance, the 2.7 Turbo remains a widely chosen option as of the latest model years.
How long will a Chevy 2.7 turbo last?
The Chevy 2.7L Turbo engine can last for over 100,000 miles, with many owners reporting success beyond this point, especially with proper maintenance. While some early models had issues, GM's improved reliability and extended warranty coverage (5 years/100,000 miles for new models) for newer versions suggest confidence in its longevity. Key factors influencing its lifespan are consistent oil changes, using the recommended fuel, and addressing any issues promptly.
This video discusses the longevity of the Chevy 2.7L Turbo engine and the new warranty coverage: 59sGetty's GarageYouTube · Jul 2, 2024
- Reported longevity: Many owners have reported reaching over 100,000 miles, with some vehicles still running strong after 146,000 miles or more.
- Improved reliability: Newer models have seen improved reliability, with fewer reported issues compared to early versions.
- Extended warranty: Starting in 2024, GM offers a 5-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty on the 2.7L Turbo engine, which is a strong indicator of the company's confidence in its durability.
- Maintenance is key: The engine's lifespan heavily depends on maintenance. Following the recommended service schedule, which often involves ~7,500-mile oil change intervals, is crucial.
- Fuel recommendations: Using the correct fuel, preferably premium (91-octane or higher), is recommended for optimal performance and longevity.
- Potential issues: Early models had some issues with a gasket that could fail, but these are being addressed, and the extended warranty covers the engine.
This video provides a 3-year review of the Chevy Silverado with a 2.7L Turbo engine, including its performance and potential downsides: 57sCEALLIFORNIAYouTube · Nov 16, 2023
What is the difference between a 5.3 and a 2.7 TurboMax?
The 2.7L TurboMax offers more torque (430430430 lb-ft vs 383383383 lb-ft) and better fuel economy (19/2219 / 2219/22 mpg vs 16/2116 / 2116/21 mpg), while the 5.3L V8 provides more horsepower (355355355 hp vs 310310310 hp) and a higher maximum towing capacity (up to 11,30011 comma 30011,300 lbs vs 9,5009 comma 5009,500 lbs). The best choice depends on your priorities: the 2.7L is better for daily driving, city use, and fuel efficiency, whereas the 5.3L is more suited for heavy-duty towing and maximum power.
This video compares the performance of the two engines, including a towing test: 1mCars Made SimpleYouTube · Dec 29, 2022
| Feature | 2.7L TurboMax | 5.3L V8 |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 310310310 hp | 355355355 hp |
| Torque | 430430430 lb-ft | 383383383 lb-ft |
| Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 19/2219 / 2219/22 mpg | 16/2116 / 2116/21 mpg |
| Max Towing Capacity | Up to 9,5009 comma 5009,500 lbs | Up to 11,30011 comma 30011,300 lbs |
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Advantages of the 2.7L TurboMax
- Better fuel efficiency: It is rated for better gas mileage, making it more economical for daily driving.
- Higher torque: It produces more pound-feet of torque, which is beneficial for acceleration and feeling powerful from a stop.
You can watch this video to see how the 2.7L TurboMax compares to the 5.3L V8 in terms of acceleration: 59sAutomotive Anonymous YouTube · Oct 11, 2024
Advantages of the 5.3L V8
- Higher horsepower: The V8 has more horsepower, which is better for reaching higher top speeds.
- Higher towing capacity: It can tow significantly more weight when properly equipped, making it a better choice for heavy hauling.
Other considerations
- Engine type: The 2.7L is a turbocharged four-cylinder, while the 5.3L is a traditional V8.
- Transmission: The 2.7L is typically paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the 5.3L is often paired with a 10-speed automatic.
Is the 2.7 turbo Chevy motor any good?
This is a great engine, a real work horse. If you are having some sort of problem, odds are it is the pcv vent, which is easy to access and clean. The engine has tons of access under the hood.
What size is the Chevy 2.7 Turbo?
The Chevrolet 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; Displacement: 2.7L / 166.4 cu. in.
