2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma 2.7L 2TR-FE Dual VVT-i 4 Cylinder Engine Motor

The Toyota 2TR-FE is the definition of “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” While the 3.5L V6 gets the glory for towing, the 2.7L inline-four is the choice for owners who prioritize mechanical simplicity and legendary longevity. For the 2016–2023 Tacoma (3rd Generation), this engine received a significant “Dual VVT-i” update to keep it compliant with modern efficiency standards.

 Engine Specifications

The 2TR-FE is a rugged, iron-block engine designed specifically for trucks and SUVs, prioritizing low-end torque and durability over high-speed performance.

 3rd Gen Improvements (2016+)

Dual VVT-i Update

Before 2016, the 2TR-FE only featured variable valve timing on the intake side. The 2016 update added it to the exhaust side as well.

• The Result: This improved the engine’s breathing, helping it meet stricter emissions standards while providing a slightly flatter torque curve, which is critical for a mid-size truck.

Reduced Friction & Weight

Toyota engineers added a resin-coated piston skirt and updated the oil pump to reduce internal drag. They also switched to a plastic intake manifold to shave weight off the front end of the truck.

 Maintenance & Reliability Profile

The 2TR-FE is frequently cited as one of the most reliable engines Toyota has ever built, often surpassing 300,000 or even 400,000 miles with basic care.

• Timing Chain: Like its smaller cousins, it uses a robust timing chain rather than a belt. It is designed to last the life of the engine.

• Valve Adjustments: It features hydraulic lash adjusters, meaning you don’t need to perform the periodic valve clearances required on older Toyota truck engines.

   

• Coolant Bypass Pipe: On older versions, this pipe was plastic and prone to cracking. By the 2016–2023 era, Toyota moved toward more durable components, but it’s still a part to inspect if you ever notice a mysterious coolant loss.

 Real-World Performance

In the 3rd Gen Tacoma, the 2.7L is usually paired with the AC60E 6-speed automatic transmission.

• The Trade-off: It is not a “fast” engine. Because the Tacoma is a heavy frame-on-body vehicle, the 159 hp has to work hard. However, because it is a “square” engine (bore and stroke are equal), it produces very consistent torque for light hauling and daily commuting.

• Efficiency: While you might expect significantly better MPG than the V6, the 4-cylinder often works harder to move the truck, resulting in fuel economy that is usually only 1–2 MPG better than the larger V6 in real-world driving.

The Verdict: If you are building a “forever truck” for light-duty work or daily driving and don’t plan on towing heavy trailers, the 2.7L 2TR-FE is arguably the most reliable powertrain option in the modern mid-size truck market.