Chevy TurboMax Engine Explained: Specs, Performance, and More
While past model years have had the Chevy TurboMax engine as an available option, this powertrain is now the standard configuration for the Colorado and Silverado in 2025. This 2.7-liter turbocharged I-4 is the only workhorse for the midsize Colorado and the standard one for the Silverado 1500 full-size pickup. Using its high-output potency, the Chevy TurboMax engine has engaging horsepower, excellent torque, and some of the best payload capacities that these trucks can handle.
We at McGee Chevrolet of Middlebury know that dedicated truckers will want to know more about this four-cylinder powertrain. Let's look into the highlights.
Chevy TurboMax Engine at a Glance
- The TurboMax is a 2.7-liter turbocharged I-4 engine, tuned for high-output performance.
- It is the standard engine of the Colorado and Silverado 1500 in 2025.
- Generally, it has high torque for its weight class, but lower towing capacity.
- This makes it perfect for drivers who want a maneuverable vehicle that is still capable of towing lighter loads.
- Ready to try it? Visit McGee Chevrolet of Middlebury for more information.
A Brief History of the Chevy TurboMax Engine
The TurboMax engine was technically introduced on the Silverado first, though the Colorado was the first one to be given the name "TurboMax." In 2019, a 2.7-liter turbocharged I-4 became the standard for Silverado 1500 models, and in 2022, it was tuned into a high-output version. It took another two years for this powertrain to receive the TurboMax title, but since 2022, the configuration has been outputting the same impressive 430 pound-feet of torque.
Fans of the Colorado may recognize that in 2022, the midsize pickup featured three engines: a standard 2.5-liter I-4, an available 3.6-liter V-6, and the available 2.8-liter turbo-diesel. The following year, that lineup dropped down to a single option: a 2.7-liter turbocharged high-output I-4, a hand-me-down from its older sibling. By itself, the TurboMax provided more horsepower and torque than any of the three powertrains that the Colorado had beforehand, elevating the smaller pickup across its trim levels.
In 2025 (and the 2026 Silverado 1500), the 2.7-liter TurboMax remains the standard. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the TurboMax is the only engine for Colorado drivers and is the default choice for the Silverado 1500 WT, Custom, Custom Trail Boss, LT, RST, and LT Trail Boss trims.
Chevy TurboMax Horsepower and Torque
That isn't to say the Chevy TurboMax engine specs aren't impressively capable for most towing, hauling, and cruising needs. The TurboMax sports some of the highest torque for any standard full-size engine and can readily tow most trailers. See the chart below for the basic specs lineup.
 |  | |
| Chevy Colorado | Chevy Silverado 1500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 310 | 310 |
| Torque | 430 lb-ft | 430 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed auto | 8-speed auto |
| Towing Capacity (Max) | 7,700 lbs1 | 9,500 lbs1 |
| Payload Capacity (Max) | 1,684 lbs2 | 2,260 lbs2 |
| EPA-Est. MPG (City / Hwy / Cmb) | 19 / 23 / 203 | 18 / 21 / 194 |
Chevy TurboMax MPG
Perhaps the best part of this engine is its excellent fuel efficiency. This four-cylinder reaches an EPA-estimated 19/23/20 MPG (City/Highway/Combined) for the 2WD Colorado3 and 18/21/19 MPG (City/Highway/Combined) for the 2WD Silverado.4 This powertrain also allows you to tow up to 9,500 pounds when properly equipped on the Silverado.
In the case of the Chevy Silverado, TurboMax engine options are the most fuel-efficient among the gasoline lineup. For diesel enthusiasts, the 3.0-liter Duramax turbo-diesel I-6 can provide higher MPG numbers with more expensive fuel.
Chevy TurboMax Towing Capacity
One of the most exhilarating aspects of buying a new pickup is hitching it up and seeing what it can tow, and the standard TurboMax engine is fully ready and capable of making that happen. In fact, with its maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds with the Colorado and 9,500 pounds for the Silverado,1 even this 2.7-liter turbocharged four-cylinder is more than enough for many families. For instance, it should help you get your fishing boat down to the water or bring an A-Frame or pop-up camper to a site. The Chevy Colorado TurboMax engine easily clears many of those must-hit towing milestones with ease.
The Silverado 1500 adds some extra stability for towing slightly heavier trailers, making the TurboMax a good choice if you occasionally need to haul heavier goods (like cars) or more precious cargo (like livestock). The additional payload capacity of 2,260 pounds is also very slightly preferred for at-home renovation projects, outdoing the Colorado by 576 pounds.2
Silverado 1500: Chevy TurboMax vs. V-8 and Diesel
While the Chevy TurboMax engine is the best possible towing capacity for the Colorado, the Silverado 1500 has three others to pick from. The TurboMax provides the highest possible payload of the Silverado 1500 lineup, but it also has the lowest tow rating. To learn how to maximize the towing capacity of the Chevy Silverado 1500, check out our chart below.
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| 2.7L TurboMax I-4 | 5.3L EcoTec3 V-8 | 6.2L EcoTec3 V-8 | 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel I-6 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 310 | 355 | 420 | 305 |
| Torque | 430 lb-ft | 383 lb-ft | 460 lb-ft | 495 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed auto | 10-speed auto | 10-speed auto | 10-speed auto |
| Towing Capacity (Max) | 9,500 lbs1 | 11,300 lbs1 | 13,200 lbs1 | 13,300 lbs1 |
| Payload Capacity (Max) | 2,260 lbs2 | 2,180 lbs2 | 1,980 lbs2 | 1,970 lbs2 |
The strongest option for trailering, the 3.0-liter turbo-diesel, can tow nearly 4,000 pounds more than the standard TurboMax,1 making this the preferred powertrain for truckers who need to be work-ready at all times. Though if you're looking for even more strength, compare the Silverado 1500 and 2500 HD models. With up to 20,000 pounds of towing capacity when properly equipped with conventional trailering equipment, the Silverado 2500 HD makes nearly any job possible.
Silverado 1500: Chevy TurboMax Engine Pros & Cons
Pros
- Most fuel-efficient gas engine
- Lowest cost
- Excellent towing capacity for vacations or occasional towing
- Highest payload
- Torque above the 5.3L V-8
Cons
- Towing capacity unsuited for work or big projects
- Payload is not much higher than the 5.3L
- No 10-speed auto transmission
- Diesel engine requires fewer refueling trips
Reddit Reviews: Is the Chevy TurboMax Engine Any Good?
joebock15
Even with all of those pros, you may expect truck fans to want the older-fashioned six- or eight-cylinder powertrains over the four-cylinder Chevy TurboMax engine. However, in many cases, truckers actually prefer the standard powertrain. For example, one user says that they like "like the low-end torque" and how they "don't have to tiptoe around the gas pedal when taking a left off a dirt road." Many users on that thread agree that, while the power of the 5.3-liter can be nice, it is usually unnecessary – especially for those using their truck as a family vehicle and occasional hauler.
Read MoreBob_Paulsen60
Regarding the reliability of the engine, Reddit users are straightforward: There just isn't that much information yet. One user claims that the "2.7 seems to be holding up," referencing its relative youth on the scene, while emphasizing that any individual vehicle can be flawed.
Read MoreExplore the Chevy TurboMax Engine at McGee Chevrolet of Middlebury
As the standard engine of the new Chevy Silverado 1500 for sale and sole workhorse of the Colorado lineup, the 2.7-liter TurboMax I-4 is an excellent addition powertrain for truckers ready for lighter towing and better maneuverability.
Want to see how it works in action before you commit to a larger purchase? Leasing a Silverado 1500 is easier than ever, thanks to the flexible array of offers available at McGee Chevrolet of Middlebury. Learn if the towing capacity is right for you, if you like the drive feel, and if the MPG ratings meet your expectations before you commit to a life-long purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Chevrolet TurboMax Engine
What is the Chevy TurboMax engine?
The Chevy TurboMax engine is a high-output turbocharged 2.7-liter I-4. While it was named differently in previous model years, it was branded under the TurboMax name for the 2024 Chevy Colorado and Chevy Silverado 1500. This standard setup provides 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque, a figure that is best-in-class for the 2026 Silverado 1500.5
How much horsepower does the Chevy TurboMax engine have?
The Chevy TurboMax engine produces 310 horsepower in both the Chevy Colorado and Silverado 1500. This 2.7-liter turbocharged I-4 is the standard option for both the Colorado and Silverado, meaning you get a minimum of 310 horsepower whenever you sign up for a lease or maintenance on a non-heavy-duty Chevy truck. The Silverado 1500 offers several options for those seeking more horsepower.
How reliable is the Chevy TurboMax engine?
Because this specific engine has only been in trucks for a few years, it's difficult to note how reliable it is compared to its V-6 or V-8 contemporaries. However, similar four-cylinders with turbocharged power have been known to last just as long (if not longer) than more traditional truck powertrains. You can expect the TurboMax to survive for miles of towing, hauling, and commuting when properly maintained.
Reviews for Chevrolet Trucks Featuring the TurboMax Engine
1Before you buy a vehicle or use it for trailering, carefully review the Trailering section of the Owner's Manual. The weight of passengers, cargo and options or accessories may reduce the amount you can tow.
2For comparison purposes only. See the Owner's Manual and the label on the vehicle door jamb for the carrying capacity of a specific vehicle.
3EPA-estimated 19 city/23 hwy 2.7-liter TurboMax I-4.
4EPA-estimated 18 city/21 hwy 2.7-liter TurboMax I-4.
5Based on latest available competitive data.