The Toyota Tacoma II Double Cab, produced from 2004 to 2012, represents the second generation of Toyota’s popular compact pickup truck. Sold primarily in North America, the Tacoma filled a crucial niche for buyers seeking a versatile, reliable, and moderately sized truck capable of both work and recreational use. The Double Cab configuration, introduced with this generation, significantly expanded the Tacoma’s appeal by offering a more spacious rear seat, making it a viable option for families. This iteration of the Tacoma, particularly the variant equipped with the 4.0-liter V6 engine, became known for its robust construction and off-road capability, cementing its position as a leading contender in the mid-size truck segment.
Toyota Tacoma II Double Cab 4.0 V6: An Overview
The Tacoma II Double Cab was a significant evolution of the original Tacoma, offering increased dimensions, improved refinement, and a wider range of features. While the standard cab and Xtracab models continued, the Double Cab provided a genuine four-door layout, addressing a growing demand for passenger space. The 4.0-liter V6 engine option provided a substantial power upgrade over the base four-cylinder, enhancing both towing capacity and overall driving experience. The Tacoma’s reputation for durability and high resale value contributed to its sustained popularity throughout its production run.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Tacoma II Double Cab 4.0 V6 is the 1GR-FE engine, a 3.956-liter (241.41 cubic inches) naturally aspirated V6. This engine produces 236 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 360 Newton-meters (265.52 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (D-VVT-i) on both intake and exhaust valves, optimizing performance and fuel efficiency. The 1GR-FE is known for its reliability and longevity, contributing to the Tacoma’s overall reputation for dependability. Power is delivered through a six-speed manual transmission to the rear wheels, providing a direct and engaging driving experience. The weight-to-power ratio of 7.8 kg/Hp (128 Hp/tonne) and weight-to-torque ratio of 5.1 kg/Nm (195.2 Nm/tonne) demonstrate a respectable balance between power and weight. Fuel economy is rated at 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg) in urban conditions and 11.7 l/100 km (20.1 US mpg) on the highway.
Design & Features
The Tacoma II Double Cab is a four-door, five-seat pickup truck with a body-on-frame construction. This traditional design contributes to its ruggedness and durability. The Double Cab configuration offers significantly more rear passenger space compared to the Xtracab, making it suitable for families or those frequently carrying passengers. The interior features were generally functional and durable, with a focus on practicality rather than luxury. Standard features typically included air conditioning, power windows and locks, and an AM/FM stereo. Higher trim levels offered features such as premium audio systems, leather upholstery, and sunroofs. Safety features included Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), although advanced driver-assistance systems common in modern vehicles were not available on this generation Tacoma. The truck’s exterior design is characterized by a relatively boxy shape, reflecting its utilitarian purpose. Ground clearance of 239 mm (9.41 inches) provides good off-road capability, and the Tacoma’s relatively compact size makes it maneuverable in both urban and off-road environments.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma II Double Cab |
| Engine Type | 4.0 V6 (236 Hp) |
| Start of Production | August, 2004 |
| End of Production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body Type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Consumption (Urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg) |
| Fuel Consumption (Extra Urban) | 11.7 l/100 km (20.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-Power Ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-Torque Ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 236 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 4000 rpm (265.52 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine Layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 1GR-FE |
| Engine Displacement | 3956 cm3 (241.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of Cylinders | 6 |
| Engine Configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95 mm (3.74 in.) |
| Compression Ratio | 10:1 |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel Injection System | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine Aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, D-VVT-i |
| Engine Oil Capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant Capacity | 9.7 l (10.25 US qt | 8.53 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1844 kg (4065.32 lbs.) |
| Max. Weight | 2472 kg (5449.83 lbs.) |
| Max Load | 628 kg (1384.5 lbs.) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 5286 mm (208.11 in.) |
| Width | 1895 mm (74.61 in.) |
| Height | 1781 mm (70.12 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3246 mm (127.8 in.) |
| Front Track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear Track | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Ride Height (Ground Clearance) | 239 mm (9.41 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of Gears | 6, manual transmission |
| Front Suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear Suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front Brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear Brakes | Drum |
| Assisting Systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering Type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tire Size | 245/75 R16 |
| Wheel Rim Size | 16 |
The Toyota Tacoma II Double Cab 4.0 V6 remains a popular choice in the used truck market, prized for its reliability, capability, and strong resale value. Its blend of practicality, durability, and off-road prowess has solidified its place as a benchmark in the mid-size pickup truck segment.
