The Toyota Tacoma II Double Cab, specifically the facelifted version produced from 2012 to 2015, represents a significant iteration of Toyota’s popular mid-size pickup truck. While the Tacoma has been a mainstay in the North American market since its introduction in 1995, the second generation, launched in 2005, brought increased size, capability, and refinement. The 2012 facelift further enhanced the Tacoma with styling updates and continued improvements to its proven mechanical platform. This model caters to buyers seeking a versatile vehicle capable of both work and recreational duties, offering a blend of durability, reliability, and off-road prowess.
Toyota Tacoma II Double Cab: A Detailed Overview
The Tacoma II Double Cab occupies the mid-size pickup truck segment, competing with vehicles like the Ford Ranger, Nissan Frontier, and Chevrolet Colorado. Its Double Cab configuration provides seating for five passengers, making it a practical choice for families or crews. The 2012-2015 facelift focused on refining the existing design rather than a complete overhaul, with changes primarily concentrated on the front fascia, grille, and interior trim. The Tacoma’s reputation for holding its value and exceptional reliability has made it a consistently popular choice among truck buyers.
Engine & Performance
The 2012-2015 Toyota Tacoma II Double Cab facelift offered a choice of engines, but the 4.0-liter 1GR-FE V6 is a prominent configuration. This naturally aspirated engine produces 236 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 265.52 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine features a DOHC valvetrain with D-VVT-i (Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence), optimizing performance and fuel efficiency. The longitudinal engine layout contributes to a balanced weight distribution. The power-to-weight ratio of 8 kg/Hp and torque-to-weight ratio of 5.3 kg/Nm provide adequate performance for everyday driving and moderate towing. The 5-speed automatic transmission delivers smooth shifts and contributes to the Tacoma’s overall usability. Fuel economy is rated at approximately 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 maintains the traditional pickup truck body-on-frame construction, known for its robustness and durability. The Double Cab configuration provides a spacious cabin with seating for five, offering a practical solution for passengers and cargo. The 2012 facelift brought subtle styling updates to the exterior, including a revised grille and front bumper. Inside, the cabin features a functional layout with durable materials. Standard features typically include air conditioning, power windows and locks, and an audio system. Safety features, crucial for a vehicle of this type, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The Tacoma’s ride height of 231 mm (9.09 in) provides ample ground clearance for off-road adventures. The vehicle’s dimensions – a length of 5286 mm (208.11 in) and a width of 1895 mm (74.61 in) – position it comfortably within the mid-size pickup truck category.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma II Double Cab (facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 V6 (236 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.7 l/100 km (20.1 US mpg, 24.1 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 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 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, D-VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.6 l (10.14 US qt | 8.45 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1898 kg (4184.37 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2495 kg (5500.53 lbs.) |
| Max load | 597 kg (1316.16 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 | 1679 mm (66.1 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3236 mm (127.4 in.) |
| Front track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Rear track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 231 mm (9.09 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic 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 |
| Tires size | 245/75 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Toyota Tacoma II Double Cab (2012-2015 facelift) with the 4.0-liter V6 engine and 4WD remains a popular choice in the used truck market. Its combination of reliability, capability, and passenger space continues to appeal to a wide range of buyers. The vehicle’s enduring appeal is a testament to Toyota’s engineering and commitment to building durable and dependable trucks.
