2004-2012 Toyota Tacoma II Single Cab 2.7 (159 Hp)

The Toyota Tacoma II Single Cab 2.7, produced from 2004 to 2012, represents the second generation of the popular Tacoma compact pickup truck. While the Tacoma enjoys widespread recognition and sales success in North America, it’s important to understand its position within Toyota’s global lineup. The Tacoma, unlike many of Toyota’s offerings, was primarily designed and marketed for the North American market, filling a niche for a smaller, more maneuverable pickup than the full-size Tundra. The Single Cab configuration, specifically, catered to buyers prioritizing utility and affordability over passenger space, often finding use in commercial applications or as a work truck. This generation saw significant improvements in refinement, capability, and safety compared to its predecessor, solidifying the Tacoma’s reputation as a reliable and durable vehicle.

Toyota Tacoma II Single Cab 2.7: A Detailed Overview

The Tacoma II generation marked a substantial departure from the first generation, offering a more modern design, increased interior space, and enhanced mechanical components. The Single Cab model, characterized by its two-door layout and three-seat capacity, remained a popular choice for those needing a practical and rugged work vehicle. It distinguished itself from the Double Cab (extended cab) and Access Cab (extra cab) versions by offering a shorter wheelbase and a more focused utilitarian approach. The 2.7-liter engine option provided a balance between fuel efficiency and adequate power for typical light-duty tasks.

Engine & Performance

Powering the Toyota Tacoma II Single Cab 2.7 is the 2TR-FE 2.7-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 159 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 244 Nm (179.97 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3800 rpm. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (D-VVT-i) technology. This combination helps optimize both power delivery and fuel efficiency. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout contributes to a balanced weight distribution. The Tacoma’s weight-to-power ratio is 9.1 kg/Hp, and its weight-to-torque ratio is 6 kg/Nm. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, delivering power to the rear wheels. While not a performance-oriented powertrain, the 2TR-FE provides sufficient power for everyday driving and light hauling duties. Fuel economy is rated at 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg) in urban conditions and 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle.

Design & Features

The Tacoma II Single Cab is a traditional pickup truck in terms of body style, featuring a separate cab and bed configuration. The Single Cab’s two-door layout prioritizes cargo space and simplicity. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4836 mm (190.39 in.) in length, 1834 mm (72.2 in.) in width, and 1669 mm (65.71 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2779 mm (109.41 in.). The curb weight is 1452 kg (3201.11 lbs.), with a maximum weight capacity of 2064 kg (4550.34 lbs.) and a maximum load capacity of 612 kg (1349.23 lbs.).

Safety features for the 2004-2012 Tacoma included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard equipment. The suspension system consists of an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar at the front, and independent coil springs at the rear. Braking is handled by ventilated discs at the front and drums at the rear. The Tacoma rides on 15-inch wheels with 215/70 R15 tires. The interior, while functional, is relatively basic in the Single Cab configuration, focusing on durability and ease of cleaning. The Tacoma’s 80-liter (21.13 US gal) fuel tank provides a respectable driving range.

Technical Specifications