The Toyota Tacoma III Access Cab 2.7, produced from 2015 to 2020, represents the third generation of Toyota’s popular mid-size pickup truck. Sold primarily in North America, the Tacoma has established itself as a dominant force in the compact and mid-size truck segment, renowned for its reliability, durability, and strong resale value. The Access Cab configuration offers a balance between cargo space and passenger comfort, featuring extended cab doors for easier access to the rear seats. This particular variant is equipped with a 2.7-liter inline-four engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, targeting buyers seeking a practical and efficient work truck or a capable weekend adventurer.
Toyota Tacoma III Access Cab 2.7: A Detailed Overview
The Tacoma III generation marked a significant evolution for the model, introducing a more refined interior, improved ride quality, and enhanced technology compared to its predecessors. While the Tacoma has always been known for its off-road prowess, the third generation aimed to broaden its appeal to a wider range of buyers, including those who prioritize daily usability and comfort. The 2.7-liter engine option provided a more affordable entry point into the Tacoma lineup, focusing on fuel efficiency and dependable performance rather than outright power.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Tacoma III Access Cab 2.7 is the 2TR-FE 2.7-liter inline-four gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 159 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 245 Nm (180.7 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3800 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i) technology, optimizing performance and fuel efficiency across a wider range of engine speeds. While not the most powerful engine in the Tacoma lineup, the 2.7-liter provides adequate power for everyday driving and light-duty hauling. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout contributes to a balanced weight distribution. The six-speed automatic transmission delivers smooth and responsive shifting, enhancing the overall driving experience. The weight-to-power ratio is 11.4 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 7.4 kg/Nm, indicating a reasonable balance between engine output and vehicle mass.
Design & Features
The Tacoma III Access Cab is a two-door pickup truck with seating for four passengers. The Access Cab configuration features extended cab doors, making it easier to access the rear seats compared to the standard cab. The truck’s exterior design is characterized by a bold front grille, sculpted body lines, and a robust stance. The interior has been significantly upgraded compared to previous generations, with improved materials, a more ergonomic layout, and enhanced technology features. Standard features typically include air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system. Safety features, crucial in modern pickups, include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The Tacoma’s suspension system – independent McPherson struts in the front and independent coil springs in the rear – provides a comfortable ride and capable handling both on and off-road. Ride height (ground clearance) is a substantial 239 mm (9.41 inches), contributing to its off-road capability. Available tire sizes range from 245/75 R16 to 265/60 R18, depending on the trim level.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma III Access Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 (159 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 2015 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 159 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 59 Hp/l |
| Torque | 245 Nm @ 3800 rpm (180.7 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 2TR-FE |
| Engine displacement | 2694 cm3 (164.4 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 95 mm (3.74 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95 mm (3.74 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC-VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.6 l (9.09 US qt | 7.57 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1805 kg (3979.34 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2540 kg (5599.74 lbs.) |
| Max load | 735 kg (1620.4 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 79 l (20.87 US gal | 17.38 UK gal) |
| Length | 5392 mm (212.28 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Height | 1793 mm (70.59 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3236 mm (127.4 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 239 mm (9.41 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type 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; 265/70 R16; 265/65 R17; 265/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17; 18 |
The Toyota Tacoma III Access Cab 2.7 remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a reliable, capable, and affordable mid-size pickup truck. Its blend of practicality, durability, and off-road capability continues to resonate with a wide range of customers, solidifying its position as a leader in the segment.
