2011-2015 Toyota Tacoma 4WD 2.7L

Overview

The 2011-2015 Toyota Tacoma represents the second generation of the mid-size pickup truck, which underwent a significant refresh during this period to maintain its competitive edge in the North American market. Manufactured primarily at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas (TMMTX) and Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Baja California (TMMBC), the Tacoma solidified its reputation for durability and off-road capability. This generation utilized a robust body-on-frame construction, designed to balance utility with the daily driving requirements of a diverse consumer base ranging from commercial operators to outdoor enthusiasts.

The 2.7-liter inline-four engine configuration served as the entry-level powertrain, offering a balance of efficiency and mechanical simplicity. Paired with a four-speed automatic transmission and a part-time four-wheel-drive system, this setup was engineered for longevity and ease of maintenance. Throughout its production run, the vehicle remained a dominant force in the small pickup segment, characterized by its high resale value and a vast aftermarket ecosystem that allowed owners to customize the truck for specific tasks, including overlanding and heavy-duty work.

Vehicle Overview
Brand	Toyota
Model	Tacoma 4WD
Model Year	2011-2015
Generation	2nd Generation (Facelift)
Trim	Base, SR5
Body Style	Access Cab / Double Cab
Vehicle Segment	Mid-size Pickup
Vehicle Class	Small Pickup Trucks 4WD
Market	USA
Platform	Toyota N Platform
Assembly Plant	San Antonio, Texas; Tijuana, Mexico
Country of Origin	USA / Mexico
Production Start	2011
Production End	2015
VIN Identifier	5TE
Base MSRP	$24,000 – $28,000
Destination Charge	$885
Total MSRP	–
Powertrain
Powertrain Type	Internal Combustion Engine
Engine Family	Toyota TR engine
Engine Name	2TR-FE
Engine Code	2TR-FE
Engine Configuration	Inline-4
Displacement	2.7 Liters
Bore x Stroke	95.0 mm x 95.0 mm
Compression Ratio	9.6:1
Aspiration	Naturally Aspirated
Fuel Delivery	Electronic Fuel Injection
Valve Train	DOHC 16-Valve VVT-i
Engine Block Material	Aluminum Alloy
Cylinder Head Material	Aluminum Alloy
Oil Capacity	6.1 qt
Oil Specification / Viscosity	0W-20
Horsepower	159 hp @ 5,200 rpm
Torque	180 lb-ft @ 3,800 rpm
Redline	5,800 rpm
Drivetrain	Part-time 4-Wheel Drive
Transmission	Automatic 4-spd
Final Drive Ratio	4.10:1
Axle Ratio	4.10:1
Fuel Economy
Fuel Type	Regular Gasoline
Recommended Octane	87
EPA City MPG	18
EPA Highway MPG	21
EPA Combined MPG	19
Fuel Economy (L/100 km)	12.4
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)	21.1
Estimated Driving Range	400 miles
Annual Fuel Cost	$2,200
CO₂ Emissions	460 g/mi
Greenhouse Gas Score	3
Smog Rating	5
Performance
0-30 mph	–
0-60 mph	10.5 seconds
0-100 mph	–
Quarter Mile	17.8 seconds
Top Speed	105 mph
Braking Distance (60-0 mph)	135 ft
Lateral Acceleration	0.70g
Power-to-Weight Ratio	–
Dimensions & Capacities
Length (in)	208.1
Width (Without Mirrors) (in)	74.6
Width (With Mirrors) (in)	–
Height (in)	70.1
Wheelbase (in)	127.4
Front Track (in)	61.0
Rear Track (in)	61.0
Ground Clearance (in)	9.3
Curb Weight (lbs)	3,900
GVWR (lbs)	5,350
Towing Capacity (lbs)	3,500
Payload Capacity (lbs)	1,200
Passenger Volume (cu ft)	–
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) (cu ft)	–
Cargo Volume (Max) (cu ft)	–
Turning Circle	40.6 ft
Approach Angle	35 degrees
Departure Angle	26 degrees
Breakover Angle	20 degrees
Safety Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating	4 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Crash	4 Stars
NHTSA Side Crash	5 Stars
NHTSA Rollover	3 Stars
IIHS Award	–
Small Overlap Front	–
Moderate Overlap Front	Good
Side Impact	Good
Headlights Rating	–
Front Crash Prevention	–
Technology & Connectivity
Infotainment Display	6.1-inch touchscreen
Instrument Cluster	Analog
Apple CarPlay	No
Android Auto	No
Navigation System	Optional
Audio System	Entune
Speaker Count	6
Wireless Charging	No
Wi-Fi Hotspot	No
OTA Updates	No
Digital Key	No
Warranty & Ownership
Basic Warranty	3 years/36,000 miles
Powertrain Warranty	5 years/60,000 miles
Corrosion Warranty	5 years/unlimited miles
Roadside Assistance	2 years/25,000 miles
Complimentary Maintenance	2 years/25,000 miles
Specs.Autos Exclusive Data
Engine Assembly Plant	Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Alabama
Transmission Supplier	Aisin
Gear Ratios	1st: 2.80, 2nd: 1.53, 3rd: 1.00, 4th: 0.75
Differential Type	Open
Cooling System Capacity	9.5 qt
Roof Load Capacity (lbs)	150
Safety Recall Count	–
Production Volume	–
Units Sold in USA	–

Consumer Insights & Market Appeal

The 2011-2015 Toyota Tacoma is widely regarded as one of the most reliable mid-size trucks ever produced, maintaining exceptional value in the pre-owned market due to its legendary mechanical durability. While the 2.7-liter engine is praised for its longevity, owners should monitor the frame for potential corrosion issues, a known concern for this generation, and ensure that the leaf springs have been inspected or replaced under previous service campaigns. The four-speed automatic transmission is robust but lacks the efficiency of modern multi-gear units, making it better suited for utility than high-speed highway cruising. Today, this truck appeals to buyers seeking a simple, capable, and highly customizable platform that avoids the complexity of modern electronic driver aids, provided the vehicle has a documented service history.