Toyota Tacoma II Access Cab 2.7 (159 Hp) 4WD

The Toyota Tacoma II Access Cab 2.7, produced from 2004 to 2012, represents the second generation of Toyota’s popular compact pickup truck. Sold primarily in North America, and to a lesser extent in other global markets, the Tacoma II built upon the success of its predecessor, offering increased size, refinement, and capability. The Access Cab configuration, featuring extended rear seating, broadened the Tacoma’s appeal to families and those needing occasional passenger space alongside the utility of a pickup. This particular model, equipped with the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine and four-wheel drive, served as an entry point into the Tacoma lineup, prioritizing affordability and fuel efficiency over outright performance.

Toyota Tacoma II Access Cab 2.7: A Detailed Overview

The Tacoma II was a significant departure from the first-generation model, adopting a more substantial frame and body-on-frame construction. This resulted in a more robust and capable vehicle, better suited to both on- and off-road driving. The Access Cab variant distinguished itself with its four-door layout, offering limited but usable rear seating – a feature not commonly found in compact pickups at the time. The 2.7-liter engine option provided a balance between fuel economy and sufficient power for everyday tasks and light hauling.

Engine & Performance

Powering the 2004-2012 Toyota Tacoma II Access Cab 2.7 4WD is the 2TR-FE 2.7-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 159 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 159 Nm (117.27 lb.-ft.) of torque, also at 5200 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 to optimize performance and efficiency. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 89.8 horsepower per tonne, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 89.8 Nm per tonne. The 2TR-FE is known for its reliability and durability, characteristics central to Toyota’s engineering philosophy. Power is delivered to all four wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. Fuel economy is rated at approximately 12.4 liters per 100 kilometers (19 US mpg) in urban driving and 10.2 liters per 100 kilometers (23.1 US mpg) in extra-urban conditions. The engine has a displacement of 2694 cm3 (164.4 cu. in.) and requires 5.8 liters (6.13 US qt) of engine oil.

Design & Features

The Tacoma II Access Cab is a two-door pickup truck with seating for four passengers. Its body-on-frame construction provides a sturdy platform for both on-road comfort and off-road capability. The Access Cab configuration features smaller rear doors and limited rear legroom, making it best suited for occasional passengers. The truck’s exterior design is characterized by a relatively boxy shape, typical of pickup trucks of the era, with a prominent grille and flared wheel arches.

Safety features for the 2004-2012 Tacoma II included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard equipment. Other features included a steering rack and pinion system for precise handling, and ventilated disc brakes on the front wheels, paired with drum brakes on the rear. The vehicle rides on 16-inch wheels fitted with 245/75 R16 tires. The Tacoma’s ride height (ground clearance) is a substantial 241 mm (9.49 in), enhancing its off-road prowess. The interior, while functional, prioritized durability over luxury, with hard-wearing materials and a straightforward layout. The Tacoma II Access Cab offered a practical and reliable transportation solution for those needing a versatile pickup truck.

Technical Specifications