The Toyota Tacoma II Double Cab, produced from 2004 to 2012, represents the second generation of Toyota’s popular compact pickup truck. Sold primarily in North America, the Tacoma II built upon the success of its predecessor, offering increased size, refinement, and capability. This generation Tacoma catered to a growing demand for versatile trucks capable of both work and family duties, establishing itself as a leading contender in the mid-size truck segment. The 4.0-liter V6 Double Cab model, generating 236 horsepower, was a particularly popular configuration, balancing power with Toyota’s reputation for reliability.
Toyota Tacoma II Double Cab: An Overview
The Tacoma II Double Cab was designed to address the needs of a broader customer base than the original Tacoma. While remaining a rugged and capable truck, the second generation prioritized interior space and comfort, particularly with the introduction of the Double Cab configuration, which offered seating for five passengers. This model year saw significant improvements in ride quality, handling, and safety features, making it a more appealing option for daily driving. The 4.0-liter V6 engine provided ample power for towing and hauling, while maintaining reasonable fuel efficiency for its class.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2004-2012 Toyota Tacoma II Double Cab 4.0 V6 is the 1GR-FE 4.0-liter V6 engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 236 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 360 Nm (265.52 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine features a longitudinal front engine layout, multi-port fuel injection, and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (D-VVT-i). This configuration delivers a good balance of power and responsiveness, suitable for both on-road and off-road driving. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 7.4 kg/Hp (134.9 Hp/tonne), and the torque-to-weight ratio is 4.9 kg/Nm (205.8 Nm/tonne). Power per liter is rated at 59.7 Hp/l. The engine is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, delivering power to the rear wheels. Fuel consumption is rated at 13 l/100 km (18.1 US mpg, 21.7 UK mpg, 7.7 km/l) in urban conditions and 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg, 26.6 UK mpg, 9.4 km/l) in extra-urban driving.
Design & Features
The Toyota Tacoma II Double Cab is a four-door pickup truck designed with a focus on practicality and durability. Its body-on-frame construction provides a robust platform for handling various terrains and payloads. The Double Cab configuration significantly expanded the rear passenger space compared to the standard cab models, making it a more family-friendly option. The truck’s exterior design is characterized by a relatively conservative, yet functional aesthetic. Ground clearance is a notable 241 mm (9.49 in), enhancing its off-road capability. Safety features included Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard equipment. The interior, while not luxurious, was designed for durability and ease of use, with comfortable seating and a functional dashboard layout. The Tacoma II Double Cab offered a versatile cargo bed for hauling equipment and materials, further enhancing its utility.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma II Double Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 V6 (236 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | August, 2004 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13 l/100 km (18.1 US mpg, 21.7 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg, 26.6 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 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 |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95 mm (3.74 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| 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 | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.6 l (10.14 US qt | 8.45 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1749 kg (3855.88 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2427 kg (5350.62 lbs.) |
| Max load | 678 kg (1494.73 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 | 1781 mm (70.12 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3246 mm (127.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear track | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 241 mm (9.49 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 4.0 V6 Automatic remains a popular choice in the used truck market due to its reputation for reliability, versatility, and relatively low cost of ownership. Its blend of capability, comfort, and practicality continues to appeal to a wide range of buyers seeking a dependable mid-size pickup truck.
