The Toyota Tacoma is a mid-size pickup truck manufactured by Toyota since 1995. The Tacoma has been a consistently popular choice in the North American market, known for its reliability, durability, and off-road capability. The third generation, introduced in 2016, received a significant facelift in 2020, enhancing its styling, technology, and features. This article details the 2020-2023 Toyota Tacoma III Access Cab, specifically equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 D-4S engine and ECT-i transmission.
Toyota Tacoma III Access Cab (2020-2023)
The Tacoma III represents a substantial evolution of the Tacoma lineage. The 2020 facelift brought updated front-end styling, including a more prominent grille and redesigned headlights. Interior improvements focused on enhanced infotainment systems and added safety features. The Access Cab configuration provides a smaller rear seating area compared to the Double Cab, prioritizing cargo space and overall vehicle length. This model caters to buyers seeking a versatile and rugged pickup for both work and recreational purposes.
Engine & Performance
The 2020-2023 Toyota Tacoma Access Cab facelift is primarily powered by the 2GR-FKS 3.5-liter V6 engine, utilizing Toyota’s D-4S fuel injection system – a combination of direct and port injection. This configuration produces 278 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 264.78 lb-ft of torque at 4600 rpm. The engine features a longitudinally mounted configuration and a naturally aspirated design, coupled with Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) for optimized performance and efficiency. The powertrain is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission designated ECT-i (Electronically Controlled Transmission – intelligent).
Fuel economy figures are rated at 12.4 liters per 100 kilometers (19 US mpg) in urban driving, 9.8 liters per 100 kilometers (24 US mpg) in extra-urban conditions, and a combined consumption of 11.2 liters per 100 kilometers (21 US mpg). The Tacoma meets ULEV III emission standards, demonstrating Toyota’s commitment to reducing environmental impact. The weight-to-power ratio stands at 6.6 kg/Hp, while the weight-to-torque ratio is 5.1 kg/Nm, indicating a responsive and capable powertrain.
Design & Features
The Tacoma Access Cab is a two-door pickup truck with seating for four passengers. Its body-on-frame construction contributes to its robust nature and off-road prowess. The 2020 facelift brought a more aggressive and modern exterior design. Key features include a prominent front grille, redesigned headlights, and updated taillights. The interior received upgrades to the infotainment system, including available touchscreen displays and smartphone integration.
Safety features are a priority in this generation, with standard inclusion of Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The Tacoma boasts a ground clearance of 239 mm (9.41 inches), providing ample capability for navigating rough terrain. Approach, departure, and breakover angles are 29°, 23.5°, and 24° respectively, further enhancing its off-road credentials. The Tacoma’s dimensions are 5392 mm (212.28 inches) in length, 1890 mm (74.41 inches) in width, and 1793 mm (70.59 inches) in height, with a wheelbase of 3236 mm (127.4 inches). The drag coefficient is rated at 0.388.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma III Access Cab (facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V6 D-4S (278 Hp) ECT-i |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | ULEV III |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 278 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 359 Nm @ 4600 rpm (264.78 lb.-ft. @ 4600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 2GR-FKS |
| Engine displacement | 3456 cm3 (210.9 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 93.98 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83.06 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 10.9 l (11.52 US qt | 9.59 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1848 kg (4074.14 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2540 kg (5599.74 lbs.) |
| Max load | 692 kg (1525.6 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1588 kg (3500.94 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 159 kg (350.53 lbs.) |
| 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 track | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 239 mm (9.41 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.388 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.4 m (40.68 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 29° |
| Departure angle | 23.5° |
| Ramp-over angle | 24° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Type of gearbox | Automatic transmission ECT-i |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Transverse stabilizer, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 273.05 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 254 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/75 R16; 265/70 R16; 265/65 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
The 2020-2023 Toyota Tacoma III Access Cab with the 3.5-liter V6 engine continues the Tacoma’s reputation as a reliable, capable, and versatile mid-size pickup truck. Its blend of modern technology, robust construction, and off-road capability makes it a popular choice for a wide range of buyers.
