The Toyota Tacoma III Double Cab, specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2020, represents a significant iteration of Toyota’s popular mid-size pickup truck. Sold primarily in North America, the Tacoma has cultivated a strong reputation for reliability, durability, and off-road capability. The 2020 facelift brought updated styling, enhanced technology, and a refined powertrain, solidifying its position as a leading contender in the competitive pickup truck segment. This generation Tacoma caters to a diverse range of buyers, from weekend adventurers to daily commuters who require the versatility of a pickup.
Toyota Tacoma III Double Cab (2020-2023)
The Tacoma III, launched in 2015 and receiving a notable facelift in 2020, continued Toyota’s tradition of building robust and long-lasting trucks. The Double Cab configuration offers increased passenger space, making it a practical choice for families or those frequently carrying multiple passengers. The 2020 update focused on improving the truck’s aesthetics, adding more standard safety features, and refining the driving experience. While not a complete redesign, the facelift was enough to keep the Tacoma fresh and competitive against newer rivals.
Engine & Performance
The 2020-2023 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab facelift is powered by the 3.5-liter 2GR-FKS V6 engine, employing Toyota’s D-4S fuel injection system – a combination of direct and port injection. This engine produces 278 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 264.78 lb-ft of torque at 4600 rpm. The engine is longitudinally mounted at the front of the vehicle. The powertrain is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission featuring ECT-i (Electronic Controlled Transmission – intelligent) technology, designed to optimize shift points for both fuel efficiency and performance. The Tacoma utilizes a part-time four-wheel-drive system, allowing drivers to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive depending on road conditions. The weight-to-power ratio stands at 7.4 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 5.7 kg/Nm, indicating a reasonably responsive driving experience. Fuel economy is rated at 19.9 US mpg combined (11.8 l/100 km), with 18 US mpg (13.1 l/100 km) in urban settings and 22 US mpg (10.7 l/100 km) on the highway. The Tacoma meets ULEV III emission standards.
Design & Features
The Tacoma Double Cab is a four-door pickup truck with a seating capacity of five passengers. The body style is characterized by a rugged and utilitarian design, reflecting its intended use. The 2020 facelift brought subtle but noticeable changes to the front fascia, including a redesigned grille, headlights, and bumper. Inside, the cabin features a functional layout with durable materials. Standard features typically include a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels offer additional amenities such as leather upholstery, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Safety features, enhanced in the 2020 update, include Toyota Safety Sense P, which incorporates pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, and dynamic radar cruise control. The Tacoma’s off-road prowess is enhanced by features like available locking rear differential, crawl control, and multi-terrain select.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma III Double Cab (facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V6 D-4S (278 Hp) 4WD ECT-i |
| Start of production | 2020 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 US mpg, 23.9 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | ULEV III |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 278 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.4 Hp/l |
| 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 | 2064 kg (4550.34 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2540 kg (5599.74 lbs.) |
| Max load | 476 kg (1049.4 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Permitted towbar download | 159 kg (350.53 lbs.) |
| Length | 5392 mm (212.28 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Height | 1793-1819 mm (70.59 – 71.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3236 mm (127.4 in.) |
| Front track | 1600-1626 mm (62.99 – 64.02 in.) |
| Rear track | 1605-1631 mm (63.19 – 64.21 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 239 mm (9.41 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.386 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.4 m (40.68 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 29-35° |
| Departure angle | 23.5-23.9° |
| Ramp-over angle | 21-23.9° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 Toyota Tacoma III Double Cab (2020-2023) continues to be a popular choice for truck buyers seeking a blend of capability, reliability, and resale value. Its robust construction, comfortable interior, and available features make it a well-rounded vehicle suitable for a wide range of applications.
