The Toyota Tacoma II Single Cab 2.7 (159 Hp) Automatic, produced from 2004 to 2012, represents a significant iteration in Toyota’s popular compact pickup truck lineage. This generation Tacoma, while not initially designed for the US market as a primary offering (the Tacoma was already well-established in North America), built upon the success of its predecessor, offering increased refinement, capability, and a broader range of configurations. The Single Cab variant, specifically with the 2.7-liter engine and automatic transmission, catered to buyers prioritizing functionality and affordability over passenger space, often finding use in commercial applications or as a rugged work vehicle. It occupied a key position in the competitive mid-size truck segment, facing rivals like the Ford Ranger and Nissan Frontier.
Toyota Tacoma II Single Cab: A Detailed Overview
The Tacoma II, introduced in 2004, marked a substantial redesign of the original Tacoma, which debuted in 1995. While the first generation Tacoma quickly gained a reputation for reliability and off-road prowess, the second generation aimed to broaden its appeal with improved on-road manners, enhanced interior comfort, and increased safety features. The Single Cab configuration, characterized by its two doors and three-person seating capacity, remained a popular choice for those needing a practical and durable truck without the added bulk or cost of an extended or double cab. The 2.7-liter engine option provided a balance between fuel efficiency and adequate power for everyday tasks and light-duty hauling.
Engine & Performance
Powering the Toyota Tacoma II Single Cab 2.7 is the 2TR-FE 2.7-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 159 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 244 Nm (179.97 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3800 rpm. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain with D-VVT-i (Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) technology. This technology optimizes valve timing for improved performance and fuel efficiency across a wider range of engine speeds. The engine’s longitudinal front-mounted layout contributes to a balanced weight distribution. The Tacoma’s weight-to-power ratio is 9.2 kg/Hp, and its weight-to-torque ratio is 6 kg/Nm. The 4-speed automatic transmission delivers power to the rear wheels, providing smooth and reliable shifting. Fuel economy is rated at 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg) in urban driving and 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) in extra-urban conditions.
Design & Features
The Toyota Tacoma II Single Cab is a traditional pick-up truck body style, featuring a separate chassis and body construction. The Single Cab configuration offers a practical and utilitarian design, prioritizing cargo space and durability. The truck’s exterior styling is characterized by a robust and angular appearance, reflecting its intended use as a work vehicle. Key features include a sturdy steel bed, a comfortable (for its class) interior, and a range of available options, such as air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. Safety features, while not as comprehensive as modern vehicles, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The Tacoma’s independent front suspension (McPherson strut with coil spring and anti-roll bar) and independent coil spring rear suspension contribute to a relatively comfortable ride, especially considering its truck-based construction. The vehicle’s 206 mm (8.11 in) of ground clearance provides adequate capability for off-road driving and navigating rough terrain.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma II Single Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 (159 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | August, 2004 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 159 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Torque | 244 Nm @ 3800 rpm (179.97 lb.-ft. @ 3800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 2TR-FE |
| Engine displacement | 2694 cm3 (164.4 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, D-VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.6 l (9.09 US qt | 7.57 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1461 kg (3220.95 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2064 kg (4550.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 603 kg (1329.39 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4836 mm (190.39 in.) |
| Width | 1834 mm (72.2 in.) |
| Height | 1669 mm (65.71 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2779 mm (109.41 in.) |
| Front track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Rear track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 206 mm (8.11 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 4 |
| 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 | 215/70 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Toyota Tacoma II Single Cab 2.7 Automatic, while a relatively basic offering in the Tacoma lineup, proved to be a reliable and capable work truck. Its combination of durability, fuel efficiency, and affordability made it a popular choice for both personal and commercial use. The vehicle’s enduring reputation for dependability continues to contribute to the Tacoma’s strong resale value and loyal following.
