The Toyota Tacoma II Single Cab (facelift 2012) 2.7 represents a mid-cycle refresh of the second-generation Tacoma, a compact pickup truck that has become synonymous with reliability and off-road capability in the North American market. Introduced in 2005, the second-generation Tacoma aimed to modernize the platform while retaining the rugged character of its predecessor. The 2012 facelift brought subtle styling updates, improved interior materials, and refinements to the available features. This particular variant, powered by the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine, was positioned as the entry-level offering, prioritizing affordability and fuel efficiency over outright performance. While not as popular as the V6-equipped models, the 2.7-liter Tacoma served a valuable niche for buyers seeking a dependable and economical work truck or a basic off-road platform.
Toyota Tacoma II Single Cab (Facelift 2012) 2.7: Overview
The Tacoma, in general, holds a significant place in Toyota’s lineup and the American pickup truck landscape. Unlike many competitors that have shifted towards larger and more luxurious offerings, the Tacoma has largely maintained its focus on practicality, durability, and off-road prowess. The Single Cab configuration, while less common than the Access Cab or Double Cab, catered to buyers who prioritized cargo space and a minimalist approach. The 2012 facelift aimed to keep the Tacoma competitive by addressing some of the criticisms leveled at the earlier second-generation models, particularly regarding interior quality and feature availability.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 2012 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. While not a powerhouse, the 2TR-FE is known for its longevity and relatively simple design. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with variable valve timing (D-VVT-i) to optimize performance and fuel efficiency across a wider range of engine speeds. The weight-to-power ratio of 9.1 kg/Hp (109.5 Hp/tonne) reflects the truck’s modest power output relative to its weight. Fuel economy is rated at 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg) in urban driving and 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg) on the highway. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout contributes to a balanced weight distribution.
Design & Features
The 2012 Tacoma II Single Cab maintains the rugged, utilitarian aesthetic of the second-generation Tacoma. The body-on-frame construction provides a robust foundation for both on-road and off-road driving. The Single Cab configuration features two doors and a seating capacity of three. The interior, while updated with improved materials in the 2012 facelift, remains focused on functionality rather than luxury. Standard features typically included air conditioning, a basic audio system, and power windows and locks. Safety features, such as Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), were standard equipment. The truck’s dimensions – a length of 4836 mm (190.39 in.), a width of 1834 mm (72.2 in.), and a height of 1671 mm (65.79 in.) – position it squarely within the compact pickup truck segment. A key design element is the 206 mm (8.11 in.) of ground clearance, enhancing its off-road capability. The truck’s curb weight is 1452 kg (3201.11 lbs), with a maximum payload capacity of 612 kg (1349.23 lbs).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma II Single Cab (facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 (159 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 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 | 8.7 l (9.19 US qt | 7.65 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1452 kg (3201.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2064 kg (4550.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 612 kg (1349.23 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 | 1671 mm (65.79 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2783 mm (109.57 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 | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual 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 (facelift 2012) 2.7, while not the most powerful or luxurious pickup truck on the market, offered a compelling combination of reliability, affordability, and off-road capability. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Toyota’s commitment to building durable and dependable vehicles that meet the needs of a wide range of buyers.
