The Toyota Tacoma is a mid-size pickup truck manufactured by Toyota since 1995. The Tacoma replaced the Hilux in the North American market. The second generation, known as the Tacoma II, was produced from 2005 to 2015. This article details the facelifted version of the Tacoma II Single Cab, specifically those produced between 2012 and 2015, equipped with the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine and a four-wheel-drive automatic transmission. This configuration was primarily aimed at buyers seeking a rugged, reliable, and affordable work truck or recreational vehicle.
Toyota Tacoma II Single Cab (2012-2015): An Overview
The 2012-2015 Toyota Tacoma II Single Cab represented a mid-cycle refresh of the second-generation Tacoma. While the core structure remained largely unchanged from the initial 2005 launch, the facelift brought subtle styling updates, improved interior materials, and enhanced features. The Single Cab configuration, with its two doors and seating for three, catered to a niche market prioritizing utility and affordability over passenger comfort. It was a popular choice for fleet vehicles, construction workers, and individuals needing a durable truck for hauling and off-road adventures. The 2.7-liter engine option provided a balance between fuel economy and sufficient power for everyday tasks.
Engine & Performance
The 2012-2015 Toyota Tacoma II Single Cab with the 2.7-liter engine is powered by the 2TR-FE 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 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. Power is delivered to all four wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission. The weight-to-power ratio of 10.7 kg/Hp (93.4 Hp/tonne) indicates a modest power output relative to the vehicle’s weight, prioritizing durability and reliability over outright acceleration. Fuel economy is rated at 13 liters per 100 kilometers (18.1 US mpg) in urban driving and 11.2 liters per 100 kilometers (21 US mpg) in extra-urban conditions. The engine’s 2.7-liter (164.4 cu. in.) displacement provides a good compromise between power and fuel consumption for a vehicle of this type.
Design & Features
The Tacoma II Single Cab maintains the traditional pickup truck silhouette. Its body-on-frame construction contributes to its ruggedness and durability. The 2012 facelift included minor cosmetic changes to the front grille, headlights, and bumper. The interior, while functional, is relatively spartan compared to more modern pickups. The Single Cab configuration offers limited passenger space, with a bench seat accommodating three occupants. Standard features typically included air conditioning, an AM/FM radio, and basic safety equipment like anti-lock brakes (ABS). The truck’s 80-liter (21.13 US gal) fuel tank provides a substantial driving range. The Tacoma’s high ground clearance of 231 mm (9.09 in.) enhances its off-road capability. 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.) – make it relatively maneuverable in urban environments while still offering a useful cargo bed.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma II Single Cab (facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 (159 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13 l/100 km (18.1 US mpg, 21.7 UK mpg, 7.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.7 kg/Hp (93.4 Hp/tonne) |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7 kg/Nm (143.3 Nm/tonne) |
| Power | 159 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 59 Hp/l |
| 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 engine |
| 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 | 1703 kg (3754.47 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2313 kg (5099.29 lbs.) |
| Max load | 610 kg (1344.82 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) | 231 mm (9.09 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type 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 (2012-2015) 2.7 4WD Automatic remains a popular choice in the used vehicle market due to its reputation for reliability, durability, and off-road capability. While not the most refined or powerful pickup truck available, it offers a practical and affordable solution for those needing a dependable workhorse.
