The Toyota Tacoma II Single Cab (facelift 2012) represents a mid-cycle refresh of the second-generation Tacoma, a compact pickup truck that enjoyed significant popularity in the North American market. Introduced in 2005, the second-generation Tacoma aimed to blend rugged capability with improved comfort and refinement. The 2012 facelift brought updated styling, enhanced features, and continued the Tacoma’s reputation for reliability and strong resale value. While not a high-volume seller compared to full-size trucks, the Tacoma carved a niche for itself among buyers seeking a versatile and durable mid-size option. This particular configuration, the Single Cab with a 4.0-liter V6 engine and four-wheel drive, was geared towards utility and work-focused applications.
Toyota Tacoma II Single Cab (Facelift 2012): A Detailed Overview
The Tacoma II, particularly the facelifted models from 2012 onwards, built upon the foundation laid by its predecessor. Toyota recognized the growing demand for a pickup truck that could handle both daily driving duties and off-road adventures. The Single Cab configuration, with its two doors and minimal interior space, prioritized cargo capacity and functionality over passenger comfort. This made it a popular choice for tradespeople, outdoor enthusiasts, and those needing a dependable work truck. The 4.0-liter V6 engine provided a balance of power and fuel efficiency, while the four-wheel-drive system ensured capable traction in a variety of conditions.
Engine & Performance
Powering the 2012-2015 Toyota Tacoma Single Cab is the 1GR-FE 4.0-liter V6 engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant produces 236 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 360 Nm (265.52 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine features a robust cast-iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, contributing to its longevity and durability. The power-to-weight ratio of 7.8 kg/Hp (127.7 Hp/tonne) and torque-to-weight ratio of 5.1 kg/Nm (194.8 Nm/tonne) provide adequate performance for typical pickup truck tasks. Fuel is delivered via a multi-port manifold injection system, and the engine utilizes DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts) and D-VVT-i (Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) technology to optimize efficiency and responsiveness. The engine’s displacement is 3956 cm3 (241.41 cu. in.), with a bore of 94 mm (3.7 in.) and a stroke of 95 mm (3.74 in.). A compression ratio of 10:1 further contributes to its performance characteristics. The engine requires 5.2 liters (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) of oil and 9.7 liters (10.25 US qt | 8.53 UK qt) of coolant for optimal operation.
Design & Features
The Tacoma II Single Cab is a traditional pickup truck in terms of its body-on-frame construction. The 2012 facelift brought subtle but noticeable changes to the exterior, including a revised grille, headlights, and front bumper. The interior, while functional, prioritized durability over luxury. The Single Cab configuration offers seating for three passengers, but rear seat space is limited. The truck’s dimensions are 4836 mm (190.39 in.) in length, 1834 mm (72.2 in.) in width, and 1671 mm (65.79 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 2783 mm (109.57 in.). Ground clearance is a respectable 231 mm (9.09 in.). Key features included an anti-lock braking system (ABS) as standard equipment, reflecting a growing emphasis on safety. The suspension system consists of an independent McPherson strut setup in the front with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, and independent coil springs in the rear. The truck rides on 15-inch wheels with 215/70 R15 tires. The manual transmission offers six gears, providing a balance of fuel efficiency and driver control.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma II Single Cab (facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 V6 (236 Hp) 4WD |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.6 l/100 km (15.1 US mpg, 18.1 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 236 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 4000 rpm (265.52 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 1GR-FE |
| Engine displacement | 3956 cm3 (241.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm (3.7 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95 mm (3.74 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| 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 | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.7 l (10.25 US qt | 8.53 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1848 kg (4074.14 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2495 kg (5500.53 lbs.) |
| Max load | 647 kg (1426.39 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 | 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 | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual 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 (facelift 2012) remains a popular choice in the used vehicle market due to its reputation for reliability, durability, and off-road capability. Its simple, functional design and robust powertrain continue to appeal to buyers seeking a dependable and versatile pickup truck.
