The Toyota Tacoma III Double Cab Long 2.7, produced from 2015 to 2020, represents the third generation of Toyota’s popular mid-size pickup truck. This iteration of the Tacoma, primarily sold in North and South America, continued the model’s reputation for reliability, off-road capability, and strong resale value. The “Double Cab Long” configuration designates a larger cab offering increased rear passenger space, catering to families and those needing more interior room. The 2.7-liter engine option provided a balance of affordability and adequate power for everyday use, making it a popular choice for both work and recreational purposes.
Toyota Tacoma III Double Cab Long 2.7: An Overview
The Tacoma has been a mainstay in the American pickup truck market since its introduction in 1995. The third generation, launched in 2015, brought with it a more aggressive exterior design, a refined interior, and updated technology. While the Tacoma faced competition from the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, and Nissan Frontier, it consistently outsold its rivals, largely due to Toyota’s established brand loyalty and the Tacoma’s proven durability. The 2.7-liter engine variant, while not the most powerful option in the Tacoma lineup, offered a cost-effective entry point into the mid-size truck segment.
Engine & Performance
The Tacoma III Double Cab Long 2.7 is powered by the 2TR-FE 2.7-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 159 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 245 Newton-meters (180.7 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3800 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i) technology, optimizing performance and fuel efficiency. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. While not designed for outright speed, the 2.7-liter engine provides sufficient power for typical pickup truck duties, including hauling and towing. Fuel economy is rated at 11.2 liters per 100 kilometers (21 US mpg) combined, with 12.4 l/100km (19 US mpg) in urban settings and 10.2 l/100km (23.1 US mpg) on the highway. The engine’s longitudinal front-mounted layout contributes to the truck’s balanced handling characteristics.
Design & Features
The Tacoma III Double Cab Long is a four-door pickup truck with a 5-passenger seating capacity. The Double Cab configuration provides significantly more rear legroom compared to the Access Cab model, enhancing passenger comfort. The truck’s exterior design is characterized by a bold front grille, sculpted body lines, and a robust stance. The 2.7-liter models typically came with standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system. Safety features included Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Higher trim levels offered additional features like alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, and advanced safety technologies. The Tacoma’s body-on-frame construction provides a solid foundation for both on-road comfort and off-road capability. The truck’s ride height (ground clearance) of 239 mm (9.41 inches) allows for navigating moderately challenging terrain. The Tacoma’s interior was designed with durability and practicality in mind, featuring easy-to-clean surfaces and a functional layout.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma III Double Cab Long |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 (159 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 2015 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 159 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 59 Hp/l |
| Torque | 245 Nm @ 3800 rpm (180.7 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 |
| Cylinder Bore | 95 mm (3.74 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95 mm (3.74 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC-VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.6 l (9.09 US qt | 7.57 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 2540 kg (5599.74 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 79 l (20.87 US gal | 17.38 UK gal) |
| Length | 5728 mm (225.51 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Height | 1793 mm (70.59 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3571 mm (140.59 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 239 mm (9.41 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 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 | 245/75 R16; 265/70 R16; 265/65 R17; 265/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17; 18 |
The Toyota Tacoma III Double Cab Long 2.7 remains a popular choice in the used truck market due to its reputation for reliability, practicality, and off-road capability. While not the most powerful or technologically advanced pickup truck in its class, it offers a compelling combination of features and value, making it a sensible option for a wide range of buyers.
