The 2012 Toyota Tacoma, a consistently best-selling compact pickup truck, received significant updates focused on exterior styling, interior comfort, and technology enhancements. This article provides a detailed look at the key features and improvements that made the 2012 Tacoma a popular choice for truck enthusiasts.
Exterior and Interior Refresh
The 2012 Tacoma boasts a redesigned exterior with a new hood, grille, headlamps, and front bumper, giving it a more modern and aggressive appearance. The interior also underwent a significant transformation, featuring a redesigned center instrument panel with updated gauges, a new steering wheel, and a revised center stack with improved climate control and power point placement.
Further enhancing the interior, Toyota incorporated a high-contrast black theme for the center console, switch plates, dashboard, and upper door trim. The SR5 grade received a new seat fabric design, while Access and Double Cab models benefited from the addition of heavy-duty all-weather flooring. Recognizing the Tacoma’s versatility for both work and recreation, Toyota equipped the TRD Sport and Off-Road models with water-resistant fabric seat protection.
Technology and Convenience Upgrades
The 2012 Tacoma offers a range of technology and convenience features designed to enhance the driving experience. A larger, higher-resolution backup camera display (3.3-inch compared to the previous 2.4-inch) improves visibility, while a new temperature gauge provides more accurate readings. Available options include a rearview mirror with compass and HomeLink, vanity lamps on sun visors, an additional overhead storage compartment, and a rear-console storage box in Access Cab models. All models now feature two front-deck D-rings for increased cargo versatility.
Enhanced Audio Systems
Toyota significantly upgraded the audio systems in the 2012 Tacoma. Access Cab models offered a new six-speaker system with AM/FM/Satellite radio, a single-disc CD player, Bluetooth hands-free phone capability, and a USB port for connecting iPods, MP3 players, or flash drives.
Double Cab V6 models featured a more advanced display audio system with navigation, Toyota Entune services, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, HD Radio with iTunes tagging, and text/email-to-voice functionality. This premium system utilized a JBL GreenEdge audio system with seven speakers, designed for enhanced sound quality and reduced power consumption.
Performance and Powertrain Options
The 2012 Tacoma offered two engine options: a 2.7-liter four-cylinder producing 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.0-liter V6 delivering 236 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. Both engines featured Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) for optimized performance and fuel efficiency. Transmission choices included a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic for the V6, and a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic for the four-cylinder engine. When properly equipped, Access Cab models with the V6 Tow Package could tow up to 6,500 pounds.
The Tacoma X-Runner
The 2012 Tacoma lineup also included the X-Runner, a unique sport truck with a specially tuned chassis and the 4.0-liter V6 engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission. This performance-oriented model could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under seven seconds and boasted impressive handling capabilities. Visually, the X-Runner featured a full body kit, a hood scoop, integrated fog lamps, and a monochromatic exterior available in three colors. For enhanced performance, TRD offered a supercharger kit for the 4.0-liter V6, boosting output to 304 horsepower and 334 lb-ft of torque.
Conclusion
The 2012 Toyota Tacoma offered a compelling combination of rugged capability, refined styling, and updated technology. With a variety of configurations and powertrain options available, the Tacoma continued its legacy as a versatile and dependable truck for a wide range of drivers.
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