2012 Toyota Tacoma: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2012 Toyota Tacoma gets a broad mid-cycle refresh led by new front-end styling and a redesigned cabin. Its engines, transmissions, cab choices, and basic truck design carry over.
About the 2012 Toyota Tacoma
2nd generation Tacoma (2005-2015), first year of the 2012-2015 facelift.
Toyota positions the Tacoma as the midsize pickup for both job-site duty and weekend use. The messaging centers on durability and flexibility: a tough composite bed, sturdy frame construction, multiple cab and bed choices, two engine options, and either 2WD or 4WD depending on how the truck is used. Compared with full-size pickups, Tacoma’s core appeal is real truck capability in a smaller package that is easier to live with every day.
The base Tacoma remains the practical work-focused truck, while the taller PreRunner brings 4x4-style looks without four-wheel drive. The street-focused X-Runner stands out with a V6, six-speed manual, lowered sport suspension, 18-inch wheels, and upgraded audio.
What changed, by category
2012 Toyota Tacoma specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.7 Liter / V6, 4.0 Liter | V6, 4.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.7 Liter / V6, 4.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 4-Spd / Automatic, 5-Spd | Manual, 6-Spd | Automatic, 4-Spd / Automatic, 5-Spd |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD | 2WD | 2WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 16–19 mpg | 16 mpg | 17–19 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 21–24 mpg | 21 mpg | 21–24 mpg |
| Horsepower | 159–236 hp | 236 hp | 159–236 hp |
| Torque | 180–266 lb-ft | 266 lb-ft | 180–266 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3500–6500 lb | 3300 lb | 3500–6500 lb |
| Rear Legroom | 24.7–32.7 in | 24.7 in | 24.7–32.7 in |
| Seats | 3–5 | 4 | 4–5 |
| Doors | 2–4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Cruise Control | |||
| Hill Descent Control | |||
| Hill Start Assist | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Fog Lights | |||
| Privacy Glass | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Tow Hooks | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| 115V Power Outlet | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Power Driver's Lumbar Support Seat | |||
| Remote Keyless Entry | |||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2012 Toyota Tacoma a full redesign?
No. The 2012 Tacoma is a mid-cycle refresh within the second generation, not a ground-up redesign. It keeps the same platform and basic truck design while receiving substantial exterior and cabin updates.
What changed on the outside of the 2012 Toyota Tacoma?
The 2012 Tacoma gets a redesigned hood, grille, headlamps, and front bumper across the lineup. These changes give it a newer face without altering the frame, bed design, or basic chassis layout.
What changed inside the 2012 Toyota Tacoma?
The 2012 Tacoma gets a redesigned center instrument panel, revised gauge cluster, new steering wheel, updated center-stack layout, and relocated power points. The changes modernize the cabin and improve everyday usability.
Did the 2012 Toyota Tacoma get new engines or transmissions?
No. The 2012 Tacoma keeps its 2.7-liter four-cylinder and 4.0-liter V6, with no lineup-wide engine or transmission changes. The refresh focuses on styling and the cabin rather than mechanical hardware.
Is the 2012 Toyota Tacoma meaningfully different from the 2011 model?
Yes, mainly in appearance and cabin design. The 2012 model has a new front end, revised dashboard area, updated gauges, a new steering wheel, and small usability improvements, but its engines and basic chassis carry over.