The Tacoma Access Cab offers extra cargo or passenger room without the bulk of a 4-door body. The cargo bed inner liner is made of SMC plastic to minimize corrosion. An economical 159-bhp 2.7L I-4, or a powerful 236-bhp 4.0L V-6, combined with a 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic (2WD), or 5-speed automatic (4WD) are available. A 2WD Pre-Runner variant is a lower cost option for customers who don't need 4WD. Sport truck buyers should look at the 2WD Tacoma X-Runner with a 6-speed manual and 4.0L V-6. When properly equipped a Tacoma has a maximum payload of 1,400 lbs. and can tow up to 6,500 lbs. which meets the requirements of many pickup buyers. Options such as the TRD Off-Road Package, TRD Sport Package, and Towing Package allow buyers to customize the Tacoma according to their needs.

The 2012 Tacoma wears a new hood, bumper and grille on the outside and an updated instrument cluster on the inside.