The Tacoma was the best-selling compact pickup on the U.S. market in 2010, and Toyota tried to keep the momentum by introducing a facelifted version in 2011 for the 2012 model year.

While the Tacoma didn’t necessarily need a facelift, the carmaker did it anyway. Thus, it could show a revised front fascia and make new billboards where it bragged about its results. It was a rugged vehicle fit as a workhorse and friendly as a family car. But the Access Cab was more of a work truck.

The single-cab version was a working vehicle fit to carry a lawnmower in the bed and other tools for a two-people-job. With the Access-Cab, it was different. It could get four people inside, but only for short distances or if those in the back had shorter feet. Its rear-hinged rear doors helped them getting in and out more quickly. At the back, it featured a bed fit for a ton of bricks.

Inside, depending on the options, it provided a black center console, switch plate, dashboard, and doors. For the SR5 version, Toyota added a new fabric design for the seats, while the TRD package (sport package) came with water-resistant upholstery. The Japanese carmaker added more audio systems, including an infotainment unit with navigation and the Toyota Entune service.

Under the hood, the Tundra Access cab offered two engine choices that provided 171 hp or 239 hp. Toyota paired them with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic, with rear or 4x4 systems with a high and low-range transfer case.