The Toyota Tacoma has consistently reigned as a top choice in the mid-size truck segment, lauded for its reliability, off-road capability, and strong resale value. Among the various configurations available, the Double Cab Tacoma stands out as a popular option, offering a balance of passenger space and bed utility. But before you commit, understanding the exact dimensions is crucial. This article provides an in-depth look at the length of a Double Cab Tacoma, exploring variations across different model years, trim levels, and configurations to give you a complete picture.
Understanding Tacoma Cab Configurations
To properly understand the length of a Double Cab Tacoma, it’s essential to differentiate between the various cab configurations available. Toyota offers two primary cab styles for the Tacoma: the Access Cab and the Double Cab.
The Access Cab features a smaller rear seating area accessed by rear-hinged doors, often referred to as “suicide doors.” This configuration prioritizes bed length and is typically paired with a longer bed.
The Double Cab, the focus of this article, offers a more spacious rear seating area with traditional, forward-hinged doors. This provides more comfortable accommodations for rear passengers, making it a popular choice for families or those who frequently travel with others.
Overall Length of a Double Cab Tacoma: Model Year Variations
The overall length of a Double Cab Tacoma can vary depending on the model year and bed length. Toyota has made subtle dimensional changes over the years, so it’s important to consider the specific year you’re interested in.
Generally, Double Cab Tacomas come with either a 5-foot short bed or a 6-foot standard bed. This difference in bed length directly impacts the overall length of the truck. The 5-foot bed configuration is the more common choice for Double Cab models, emphasizing passenger space over maximum cargo capacity.
2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab Length
The third-generation Tacoma, introduced in 2016, saw significant updates to the design and features of the truck. Here’s a breakdown of the overall length of Double Cab models from 2016 to 2023:
- Double Cab with 5-Foot Bed: The overall length typically measures around 212.3 inches (approximately 17.7 feet).
- Double Cab with 6-Foot Bed: The overall length extends to approximately 225.5 inches (approximately 18.8 feet).
It’s crucial to remember that these measurements can vary slightly depending on the specific trim level and any factory-installed accessories. For example, a TRD Pro model might have a slightly different length due to its unique bumpers or suspension components.
Impact of Trim Level on Length
While the core dimensions remain consistent within a given model year and bed length, certain trim levels might introduce slight variations. For example, the TRD Pro, with its aggressive front bumper and lifted suspension, might have a marginally different overall length compared to a base SR5 model.
Similarly, models equipped with aftermarket accessories, such as bull bars or oversized tires, will naturally have altered overall dimensions. Always consult the vehicle’s specifications or measure it yourself to obtain the most accurate measurement.
Factors Affecting the Perceived Length of Your Tacoma
Beyond the actual physical dimensions, several factors can influence how long your Double Cab Tacoma feels in real-world driving and parking situations.
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Turning Radius: A longer wheelbase, associated with the 6-foot bed, generally results in a wider turning radius. This can make maneuvering in tight spaces more challenging.
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Parking Space Considerations: A Double Cab with the 6-foot bed can be difficult to park in standard parking spaces, potentially requiring you to hang over the curb or take up extra space. Careful attention is needed when parking in urban environments.
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Garage Fit: Before purchasing, it’s wise to measure your garage to ensure that a Double Cab Tacoma, especially one with the 6-foot bed, will fit comfortably. Allow for adequate clearance to avoid accidental damage.
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Visibility: While not directly related to length, the height of the Tacoma, particularly with a lift kit, can affect visibility and contribute to the perception of its size.
Comparing Tacoma Double Cab Length to Competitors
Understanding how the Double Cab Tacoma’s length compares to its competitors can help you make an informed decision.
The Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon are key competitors in the mid-size truck market. Generally, their Double Cab configurations with comparable bed lengths have similar overall lengths to the Tacoma. However, specific measurements can vary depending on the model year and configuration.
The Ford Ranger, another significant competitor, also offers a SuperCrew cab configuration comparable to the Tacoma’s Double Cab. Again, the overall length is generally similar, but detailed specifications should be compared before making a purchase.
It is always best to compare the technical specifications of each vehicle on the manufacturer’s website for the specific model year and configuration that you are considering.
Why Knowing the Length Matters
Knowing the exact length of your Double Cab Tacoma is important for a variety of practical reasons:
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Parking: As mentioned, it influences your ability to park comfortably in various spaces.
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Garage Fit: It determines whether the truck will fit in your garage without issue.
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Off-Roading: The wheelbase and overall length affect the truck’s maneuverability on trails. A longer wheelbase can reduce the break-over angle, increasing the risk of getting high-centered.
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Towing and Hauling: While not directly related to length, knowing the dimensions helps in planning for towing and hauling, ensuring adequate clearance and stability.
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Accessories: When purchasing accessories like bed covers or running boards, you’ll need to know the bed length and overall dimensions to ensure a proper fit.
Measuring Your Tacoma’s Length Accurately
While published specifications are helpful, the most accurate way to determine the length of your Double Cab Tacoma is to measure it yourself. Here’s how:
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Find a Level Surface: Park your Tacoma on a flat, level surface.
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Use a Measuring Tape: Use a long measuring tape or a laser measuring tool for the most accurate results.
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Measure from Bumper to Bumper: Measure from the outermost point of the front bumper to the outermost point of the rear bumper.
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Account for Accessories: Be sure to account for any aftermarket accessories, such as a front bull bar or a trailer hitch, as these can add to the overall length.
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Double-Check Your Measurement: Take multiple measurements to ensure accuracy.
The Future of Tacoma Dimensions
As Toyota continues to innovate and update the Tacoma, future models may see changes in dimensions. It’s essential to stay informed about the specifications of new models as they are released to understand how these changes might impact your needs and preferences. Keep an eye on official Toyota announcements and reputable automotive news sources for the latest information.
Conclusion: Length Matters When Choosing Your Tacoma
The length of a Double Cab Tacoma is a critical factor to consider when making a purchase. Understanding the variations based on model year, bed length, and trim level will help you choose the right configuration for your needs. By carefully considering these dimensions and their impact on driving, parking, and overall utility, you can make an informed decision and enjoy your Tacoma to the fullest. Remember to consider how the length interacts with turning radius and parking availability, as these elements contribute to your overall ownership experience.
What is the overall length of a Toyota Tacoma Double Cab?
The overall length of a Toyota Tacoma Double Cab varies slightly depending on the bed length. For the Double Cab model with the standard 6-foot bed, the overall length is approximately 225.5 inches (18 feet 9.5 inches). The Double Cab model paired with the shorter 5-foot bed has an overall length of around 212.3 inches (17 feet 8.3 inches).
This difference in length is solely attributable to the bed size. Remember to consult the specific model year and trim level’s specifications on the official Toyota website or your local dealership for the most precise measurement, as minor variations may exist. Knowing the exact length is crucial for parking, garage storage, and ensuring the vehicle fits within designated spaces.
How does the Double Cab’s length compare to the Access Cab Tacoma?
The Double Cab Tacoma is generally longer than the Access Cab model. While the Access Cab is offered only with a longer bed, its shorter cab results in a smaller overall length. This makes the Access Cab slightly more maneuverable in tight spaces, but it offers less rear passenger room.
For example, the Access Cab with the long bed typically measures around 212.3 inches in length, equivalent to the Double Cab with the short bed. Choosing between the two cab styles involves balancing the need for passenger space against the vehicle’s overall footprint and maneuverability.
Does the bed length affect the Double Cab’s turning radius?
Yes, the bed length directly impacts the turning radius of a Toyota Tacoma Double Cab. The longer the vehicle, the larger the turning circle required for maneuvers. The Double Cab with the 6-foot bed will generally have a wider turning radius compared to the Double Cab model with the 5-foot bed.
This is a vital factor to consider, especially if you frequently navigate tight parking lots or urban environments. A smaller turning radius allows for easier parking and U-turns, making the shorter bed option more practical for certain driving conditions. Consider your typical driving routes and parking situations when deciding on the bed length.
Are there length differences between different model years of the Double Cab Tacoma?
While the core dimensions of the Toyota Tacoma Double Cab remain consistent across generations, minor variations in length might exist between different model years and trim levels. These differences are usually negligible, often stemming from slight bumper or trim design changes.
It is always recommended to consult the official specifications for the specific model year you are interested in purchasing. These specifications can be found on the Toyota website or in the owner’s manual. These resources provide the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the vehicle’s dimensions.
How does the length of the Double Cab Tacoma compare to other mid-size trucks?
The Toyota Tacoma Double Cab generally falls within the average length range for mid-size trucks. It’s comparable to models like the Chevrolet Colorado and Ford Ranger, although slight variations may exist depending on the specific configuration and bed length of each truck.
Factors like cab style and bed length play a significant role in determining the overall length of a mid-size truck. When comparing different models, it’s essential to consider these factors and consult the official specifications for each vehicle to make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
What should I consider when measuring my Double Cab Tacoma’s length for garage space?
When measuring your Double Cab Tacoma’s length to determine if it fits in your garage, ensure you account for any protruding parts, such as the front bumper, rear tow hitch, or aftermarket accessories. It’s best to leave a few inches of buffer space at both the front and rear of the vehicle for easier maneuvering.
Consider also the height of your garage door opening, especially if you have a lifted Tacoma or a roof rack installed. Accurate measurements are crucial to prevent damage to your vehicle or your garage door. It’s better to overestimate the space required than to underestimate and risk a collision.
Does the trim level (e.g., TRD Off-Road, Limited) affect the length of the Double Cab Tacoma?
Generally, the trim level itself does not directly impact the overall length of the Double Cab Tacoma. The key factor influencing the length is the bed size: either the 5-foot or the 6-foot option. While certain trim levels might come standard with a specific bed length, the underlying dimensions remain consistent.
However, it’s important to consider that certain trim levels may include additional features like aftermarket bumpers or accessories, which could slightly alter the overall length. Always double-check the specifications for the particular trim level you’re interested in to ensure accurate measurements, especially if space is a concern.