The 2016 Tacoma Access Cab layout and seating

The 2016 Toyota Tacoma Access Cab is a mid-size pickup truck with a two-door configuration and a smaller rear door that opens backward. The rear doors are hinged at the back of the cab and swing outward, giving access to a cramped rear seating area behind the front seats. This design lets you carry passengers without the footprint of a full four-door crew cab.

The rear seat in an Access Cab is tight — it has about 28 inches of legroom, which works for children or short trips but feels confined for adults on longer drives. The seat itself folds up to reveal storage space, a feature many owners use for tools or gear instead of passengers. If you regularly need to transport four adults comfortably, a crew cab is a better choice.

Key Takeaways

  • The Access Cab has two full front doors and two smaller rear doors that open backward, seating up to five people in a tight configuration.
  • Rear legroom is about 28 inches, making the back seat suitable mainly for children or occasional use by adults on short trips.
  • The rear seat folds up to reveal storage, which many owners prefer to use instead of carrying passengers.
  • The bed length on Access Cab models is typically 5 feet, shorter than crew cab versions, because the cab takes up more of the truck's overall length.
  • Engine options for 2016 include a 2.7-liter four-cylinder or a 3.5-liter V6, with fuel economy and towing capacity varying between them.

Engine choices and fuel economy

The 2016 Tacoma Access Cab came with two engine options. The base engine was a 2.7-liter four-cylinder producing 159 horsepower, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. This engine prioritizes fuel economy over power and is adequate for light towing and everyday driving.

The optional engine was a 3.5-liter V6 producing 278 horsepower, also paired with a five-speed automatic. The V6 delivers noticeably more power and can tow up to 6,400 pounds when properly equipped, compared to 3,500 pounds for the four-cylinder. Fuel economy drops with the V6 — expect roughly 18 to 20 miles per gallon combined, versus 20 to 22 with the four-cylinder. Real-world numbers depend on driving habits, terrain, and whether you're towing.

Bed length and cargo space

Access Cab models came with a 5-foot bed as standard, the shortest bed length available on the 2016 Tacoma lineup. This shorter bed is the trade-off for having a rear seat and backward-opening doors — the overall truck length stays manageable. A 5-foot bed holds a standard pallet or a moderate load of lumber, but it fills quickly with larger items.

If you need more cargo space, crew cab models offered a 5-foot bed as well, but the overall truck was longer. Double-cab models (which had no rear seat) came with either a 5-foot or 5.5-foot bed. When shopping used, confirm the bed length in the listing or with the seller, because it affects what you can haul.

Transmission and four-wheel drive options

All 2016 Tacoma Access Cab models used a five-speed automatic transmission. There was no manual transmission option that year. The transmission is known for reliability in the Tacoma line, though some owners report it can feel sluggish when merging on highways with the four-cylinder engine.

Four-wheel drive was optional on all trim levels. Two-wheel drive models are lighter and get better fuel economy, making them suitable if you mostly drive on paved roads. Four-wheel drive adds weight and cost but gives you traction in snow, mud, or off-road conditions. The four-wheel drive system on the 2016 Tacoma is part-time, meaning you manually engage it when needed rather than it being full-time automatic.

Trim levels and features

The 2016 Tacoma Access Cab was offered in several trim levels: SR, SR5, and TRD Sport. The SR was the base model with manual windows, a basic audio system, and minimal creature comforts. The SR5 added air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a better stereo. The TRD Sport included off-road-focused features like all-terrain tires, a locking rear differential, and sport-tuned suspension.

Higher trims also added features like a backup camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and upgraded interior materials. When looking at used 2016 Access Cabs, the trim level affects both the price and what you get in terms of comfort and technology. A TRD Sport will cost more but comes with features that might otherwise require aftermarket installation.

Common maintenance and known issues

The 2016 Tacoma is generally reliable, but there are a few things to watch for on the used market. Some owners reported issues with the paint peeling or fading prematurely, particularly on certain color options. This is cosmetic but worth noting if appearance matters to you.

The four-cylinder engine can develop carbon buildup over time, which some owners address with fuel system cleaning. The five-speed automatic transmission is solid, but servicing it regularly with Toyota-approved fluid helps avoid problems. Check the maintenance records when buying used — a truck that was serviced on schedule will likely have fewer surprises. Rust can develop on the undercarriage in areas with road salt, so inspect the frame and suspension components if the truck spent time in a snowy climate.

Comparing Access Cab to other body styles

The Access Cab sits between the Double Cab and the Crew Cab in terms of practicality. A Double Cab has no rear seat at all, giving you maximum bed length and cargo space. A Crew Cab has full four doors and a larger rear seat, making it the choice if you regularly carry passengers. The Access Cab is a compromise — it lets you seat five people but sacrifices bed length and rear comfort.

Your choice depends on how you plan to use the truck. If you haul cargo most of the time and rarely carry rear passengers, a Double Cab with a longer bed makes more sense. If you frequently transport a family or work crew, a Crew Cab is worth the extra length. The Access Cab works best for owners who need occasional rear seating but don't want to sacrifice too much cargo space.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an adult sit comfortably in the rear seat of an Access Cab for a long drive?

Not typically. The rear seat has about 28 inches of legroom, which is cramped for most adults on trips longer than an hour or so. It works fine for children or for short trips to town. If you regularly transport adult passengers, a crew cab is a better choice.

What's the difference between the 2.7-liter and 3.5-liter engines in terms of real-world performance?

The V6 feels noticeably quicker, especially when merging or accelerating on the highway. The four-cylinder is adequate for everyday driving but can feel sluggish under load. The V6 costs more upfront and uses more fuel, but gives you more towing capacity and power if you need it.

Is the 5-foot bed too short for most uses?

It depends on what you haul. A 5-foot bed holds a standard pallet, lumber up to 8 feet (with an overhang), and most household items. If you regularly haul full sheets of plywood or long materials, you'll find it limiting. For light to moderate cargo, it's workable.

How does the Access Cab hold up over time compared to other Tacoma body styles?

Reliability is similar across all 2016 Tacoma body styles — the engine, transmission, and frame are the same. The Access Cab's smaller rear doors and hinges may wear slightly faster if used frequently, but this is minor. Maintenance history matters far more than body style when predicting longevity.

Should I buy a 2016 Access Cab or look for a newer model year?

The 2016 is solid and parts are widely available. Newer models have updated technology and safety features, but they cost significantly more. If budget is your priority and you're comfortable with an older infotainment system, a well-maintained 2016 is a reasonable choice. Check the mileage and service records carefully.