The Toyota Tacoma I Single Cab (facelift 2000) 2.7 represents a significant iteration of Toyota’s popular compact pickup truck, primarily sold in North America. Introduced as a mid-cycle refresh, this version of the first-generation Tacoma built upon the foundation laid in 1995, offering updated styling, improved features, and a reliable powertrain. Positioned in the competitive compact pickup segment alongside the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, and Nissan Frontier, the Tacoma distinguished itself with Toyota’s reputation for durability and resale value. The Single Cab configuration catered to buyers prioritizing utility and affordability, often used for work or recreational purposes. This model year saw continued refinement of the 2.7-liter engine, aiming for a balance of power and fuel efficiency.
Toyota Tacoma I Single Cab (facelift 2000): A Detailed Overview
The facelifted 2000 Toyota Tacoma Single Cab was a key model in establishing the Tacoma’s dominance in the North American pickup truck market. While not initially as popular as the extended cab versions, the Single Cab offered a more accessible price point and a focused, utilitarian experience. The 2000 refresh brought subtle but noticeable changes to the exterior, including revised headlights and grille, contributing to a more modern aesthetic. Internally, improvements were made to enhance comfort and convenience, though the Single Cab remained largely focused on providing a practical and durable work vehicle. The 2.7-liter engine, while not the most powerful in the segment, proved to be exceptionally reliable and capable for everyday tasks.
Engine & Performance
Powering the 2000 Toyota Tacoma Single Cab is the 3RZ-FE 2.7-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 182 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 240 Newton-meters (177.01 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, and utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system. While power per liter is rated at 67.6 hp/l, the engine’s strength lies in its durability and low-end torque, making it well-suited for hauling and light off-road use. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis. The power is delivered to the rear wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. This drivetrain configuration provides a straightforward and reliable power delivery system. The Tacoma’s rear-wheel-drive setup contributes to its relatively simple mechanical design and lower maintenance costs.
Design & Features
The 2000 Toyota Tacoma Single Cab is a two-door, two-seat pickup truck with a traditional body-on-frame construction. Its design prioritizes functionality and ruggedness. The Single Cab configuration features a relatively short wheelbase of 2624 mm (103.31 in) and an overall length of 4686 mm (184.49 in). The truck’s width is 1689 mm (66.5 in) and height is 1570 mm (61.81 in). Ground clearance is a respectable 215 mm (8.46 in), enhancing its off-road capability. The interior is spartan but functional, focusing on providing a durable and easy-to-clean environment. Safety features for the time included ventilated disc brakes in the front and drum brakes in the rear. Standard tire sizes were 205/75 R15 and 235/55 R16, mounted on 15 or 16-inch wheel rims. The Tacoma’s design emphasized practicality and durability over luxury, making it a popular choice for those needing a reliable work truck.
Technical Specifications
| General Information | |
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma I Single Cab (facelift 2000) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 (182 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2000 year |
| End of production | 2004 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Performance Specs | |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 182 Hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 4000 rpm / 177.01 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine Specs | |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 3RZ-FE |
| Engine displacement | 2694 cm3 / 164.4 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 95 mm / 3.74 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 95 mm / 3.74 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l / 5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt |
| Coolant | 8.2 l / 8.66 US qt | 7.21 UK qt |
| Space, Volume and Weights | |
| Max. weight | 1928 kg / 4250.51 lbs |
| Fuel tank capacity | 57 l / 15.06 US gal | 12.54 UK gal |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 4686 mm / 184.49 in |
| Width | 1689 mm / 66.5 in |
| Height | 1570 mm / 61.81 in |
| Wheelbase | 2624 mm / 103.31 in |
| Front track | 1395 mm / 54.92 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1415 mm / 55.71 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 215 mm / 8.46 in |
| Drivetrain, Brakes and Suspension Specs | |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Tires size | 205/75 R15; 235/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 16 |
The 2000 Toyota Tacoma Single Cab 2.7 Automatic remains a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and affordable pickup truck. Its simple design, durable engine, and Toyota’s reputation for quality have ensured its longevity and continued demand in the used vehicle market. While lacking the refinement of more modern pickups, the Tacoma offers a practical and capable solution for a variety of tasks, solidifying its place as a significant vehicle in Toyota’s history.
