The Toyota Tacoma I Single Cab (facelift 2000) 3.4 V6 4WD represents a significant iteration of Toyota’s popular compact pickup truck, designed primarily for the North American market. Introduced as part of a mid-cycle refresh, this version of the first-generation Tacoma (1995-2004) aimed to enhance the vehicle’s appeal with updated styling, improved features, and a robust powertrain. The Tacoma quickly gained a reputation for reliability and durability, becoming a favorite among both recreational users and those requiring a dependable work truck. This particular model, with its 3.4-liter V6 engine and four-wheel-drive capability, offered a compelling blend of performance and practicality, cementing the Tacoma’s position as a leading contender in the competitive compact pickup segment.
Toyota Tacoma I Single Cab (facelift 2000): Overview
The first-generation Toyota Tacoma, launched in 1995, was a complete redesign of the Hilux compact pickup, tailored specifically for the North American market. The 2000 facelift brought subtle but noticeable changes to the exterior, including a revised grille, headlights, and taillights. More importantly, it refined the interior and addressed some of the earlier model’s shortcomings. The Single Cab configuration, with its two-door layout and seating for two, was geared towards utility and affordability, making it a popular choice for individuals and businesses needing a no-frills, capable truck. The 3.4-liter V6 engine option provided a substantial power upgrade over the base four-cylinder, enhancing towing capacity and overall performance. The 4WD system further broadened its appeal, enabling confident operation in a variety of terrains and weather conditions.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the 2000 Toyota Tacoma I Single Cab 4WD lies the 5VZ-FE 3.4-liter V6 engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant produces 190 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 298 Nm (219.79 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3600 rpm. The engine features a robust cast-iron block and aluminum cylinder heads, contributing to its renowned durability. Multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout, coupled with a five-speed manual transmission, provides responsive acceleration and confident highway cruising. The weight-to-power ratio of 6.6 kg/Hp (152.4 Hp/tonne) and weight-to-torque ratio of 4.2 kg/Nm (239 Nm/tonne) demonstrate a respectable balance between power and weight. The 3.4L engine displacement (206.14 cu. in.) provides a good compromise between fuel economy and usable power for both on and off-road applications.
Design & Features
The 2000 Toyota Tacoma I Single Cab maintains the classic pickup truck silhouette, characterized by its boxy cab and separate bed. The Single Cab configuration prioritizes cargo space and utility over passenger comfort. The exterior styling, updated with the 2000 facelift, features a more modern front fascia and refined detailing. The interior, while basic, is functional and durable, designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. Key features include a comfortable driver’s seat, straightforward instrumentation, and ample storage compartments. Safety features for the era were relatively limited, typically including seatbelts and a basic anti-lock braking system (ABS) on some trims. The Tacoma’s robust frame and suspension contribute to its excellent ride quality and off-road capability. The available tire sizes of 205/75 R15 and 235/55 R16, mounted on 15 or 16-inch wheel rims, provide adequate grip and stability for various driving conditions. The 215 mm (8.46 in) of ground clearance further enhances its off-road prowess.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma I Single Cab (facelift 2000) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.4 V6 (190 Hp) 4WD |
| Start of production | 2000 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 190 Hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 56.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 298 Nm @ 3600 rpm / 219.79 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 5VZ-FE |
| Engine displacement | 3378 cm3 / 206.14 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 93.4 mm / 3.68 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 82.04 mm / 3.23 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1247 kg / 2749.16 lbs |
| Max. weight | 1928 kg / 4250.51 lbs |
| Max load | 681 kg / 1501.35 lbs |
| Fuel tank capacity | 57 l / 15.06 US gal | 12.54 UK gal |
| 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. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Tires size | 205/75 R15; 235/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 16 |
The Toyota Tacoma I Single Cab (facelift 2000) 3.4 V6 4WD remains a highly sought-after vehicle among enthusiasts and those seeking a reliable and capable pickup truck. Its combination of durability, performance, and practicality has ensured its enduring popularity, and it continues to be a common sight on roads and trails across North America. The 2000 facelift refined an already successful formula, solidifying the Tacoma’s reputation as a benchmark in the compact pickup segment.
