The Toyota Tacoma I xTracab (facelift 2000) 2.7 4WD represents a significant iteration of Toyota’s popular compact pickup truck, primarily sold in North America. Introduced as a mid-cycle refresh of the first-generation Tacoma, this model built upon the foundation laid in 1995, offering updated styling, improved features, and a continued focus on reliability and off-road capability. The Tacoma quickly gained a reputation for being a durable and versatile vehicle, appealing to both recreational users and those needing a dependable work truck. This particular version, equipped with the 2.7-liter inline-four engine and four-wheel drive, occupied a key segment of the market, offering a balance between affordability and functionality.
Toyota Tacoma I xTracab (facelift 2000): Overview
The first-generation Toyota Tacoma, launched in 1995, was a complete redesign of the Hilux compact pickup that had been sold in the US under various names for decades. The xTracab configuration, featuring an extended cab with small rear seats, provided increased passenger space and versatility compared to the standard cab models. The 2000 facelift brought cosmetic updates to the exterior, including a revised grille, headlights, and bumpers, along with minor interior refinements. This model year continued to emphasize the Tacoma’s core strengths: rugged construction, a capable four-wheel-drive system, and Toyota’s renowned build quality. While not initially a market leader in terms of outright power, the Tacoma’s longevity and resale value quickly made it a popular choice among truck buyers.
Engine & Performance
The 2000 Toyota Tacoma I xTracab 2.7 4WD is powered by the 3RZ-FE 2.7-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 150 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 240 Newton-meters (177.01 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. While not a high-performance engine, the 3RZ-FE is known for its durability and reliability. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain and multi-port fuel injection. Power is delivered to all four wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. The weight-to-power ratio of 10.5 kg/Hp (95.3 Hp/tonne) and weight-to-torque ratio of 6.6 kg/Nm (152.5 Nm/tonne) reflect the truck’s modest power output relative to its weight. Fuel economy is rated at approximately 12.4 liters per 100 kilometers (19 US mpg) in urban driving and 11.2 liters per 100 kilometers (21 US mpg) in extra-urban conditions. The longitudinal engine layout contributes to a balanced weight distribution, enhancing handling and stability.
Design & Features
The 2000 Toyota Tacoma I xTracab is a two-door pickup truck with seating for five passengers. The xTracab configuration provides limited rear seating, best suited for occasional use. The truck’s body-on-frame construction contributes to its ruggedness and durability. The exterior styling of the facelifted model features a more modern appearance compared to the original 1995 design. Key features include a standard four-wheel-drive system with selectable 4×4 modes, ventilated front disc brakes, and drum brakes on the rear axle. The Tacoma’s relatively short wheelbase (3096 mm / 121.89 in.) and high ground clearance (215 mm / 8.46 in.) enhance its off-road capability. The interior is functional and utilitarian, with durable materials and a focus on practicality. Safety features for the time included standard seatbelts and optional anti-lock brakes. The Tacoma’s design prioritized functionality and durability over luxury, making it a popular choice for those needing a reliable and capable work or recreational vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma I xTracab (facelift 2000) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 (150 Hp) 4WD |
| Start of production | 2000 year |
| End of production | 2004 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.5 kg/Hp (95.3 Hp/tonne) |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm (152.5 Nm/tonne) |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 55.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 4000 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 3RZ-FE |
| Engine displacement | 2694 cm3 (164.4 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| 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 capacity | 8.2 l (8.66 US qt | 7.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1574 kg (3470.08 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2315 kg (5103.7 lbs.) |
| Max load | 741 kg (1633.63 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Length | 5138 mm (202.28 in.) |
| Width | 1689 mm (66.5 in.) |
| Height | 1715 mm (67.52 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3096 mm (121.89 in.) |
| Front track | 1461 mm (57.52 in.) |
| Rear track | 1455 mm (57.28 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 xTracab (facelift 2000) 2.7 4WD remains a popular choice among enthusiasts and those seeking a reliable and capable pickup truck. Its combination of durability, off-road capability, and Toyota’s reputation for quality have ensured its continued presence on roads and trails for years to come.
