The Toyota Tacoma I Double Cab (facelift 2000) 2.4, a four-wheel-drive pickup truck, represents a significant iteration in Toyota’s popular Tacoma line. Introduced as part of a mid-cycle refresh, this model, produced from 2000 to 2004, aimed to enhance the Tacoma’s appeal with updated styling and continued reliability. While the Tacoma was primarily marketed in North America, it also found a niche following in other markets where a compact-to-mid-size pickup with robust capabilities was desired. This generation Tacoma established a strong reputation for off-road prowess and durability, characteristics that continue to define the model today. The 2.4-liter engine option provided a balance between fuel economy and sufficient power for everyday use and light-duty tasks.
Toyota Tacoma I Double Cab (facelift 2000): Overview
The first-generation Toyota Tacoma, launched in 1995, quickly gained popularity as a versatile and dependable pickup truck. The 2000 facelift brought subtle but noticeable improvements to the exterior and interior, solidifying its position in the competitive compact pickup segment. The Double Cab configuration, introduced with this generation, offered increased passenger space, making it a more practical option for families and those needing to transport more than two occupants regularly. The 2.4-liter engine, while not the most powerful option available in the Tacoma lineup, provided a cost-effective and reasonably efficient choice for buyers prioritizing practicality over outright performance.
Engine & Performance
The 2000 Toyota Tacoma I Double Cab 2.4 4WD is powered by the 2RZ-FE inline four-cylinder engine, displacing 2.4 liters (2392 cm3 or 145.97 cu. in.). This naturally aspirated engine produces 142 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 217 Nm (160.05 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4400 rpm. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively smooth operation and decent fuel efficiency for its class. The power-to-weight ratio is 113.9 Hp/tonne, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 174 Nm/tonne. The engine is transversely mounted in the chassis. Power is delivered to all four wheels through a five-speed manual transmission, providing the driver with full control over gear selection. While not a performance-oriented engine, the 2RZ-FE is known for its reliability and longevity, making it a popular choice for owners seeking a dependable workhorse. The engine requires 5.5 liters (5.81 US qt, 4.84 UK qt) of engine oil and 7.8 liters (8.24 US qt, 6.86 UK qt) of coolant.
Design & Features
The 2000 Toyota Tacoma I Double Cab is a four-door pickup truck designed to accommodate five passengers. Its body-on-frame construction provides a robust and durable platform, well-suited for both on-road and off-road driving. The Double Cab configuration significantly expands the rear passenger space compared to the standard cab models, making it a more comfortable option for families or those frequently carrying passengers. The exterior styling of the facelifted model features subtle refinements, including updated headlights and a revised grille. The interior, while functional, prioritizes durability and practicality over luxury. Standard features typically included air conditioning, a basic audio system, and power steering. Safety features for the era were relatively basic, consisting primarily of seatbelts and a driver’s side airbag. The Tacoma’s relatively compact size makes it maneuverable in urban environments, while its four-wheel-drive system and ample ground clearance (215 mm or 8.46 in.) enable it to tackle moderate off-road terrain. The vehicle’s dimensions are 5138 mm (202.28 in.) in length, 1781 mm (70.12 in.) in width, and 1715 mm (67.52 in.) in height, with a wheelbase of 3096 mm (121.89 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma I Double Cab (facelift 2000) |
| Type | 2.4 (142 Hp) 4WD |
| Start of production | 2000 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp |
| Hp/tonne | 113.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm |
| Nm/tonne | 174 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 142 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 59.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 217 Nm @ 4400 rpm / 160.05 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2RZ-FE |
| Engine displacement | 2392 cm3 / 145.97 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 | 5.5 l / 5.81 US qt / 4.84 UK qt |
| Coolant | 7.8 l / 8.24 US qt / 6.86 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1247 kg / 2749.16 lbs |
| Max. weight | 1928 kg / 4250.51 lbs |
| Max load | 681 kg / 1501.35 lbs |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l / 18.49 US gal / 15.4 UK gal |
| Length | 5138 mm / 202.28 in |
| Width | 1781 mm / 70.12 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 |


