The Toyota Tacoma I Double Cab (facelift 2000) 2.7 represents a significant iteration of Toyota’s popular compact pickup truck, specifically tailored for the North American market. Introduced as part of a mid-cycle refresh, this version of the first-generation Tacoma (1995-2004) offered a unique blend of rugged capability, practicality, and a relatively spacious interior thanks to its Double Cab configuration. While the Tacoma was sold in other markets, the Double Cab variant was particularly important in the US, where demand for crew-cab pickups was steadily increasing. This model aimed to provide a versatile vehicle suitable for both work and family use, bridging the gap between traditional compact trucks and larger full-size options.
Toyota Tacoma I Double Cab (facelift 2000): A Detailed Overview
The 2000 facelift brought subtle but important changes to the Tacoma, including revised front-end styling, updated interior trim, and improvements to safety features. The 2.7-liter engine option, producing 182 horsepower, was a mainstay of the Tacoma lineup, offering a balance of fuel efficiency and adequate power for everyday driving and light-duty tasks. The availability of a four-wheel-drive system further enhanced its appeal to buyers seeking all-weather capability and off-road potential. The Double Cab configuration, with its four doors and five-passenger seating, distinguished this Tacoma from standard extended-cab models, making it a more practical choice for families or crews.
Engine & Performance
Powering the 2000 Toyota Tacoma I Double Cab 2.7 is the 3RZ-FE 2.7-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine delivers 182 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 240 Nm (177.01 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. While not a powerhouse, the 3RZ-FE is known for its reliability and durability. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, and utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system for efficient fuel delivery. The longitudinal engine layout contributes to a balanced weight distribution. The engine’s 9.5:1 compression ratio is a key factor in its performance characteristics. The 3RZ-FE’s power output translates to adequate performance for typical pickup truck duties, including hauling and towing, though it’s not designed for heavy-duty applications. The engine requires 5.4 liters (5.71 US qt) of engine oil and 8.2 liters (8.66 US qt) of coolant for optimal operation.
Design & Features
The 2000 Toyota Tacoma I Double Cab is a four-door pickup truck with a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The Double Cab configuration significantly increases interior space compared to the standard cab or Xtracab models, offering comfortable seating for five passengers. The truck’s exterior design is characterized by its relatively compact dimensions and utilitarian styling. The facelifted model features a revised front grille and headlights, giving it a more modern appearance. The interior, while functional, prioritizes durability over luxury. Features included standard air conditioning, a basic audio system, and cloth upholstery. Safety features for the time included front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, though anti-lock brakes were not standard on all models. The Tacoma’s 215 mm (8.46 in) of ground clearance provides reasonable off-road capability, and the four-wheel-drive system enhances traction in challenging conditions. 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
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma I Double Cab (facelift 2000) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 (182 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| 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) |
| Power | 182 Hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.6 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 |
| 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 |
| Max. weight | 1928 kg / 4250.51 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 (Back) 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 | 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 Toyota Tacoma I Double Cab (facelift 2000) 2.7 4WD Automatic remains a popular choice among enthusiasts and those seeking a reliable and capable pickup truck. Its combination of practicality, durability, and off-road potential has cemented its place as a significant vehicle in Toyota’s history and a benchmark in the compact pickup segment.
