The Toyota Tacoma I Single Cab (facelift 2000) 2.4 is a compact pickup truck produced by Toyota from 2000 to 2004. This iteration represents a mid-cycle refresh of the first-generation Tacoma, which originally debuted in 1995. While the Tacoma has become a mainstay in the North American market, known for its reliability and off-road capability, the first generation, including this facelifted model, established its reputation. This particular version, equipped with a 2.4-liter engine and four-wheel drive, offered a more economical and accessible entry point into the compact truck segment, appealing to buyers needing a practical and durable vehicle for work or light off-roading.
Toyota Tacoma I: A Focus on Utility
The 2000 facelift brought subtle but noticeable changes to the original Tacoma design, primarily focused on improving aesthetics and refining existing features. The Tacoma I Single Cab was positioned as a no-frills, work-oriented truck, differing significantly from the double cab models that catered to families. Its two-door configuration and limited seating emphasized practicality and cargo capacity over passenger comfort. The 2.4-liter engine option provided a balance between fuel efficiency and sufficient power for everyday tasks, making it a popular choice for those who didn’t require the larger, more powerful engines available in other Tacoma trims.
Engine & Performance
Powering the 2000 Toyota Tacoma I Single Cab 2.4 is the 2RZ-FE inline four-cylinder engine. This 2.4-liter (2392 cm3 or 145.97 cu. in.) gasoline 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 efficient operation. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 59.4 hp/l. Power is delivered to all four wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission, providing enhanced traction in various driving conditions. While not designed for high-speed performance, the 2RZ-FE offered adequate power for hauling moderate loads and navigating typical driving scenarios. The transverse engine layout was a common configuration for front-engine, rear-wheel-drive based vehicles like the Tacoma.
Design & Features
The 2000 Toyota Tacoma I Single Cab maintains the classic pickup truck silhouette. Its body-on-frame construction provides a robust and durable platform, capable of withstanding demanding use. The single-cab configuration features two doors and seating for two passengers. The truck bed offers ample cargo space for hauling materials, equipment, or recreational gear. Key features of this model include ventilated front disc brakes and drum brakes in the rear, providing adequate stopping power. Tire sizes varied, with options including 205/75 R15 and 235/55 R16, mounted on 15 or 16-inch wheel rims. The Tacoma’s ride height, or ground clearance, is 215 mm (8.46 in), allowing for moderate off-road capability. Safety features for the time were relatively basic, focusing on structural integrity and standard braking systems. The emphasis was on providing a reliable and functional work truck rather than a luxury vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma I Single Cab (facelift 2000) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 (142 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2000 year |
| End of production | 2004 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| 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 |
| Max. weight | 1928 kg / 4250.51 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 | 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 Single Cab (facelift 2000) 2.4 4WD Automatic represents a significant chapter in Toyota’s North American pickup truck history. Its blend of affordability, durability, and four-wheel-drive capability made it a popular choice for a wide range of buyers. While subsequent generations of the Tacoma have introduced more advanced features and technologies, the first generation remains a beloved and respected vehicle, known for its reliability and timeless design.
