The Toyota Tacoma I Single Cab (facelift 2000) represents a significant iteration of Toyota’s popular compact pickup truck, designed primarily for the North American market. Introduced as 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 continued focus on reliability and off-road capability. The Single Cab configuration catered to buyers prioritizing utility and affordability, often used for work or recreational purposes. This model occupied a crucial space in the burgeoning compact truck segment, competing with offerings from Ford, Chevrolet, and Nissan.
Toyota Tacoma I Single Cab (facelift 2000): A Detailed Overview
The facelifted 2000 Tacoma Single Cab maintained the core strengths of the original design while incorporating subtle but effective improvements. It continued to be a body-on-frame vehicle, known for its robust construction and durability. The Single Cab configuration, with its two doors and two-seat layout, offered a practical and economical option for those not requiring the space of an extended or double cab. The 2000 refresh brought changes to the front fascia, including a revised grille and headlights, giving the truck a more modern appearance. The interior also saw minor updates, focusing on improved materials and ergonomics.
Engine & Performance
Powering the 2000 Toyota Tacoma I Single Cab was the 5VZ-FE 3.4-liter V6 engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant produced 190 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 298 Nm (219.79 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3600 rpm. The engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain and multi-port fuel injection, contributing to its smooth operation and reasonable fuel efficiency for its class. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout and rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a traditional truck driving experience. A four-speed automatic transmission was standard, offering convenient operation and adequate performance for everyday driving and light-duty hauling. The power-to-weight ratio of 56.2 hp per liter was respectable for the era. While not a performance-oriented truck, the 3.4L V6 provided sufficient power for most tasks expected of a compact pickup.
Design & Features
The 2000 Toyota Tacoma I Single Cab retained the classic pickup truck silhouette. Its body-on-frame construction provided a solid and durable foundation. The Single Cab configuration featured a relatively short wheelbase of 2624 mm (103.31 in) and an overall length of 4686 mm (184.49 in), making it relatively maneuverable in urban environments. The truck’s width was 1689 mm (66.5 in) and height 1570 mm (61.81 in). Ground clearance was a useful 215 mm (8.46 in), enhancing its off-road capability.
Features were relatively basic compared to modern trucks, reflecting the vehicle’s target market and era. Standard equipment typically included air conditioning, a basic audio system, and cloth upholstery. Safety features were limited by the standards of the time, but generally included front ventilated disc brakes and rear drum brakes. Tire sizes varied, with options including 205/75 R15 and 235/55 R16, mounted on 15 or 16-inch wheels. The Tacoma’s design prioritized functionality and durability over luxury, making it a popular choice for those needing a reliable and capable work truck or weekend adventurer.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma I Single Cab (facelift 2000) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.4 V6 (190 Hp) 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 | 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 |
| 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 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| 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) remains a popular choice among enthusiasts and those seeking a reliable and affordable pickup truck. Its reputation for durability, combined with the capable 3.4L V6 engine, ensures its continued presence on roads and trails. While lacking the advanced technology of modern trucks, the 2000 Tacoma offers a simple, robust, and dependable transportation solution.
