The Toyota Tacoma I xTracab (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 was originally introduced in 1995. While the Tacoma has become a mainstay in the North American market, known for its reliability and off-road capability, the xTracab configuration and 2.4-liter engine were particularly significant in offering a more affordable and fuel-efficient entry point into the compact truck segment. The facelift brought subtle styling updates and refinements to the original design, solidifying the Tacoma’s position as a popular choice for both personal and commercial use.
Toyota Tacoma I xTracab (facelift 2000): A Detailed Overview
The Tacoma I xTracab (facelift 2000) 2.4 4WD Automatic was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile and durable pickup truck. The xTracab designation refers to the extended cab configuration, offering limited rear seating and additional storage space behind the front seats. This model was positioned below the Double Cab variant, providing a balance between practicality and affordability. The 2.4-liter engine, while not the most powerful option available in the Tacoma lineup, offered reasonable performance and fuel economy for everyday driving. The four-wheel-drive system enhanced its capability in various weather conditions and on unpaved surfaces, making it a popular choice in regions with challenging terrain.
Engine & Performance
Powering the 2000-2004 Toyota Tacoma xTracab 2.4 is the 2RZ-FE 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. 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 efficient operation. While not a performance-oriented engine, the 2RZ-FE provides adequate power for typical pickup truck duties, such as hauling moderate loads and navigating city streets. The engine’s transverse mounting within the front engine bay contributes to a compact overall design. The four-speed automatic transmission delivers smooth gear changes and enhances drivability. The 4WD system allows the driver to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive modes, providing enhanced traction when needed. Engine oil capacity is 5.5 liters (5.81 US qt / 4.84 UK qt) and coolant capacity is 7.8 liters (8.24 US qt / 6.86 UK qt).
Design & Features
The Toyota Tacoma I xTracab (facelift 2000) features a traditional pickup truck body style with a two-door configuration and a small rear seat area accessible via the xTracab doors. The facelifted model incorporated minor cosmetic changes, including revised front grille and headlight designs. The interior was functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. Standard features typically included air conditioning, a basic audio system, and cloth upholstery. Safety features for the era were relatively basic, consisting of front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, and seatbelts. The truck’s ride height (ground clearance) is 215 mm (8.46 in), providing reasonable off-road capability. The vehicle’s dimensions are 5138 mm (202.28 in) in length, 1689 mm (66.5 in) in width, and 1715 mm (67.52 in) in height. The wheelbase measures 3096 mm (121.89 in). Tire sizes varied, with options including 205/75 R15 and 235/55 R16, mounted on 15 or 16-inch wheel rims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma I xTracab (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 | 5 |
| 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 | 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 (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 xTracab (facelift 2000) 2.4 4WD Automatic represents a practical and reliable option in the compact pickup truck segment. Its combination of affordability, durability, and four-wheel-drive capability made it a popular choice for a wide range of buyers. While not the most powerful or luxurious truck on the market, it offered a compelling value proposition and cemented the Tacoma’s reputation as a dependable workhorse.
