The Toyota Tacoma I xTracab (facelift 2000) 2.7 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 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 the facelifted 2000 model, established its reputation. The xTracab designation refers to the extended cab configuration, offering limited rear seating and additional storage space compared to the standard cab models. This model was primarily aimed at buyers needing a versatile vehicle for both work and recreational purposes, offering a blend of practicality and durability.
Toyota Tacoma I xTracab (facelift 2000): Overview
The 2000 facelift brought subtle but noticeable changes to the Tacoma’s exterior, including revised headlights, a new grille, and updated bumpers. These changes aimed to modernize the truck’s appearance and enhance its appeal. The 2.7-liter engine option provided a balance between fuel efficiency and adequate power for everyday tasks and light-duty hauling. The availability of a four-wheel-drive system further enhanced the Tacoma’s versatility, making it suitable for a wider range of terrains and conditions. The Tacoma competed with other compact pickups like the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S-10, and Nissan Frontier.
Engine & Performance
The Toyota Tacoma I xTracab (facelift 2000) 2.7 was equipped with the 3RZ-FE 2.7-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produced 150 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 240 Nm (177.01 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain and multi-port fuel injection. Power was delivered to all four wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout contributed to a balanced weight distribution. The weight-to-power ratio of 10.6 kg/Hp (94.5 Hp/tonne) and weight-to-torque ratio of 6.6 kg/Nm (151.1 Nm/tonne) indicated a reasonable level of performance for its class. Fuel economy was rated at 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) in urban driving and 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) in extra-urban conditions. While not exceptionally powerful, the 2.7-liter engine provided sufficient power for typical pickup truck duties, prioritizing reliability and fuel efficiency.
Design & Features
The 2000 Toyota Tacoma I xTracab maintained the classic pickup truck silhouette, characterized by a two-door configuration and a separate cargo bed. The xTracab version featured a small rear seat area accessible through rear-hinged doors, offering limited passenger space but increased versatility. The truck’s body-on-frame construction provided a robust and durable platform. The interior was functional and utilitarian, designed for practicality rather than luxury. Standard features 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. The Tacoma’s ride height (ground clearance) of 275 mm (10.83 in.) provided good off-road capability. The vehicle’s dimensions – a length of 5138 mm (202.28 in.), a width of 1689 mm (66.5 in.), and a height of 1715 mm (67.52 in.) – positioned it within the compact pickup truck segment. The curb weight of 1588 kg (3500.94 lbs.) and a maximum weight of 2315 kg (5103.7 lbs.) allowed for a maximum load capacity of 727 kg (1602.76 lbs.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma I xTracab (facelift 2000) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 (150 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 consumption (economy) – urban | 13.8 l/100 km (17 US mpg, 20.5 UK mpg, 7.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp (94.5 Hp/tonne) |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm (151.1 Nm/tonne) |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 55.7 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 |
| 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) |
| Kerb Weight | 1588 kg (3500.94 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2315 kg (5103.7 lbs.) |
| Max load | 727 kg (1602.76 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) | 275 mm (10.83 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) 2.7 4WD Automatic remains a popular choice among enthusiasts and those seeking a reliable and capable pickup truck. Its blend of practicality, durability, and off-road capability has cemented its place in automotive history, and it continues to be a sought-after vehicle in the used car market.
