Toyota Tacoma

| Kevin Hunter (1991, 1992) | Yusuke Fukushima (second facelift: 1998) }} | 2-door regular cab | 2-door extended cab | 4-door crew cab }} | Toyota Hilux (N140/N150/N160/N170) | Toyota 4Runner/Hilux Surf (N180) | Toyota T100 }} | Gasoline: | 2.4 L 2RZ-FE I4 | 2.7 L 3RZ-FE I4 | 3.4 L 5VZ-FE V6 }} | 4-speed A340 automatic | 5-speed manual }} | Regular Cab: | Xtracab/Double Cab: }} | 1995–97 Regular Cab 2WD: | | Xtracab 2WD: | 1995–97 Regular Cab 4WD: | 1995–97 Xtracab 4WD: | 1998–2000 Regular Cab 4WD, 1998–2002 PreRunner Regular Cab 2WD: | 1998–2002 Xtracab 4WD & PreRunner Xtracab: | 1998–2002 Regular Cab 2WD: | 1998–2002 Xtracab 2WD: | 2003–04 Regular Cab 4WD: | 2003–04 Xtracab V6 & Double Cab: }} --> | | Between wheel well: | 2001–02 Crew Cab: | 2003–04 Crew Cab: }} | 2WD: | 4WD: }} | 2WD: | 4WD: }} }} The Tacoma was introduced in the US in February 1995 (with a market launch in March 1995) as a replacement for the Toyota Truck (which was the name used for the Hilux in the North American market since 1984). When comparing with the Hilux, the Tacoma receives engineering with greater priority on ride quality, handling, comfort, and safety over ruggedness and payload capacity. The design intends to better suit the needs of the US and Canadian market, where pickup trucks are used as personal vehicles rather than for commercial, agricultural, and off-road purposes. Development Development began in 1989, following the launch of the fifth-generation Toyota Truck in late 1988 and concluded in 1994. Design work was done at Calty Design Research in California from 1990 to 1992, when Kevin Hunter's exterior design proposal was chosen in the autumn of 1991 and in final form, frozen for production in 1992. Patents for the production design were filed in Japan in April 1993 and October 28, 1993, in the United States. Technical Three engines were available for the Tacoma: ;Notes: 3.4 L V6 Two-wheel drive (2WD) Tacomas (excluding PreRunner models) had five-stud wheel-lug patterns and either the 2.4- or 3.4-liter engine. Four-wheel drive (4WD) and PreRunner Tacomas had six-stud wheel-lug patterns and were available with either the 2.7-L or 3.4-L engine. Initially, the 2.4 L was limited to the 2WD models (both regular and Xtracab), while the 2.7-liter the standard engine for 4WD models, and the 3.4-liter V6, shared with the larger T100 truck, From 1997 on, the 3.4 L V6 was dropped as an option for the regular cab models, which were available only with a 2.4-L or a 2.7-L four-cylinder engine. An aftermarket Toyota Racing Development (TRD) supercharger kit was available for the 3.4-liter V6, raising output to and . The V6 supercharger kit was specified for model years 1997 and later, as the earlier engine control units (ECUs) had limitations. A kit to add a 7th fuel injector was available, including a replacement ECU, boosting performance further to and . In addition, TRD supercharger kits were available for the 4-cylinder engines (2.4 L and 2.7 L) as well. A five-speed manual transmission was standard for all models initially, with a four-speed automatic transmission available as an option except for the 4WD V6 regular cab. The 3.4 L V6 was paired with the R150F manual transmission or the A340F (4WD) or A340E (2WD) Aisin automatic transmission; the A340F code is 30-40LE. The first-generation Tacoma has a fully-boxed frame (meaning the main frame rails have a closed rectangular cross-section) until immediately after the rear leaf spring mounting bracket, where the frame transitions into a C-shaped cross-section. The TRD Off-Road package was introduced in 1998. This package added a locking rear differential and was only available to PreRunner and four-wheel drive models that were equipped with the 3.4-L V6. Anti-lock brakes were made standard across the Tacoma line for the 2003 model year. A StepSide bed was added as an option for MY2000. Variants At its introduction as a model year 1995, Tacoma 4WD and 2WD models could be distinguished externally by the front grilles. The 4WD model had two heavy chrome bars flanking a trapezoidal opening, tapering toward the top, while the 2WD model had thinner bars (optionally chrome) with a trapezoidal shape tapering toward the bottom. Both the regular cab and extended Xtracab share the same bed, which has an interior length of ; the wheelbase and overall length of the Xtracab is extended by approximately compared to the regular cab. In October 2000, along with the front facelift, Toyota also unveiled the S-Runner trim package for the 2WD Xtracab that was available exclusively with the 3.4-liter V6 engine coupled to a five-speed manual transmission. The final drive ratio is 3.15:1. Visually, the S-Runner carried a monochrome finish, with a grille and other trim pieces colored to match the exterior in either Black Sand Pearl or Radiant Red. The overall height is reduced by approximately through the use of low-profile P235/55R16 tires on alloy wheels; additional suspension tuning features include Tokico gas shocks and front and rear anti-sway bars. Only 800 were produced each month from September 2000 to August 2004. Sales and recalls In 2008, Toyota proactively announced a 15-year, unlimited-mileage corrosion warranty for 1995–2000 model years due to inadequate rustproofing and frame corrosion issues affecting over 800,000 Tacomas. Toyota will either repair the frame or buy back the truck for 1.5 times its KBB retail value. This was later extended to include 2001–2004 model years, but in these cases when a frame was found to be rusty to the point of perforation, the frame is replaced with a new one instead of a buy back. It is suspected that inadequate drainage in the fully boxed frame may have trapped moisture, leading to corrosion. The second-generation Tacoma moved to a frame with open C-section rails instead. == Second generation (N220/N240/N250/N260/N270; 2004) ==

| United States: Fremont, California (NUMMI, 2005–2010); San Antonio, Texas (TMMTX, 2010–2015) | Mexico: Tijuana (TMMBC) }} | Shigeya Hattori, Hideo Karikomi (2001, 2002) | Akira Yamaguchi, Jinichi Sato (facelift: 2010) }} | 2-door regular cab | 4-door extended cab | 4-door crew cab }} | Toyota 4Runner/Hilux Surf (N210) | Toyota FJ Cruiser }} | Gasoline: | 2.7 L 2TR-FE I4 | 4.0 L 1GR-FE V6 }} | (2TR-FE) | (1GR-FE) }} | 4-speed A340 automatic | 5-speed automatic | 5-speed manual | 6-speed manual }} | Regular Cab 2WD: | Regular Cab 4WD & PreRunner: | Access Cab: / | Double Cab Long Bed: }} | Regular Cab: | Access Cab: | Double Cab Short Bed: | Double Cab Long Bed: }} | 2WD Extended: | 2WD Regular: | 4WD: | X-Runner: }} | Extended Cab & 4WD Regular: | Double Cab: | Regular Cab 2WD: | 2005–06 X-Runner: | 2007–15 X-Runner: }} }} In 2000, Toyota began development of the second generation Tacoma under chief engineer Chikuo Kubota. The majority of development work was handled by Hino in Japan. Designers Shigeya Hattori and Hideo Karikomi of Hino won the internal design competition in 2001. Final designs were frozen for production in 2002 and patents filed on July 3, 2003, with test mules being tested from early 2003. Prototypes were built later in 2003, with development ending in the second quarter of 2004. On February 4, 2004, at the Chicago Auto Show, Toyota unveiled a bigger and more powerful Tacoma. Launched on October 18, 2004, as a 2005 model, this new Tacoma was available in eighteen different combinations of three cab configurations, four transmissions, two engines, and two bed lengths. Updates The 2006 model Tacoma had only minor changes from the 2005 model, with some options now standard. Toyota added two new interior colors for the 2007 model year; 2008 models carried over. A minor facelift came for 2009, including a slightly revised grille on some models, new LED taillamps, and on the X-Runner, TRD off-road and TRD Sport models includes a smoked headlamp trim. Auxiliary audio input now comes standard. The Access/Double Cab trucks have two new ceiling mounted speakers and an available backup monitor. Four new exterior colors are also added to the Tacoma. Safety features were added, and the mechanical limited-slip differential was no longer available. TRD off-road models continue to come equipped with a locking rear differential. The 2012 model year refresh featured a restyled front bumper, headlights, grille, hood, new interior and a shark fin antenna for the SiriusXM satellite radio. The 2013 model year comes with a touch screen audio system and removes the shark fin antenna and SiriusXM radio capability unless the optional Entune package is installed. 2014 models came with a new SR trim and for 2015 models the regular cab model was discontinued. In November 2016, Toyota USA settled a class action suit over frame rust, agreeing to inspect and if necessary replace rusted frames on 2005–2010 model year Tacomas, 2007–2008 MY Tundras, and 2005–2008 MY Sequoias in the US and its territories. Technical The three cab configurations consist of regular cab, access cab, and double cab. The transmissions come in 4-speed automatic, 5-speed automatic, 5-speed manual, and 6-speed manual. The Double Cab model is available with either the short bed, , or the long bed, ; other models exclusively use the long bed. The TRD Sport package sold in two levels. The first had a color-matched grille, color-matched front/rear bumpers/door handles/mirrors, and hood with nonfunctional scoop, Bilstein shocks/struts, stainless steel exhaust tip, and aluminum 17-in wheels with 265/65R17 tires. The second level also added a towing package (oil and transmission coolers, fan clutch) and heavy-duty high output alternator and battery. The 2005–08 model years came with a mechanical limited-slip differential. The 2009–15 model years have an open differential with a brake-assisted "automatic limited slip" rear differential, similar to a VSC system. TRD Pro The TRD Pro package was offered for 2015 models. Based on the TRD Off Road, the Pro package added a 2" front lift with Bilstein 2.5-inch front shocks and 2-inch rear shocks with remote reservoirs for extra wheel travel, BFGoodrich all-terrain tires on 16-inch black and silver bead-lock-style wheels, and TRD cat-back exhaust system. Cosmetic upgrades included the scooped Sport hood, black badges, blackout lighting elements, a TRD Pro matte-black grille with TOYOTA lettering, and various TRD-badged interior parts. About 1200 TRD Pro Tacomas were made. Ironman edition In 2008, an "Ironman" edition was released, named after Ivan "Ironman" Stewart. The engine output was increased to and with the addition of the TRD Supercharger and Magnaflow exhaust. X-Runner The Toyota X-Runner was a limited production sport model. Although it utilizes the standard 4.0L and 6-speed manual from other Tacomas, the X-runner uses lowered double-wishbone suspension, Bilstein shocks and frame x-bracing. The X-Runner is only available in three colors per year, and only five colors total. For the 2005 to 2008 model years, the X-Runner was available in Speedway Blue, Radiant Red and Black Sand Pearl. 2009 exchanged Radiant Red for Barcelona Red Metallic and Black Sand Pearl for Black. For the 2012 model year facelift, Speedway Blue became Nautical Blue Metallic and then Blue Ribbon Metallic for 2014/2015. The X-Runner was discontinued in the mainland US after the 2013 model year. The X-Runner was last offered in Canada for the 2014 model year and in Hawaii (USA) for the 2014/2015 model years. Production numbers are unknown but it is believed roughly 3,000 X-runners were made each model year. Production The second generation Tacomas were assembled in Tijuana, Mexico and Fremont, California while the plastic/composite beds were all built in Mexico. After the bankruptcy of GM, GM ended its joint venture with Toyota. Toyota, needing additional production volume at its Texas and Mississippi plants, ended Corolla and Tacoma production at the Fremont plant. In 2010 U.S. production was moved to Toyota's Texas plant in San Antonio alongside the Tundra. This brought a total of approximately 1,000 new jobs to San Antonio. Safety and structural integrity The Tacoma comes standard with anti-lock brakes, brake assist, and electronic brakeforce distribution. For 2008, a rollover sensor was added which would deploy the side curtain airbags in the event of rollover in Tacomas equipped with the optional side airbags. Beginning with the 2009 model year, all Tacomas feature Toyota's Star Safety System which added Vehicle Stability Control and traction control. Front row side torso airbags and side curtain airbags for both rows also become standard as well as active head restraints. Given the smaller size of pickup trucks in the Tacoma's category, crash testing for these sized trucks lags with how well most full size trucks perform. However, in an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) test of the Tacoma and other small trucks, only the side airbag equipped Tacoma received the highest overall rating of "Good" in the side impact test. The Tacoma also is rated "Good" in the frontal offset crash test. In 2009 with the active head restraints the Tacoma is given the IIHS's Top Safety Pick award. == Third generation (N240/N260/N300/N310/N320/N330; 2015) ==

| Mexico: Apaseo el Grande (TMMGT, 2020–2023); Tijuana (TMMBC) | United States: San Antonio, Texas (TMMTX, 2015–2021) }} | 4-door extended cab | 4-door crew cab }} | Gasoline: | 2.7 L 2TR-FE I4 | 3.5 L 2GR-FKS V6 }} | (2TR-FE) | (2GR-FKS) }} | 5-speed manual (R156, 2016–2017 2.7 L) | 6-speed automatic (AC60E/F) | 6-speed manual (RC62F) }} | Access Cab: | Double Cab, Short Bed: | Double Cab, Long Bed: }} | Access Cab: | Double Cab, Short Bed: | Double Cab, Long Bed: }} }} The new Tacoma was officially unveiled at the January 2015 North American International Auto Show, with sales in the United States beginning on September 10, 2015. Dimensionally and mechanically, the third generation Tacoma is similar to the preceding generation. While the four-cylinder models retained their N240/260 series codes, the V6 variants were reassigned to the new N300 series. Styling The truck features a revised exterior design inspired by the 2014 model year 4Runner SUV and Tundra pickup. Changes include a larger grille, new projector-beam headlamps, and a redesigned tailgate and bed with an integrated spoiler and debossed Tacoma logo. The N300 Tacoma is available in Access Cab and Double Cab configurations, offering long or short bed sizes. The Regular Cab model was discontinued for the new generation. The Access Cab comes with a single bed option measuring , while the Double Cab has a standard bed length of , with the bed available as an option. Toyota improved sound insulation with an acoustic windshield, better insulated doors, and additional weather stripping to reduce road and wind noise. Dual climate control was introduced for the first time in the Tacoma. Unlike the second-generation models, the 2016 and 2017 Tacoma steering wheel controls had reduced functionality, limiting convenience when browsing phone contacts or selecting songs. The steering wheel D-pad controls were no longer linked to the Entune system for browsing and selecting contacts or scrolling through music lists. Instead, drivers had to rely on voice controls or use the center console display's capacitive touchscreen. These limitations were removed starting with the 2018 model year. 2020 facelift In the 2020 model year, the Tacoma received a facelift, which included exterior updates. Inside, new technologies were introduced, including wired Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa capability. The SR5 model and higher trims featured a power-adjustable driver's seat, while the Tacoma Limited Double Cab offered a new Panoramic View Monitor providing a 360-degree bird's-eye view of the truck's surroundings. Technical Toyota offered a 2.7-liter 2TR-FE I4 engine paired with a 5-speed manual (MY2016-17) or 6-speed automatic transmission, and a 3.5-liter 2GR-FKS V6 engine paired with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. The 3.5-liter V6 can run on a simulated Atkinson cycle using VVT-iW, and feature Toyota's D-4S system which allows it to switch from port injection to direct injection based on driving conditions. ;Notes Based on the SAE J2807 tow guidelines the Tacoma can tow up to with the added tow package. Trims The truck is available in 6 trim levels: base SR, mid-level SR5, TRD Off-Road, TRD Sport, Limited, and range-topping TRD Pro. The TRD Off-Road trim models feature an all-new terrain select mode which allows the driver to choose between different types of terrain such as: loose rock, mud, and sand. Toyota also announced a new Crawl mode that will allow the driver to steer the truck in tough terrain while the truck manages braking and acceleration by itself. In addition to this the truck also features a moonroof, keyless entry, Qi Wireless phone charging capability, easy lower tailgate, blind-spot monitoring system, backup camera (standard) and a mounted GoPro holder (standard). Toyota also introduced a TRD Pro version in late 2016 for the 2017 model year, which comes with FOX-patented Internal Bypass shocks, TRD Pro catback exhaust, TRD Pro skid plate, Rigid Industries LED fog lights, and heritage inspired 'TOYOTA' grille. The 2017 model year TRD Pro was only available in the double cab short bed configuration, with either a manual or automatic gearbox in Barcelona Red Metallic, Super White, or Cement. Black leather with red accents and stitching is the only available interior option. For the 2018 model year TRD Pro, Midnight Black Metallic and Cavalry Blue are new available exterior colors, with Barcelona Red Metallic and Cement discontinued. In 2021, for the 2022 model year, the 'Trail' special edition was introduced in Army Green, with Lunar Rock color following in 2022. Heritage-inspired bronze color wheels and grille pay homage to earlier 4WD Toyota pickups. Production The Tacoma's transition to its third generation took place while the segment was growing. In 2014, the San Antonio plant built 105,796 Tacomas and the Baja plant built 71,399 for a total of 177,195. In 2015, the San Antonio plant built 110,911 and Baja built 82,328 for a total of 193,239 built. In 2016, 191,673 Tacomas were sold in the US and Canada (along with 115,489 Tundras also built in San Antonio) and, with the mid size segment up overall, the San Antonio plant was running costlier extra Saturday shifts to keep up with demand, running at 125 percent of projected plant capacity. The 2016 and 2017 model year double-cab short-bed Tacomas were made in Tijuana (VINs starting in 3) and all other configurations were made in San Antonio (VINs starting in 5). In 2016, Toyota USA announced it intended to increase 2018 production at the Tijuana plant from about 100,000 to 160,000. Gallery Safety The 2022 Tacoma was tested by the IIHS: == Fourth generation (N400; 2023) ==

| Gasoline: | 2.4 L T24A-FTS turbo I4 | Gasoline hybrid: | 2.4 L T24A-FTS turbo I4 }} | | (hybrid, combined system) }} | 6-speed manual (RC60F) | 8-speed automatic (AL80E/F) }} }} The fourth-generation Toyota Tacoma was revealed on May 19, 2023. It is built on Toyota's TNGA-F global body-on-frame vehicle platform, shared with the larger Toyota Tundra (XK70). Toyota considers the TRD Pro and Trailhunter to be the halo model of the line. The TRD Pro trim level includes IsoDynamic seats for the driver and front passenger which control motion through a series of four adjustable shock absorbers, Fox Factory racing shocks, and is taller and wider than the SR5. By eliminating the doors, Toyota could avoid the significant expense of engineering the doors to pass side-impact crash testing. The XtraCab body will only be available with the SR, SR5, and TRD PreRunner trim levels and will only use the longer bed with a leaf-sprung rear axle. ;Notes All Tacomas are equipped with an automatic limited-slip differential for the rear axle. Updates In 2024, for 2025 model year, a new "Mudbath" color was available only for the TRD Pro trim. Safety The 2024 model year Tacoma crew-cab configuration was awarded "Top Safety Pick" by IIHS, but it did not receive the highest award as it has yet to be evaluated in the updated moderate overlap front test. == Toyota Racing Development ==

In 1998, Toyota added a new Toyota Racing Development (TRD) off-road package. The package includes off-road tires, 16-inch alloy wheels, TRD dampers, a locking rear differential and the TRD graphics. TRD supercharger Toyota Racing Development offered a TRD supercharger for the FJ Cruiser and Tacoma equipped with 4.0-liter V6 engine, available through Toyota dealerships. This supercharger was co-developed with Magnuson Superchargers. When installed by a professional dealer, it would not void any warranties on a vehicle. The supercharger increases the Tacoma's power output to from the original , and the torque output to and is now out of production. The TRD supercharger is compatible on all 2005 through 2015 model year Tacoma trucks, and 2007 through 2009 model year FJ Cruiser SUV. This supercharger system features Eaton roots-type rotating components in a one-piece integral manifold, iridium spark plugs, and a five-rib serpentine drive belt system. It produces about of boost pressure. The supercharger, when installed by an authorized Scion or Toyota dealer, has the same warranty as powertrain, five years or , or the balance of the new car warranty, whichever is greater. When not installed by an authorized dealer, the supercharger is covered by a 12-month, parts-only warranty. The manufacturer's suggested retail price of the TRD supercharger is $4500, not including installation. The TRD supercharger program was discontinued for all vehicles, including Tacoma, as of June 2015 due to the expense of development. Back to the Future Tacoma Concept On October 21, 2015, Toyota and Universal Pictures celebrated the 30th anniversary of Back to the Future (BTTF) with a Tacoma Concept that was inspired by the original Toyota Truck that Toyota created for the original film. In the film, the protagonist (Marty McFly) is gifted a black Toyota (Hilux) Pickup SR5 XtraCab 4×4 when he returns to 1985. The Hilux has been modified with extra lights, tubular bumpers, and aftermarket wheels and tires; the popularity of the film has led to numerous recreations of the original concept. The original concept from 1985 was destroyed in a crash, and the studio recreated it for the sequels; after filming was complete, most of the modifications were stripped and the truck was sold to a private owner. For the 30th anniversary concept, a 2016 Tacoma 4WD was modified to resemble the 1985 original, using the same features and black color paint trim, KC HiLite driving lamps (modified with LED lighting), modified headlights and taillights (matching the 1985 version), the Toyota badging to the truck's tailgate, D-4S fuel injection, and the 1985-inspired mudflaps. The only difference between the 1985 original and the 2016 concept is the tires: Goodyear was featured in the 1985 film, while BF Goodrich is used on the concept. The concept also did not have a solid front axle like the original 1985 Pickup. Toyota notes that this is a one-off concept as there are no plans to offer it as a package or level trim. The 2016 Tacoma BTTF concept is featured in the launch campaign for the Mirai hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, which includes some of the original actors from the film. The concept was developed by Toyota's marketing arm, with assistance from KMA Promotion. == Sales ==

Many Tacoma vehicles were used by the US armed forces during the Iraq War and Operation Enduring Freedom. Typically, these were double-cab versions with SR5 or TRD trim. Although the Hilux, on which the Tacoma is based, is very common in the Middle East, the US military purchased Tacomas from American dealers, modified them accordingly, and sent them to Iraq. The Tacoma and Hilux share the same body, but the Tacoma's suspension differs significantly from the Hilux and is considered much weaker. Its gasoline engine runs much smoother than the diesel engine of the HMMWV (Hummer). The standard radio and almost all exterior lighting were removed from these acquired civilian vehicles. Instead, the vehicles were equipped with infrared spotlights so they could be used with night vision devices. Engines remained unchanged, but the vehicles were fitted with mud flaps, winches, and roll bars for machine guns. == Motorsport ==

At CORR, Toyota provided a vehicle for the Pro Lite class called the “Toyota Tacoma.” In 1998, the team of Johnny Greaves and Jeff Kincaid won 19 out of 20 races and became the overall champion. In 1998, in the Pikes Peak Hill Climb Unlimited class, a vehicle designed for Rod Millen and named “Toyota Tacoma” won the overall championship. == See also ==