Toyota Tacoma

Infobox Automobile
name=Toyota Tacoma


manufacturer = Toyota
NUMMI
Hino
production = 1995–present
assembly = Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico
Fremont, California, USA
Hamura, Japan
class = Compact pickup truck (1995-2004)
Mid-size pickup truck (2005-present)
layout = Front-engine, rear-wheel drive / Four-wheel drive
body_style = 2-door truck
4-door truck

The Toyota Tacoma is a compact pickup truck manufactured by the Toyota Motor Company since 1995. It is essentially the Toyota Hilux modified and rebadged for North America. The second-generation Tacoma was Motor Trend Magazine's Truck of the Year for 2005. Currently, it is America's best selling mid-size or compact-size pickup.Fact|date=July 2007

Infobox Automobile generation
name = First generation


production = 1995-2004
weight = (3155 lbs)
(3877 lbs)
engine = 2.4 L I4 Convert|142|hp|kW|0|abbr=on
2.7 L I4 Convert|150|hp|kW|0|abbr=on
3.4 L V6 Convert|190|hp|kW|0|abbr=on
related = Toyota Hilux
Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
Toyota 4Runner/Hilux Surf
Toyota Tundra
Toyota T100
fuel_capacity = Convert|57.2|L|usgal impgal|1
Convert|70|L|usgal impgal|1
transmission = 4-speed automatic
5-speed manual
wheelbase = 1995-2000 Regular Cab: Auto in|103.3|0
2001-04 Regular Cab: Auto in|104.3|0
Xtracab: Auto in|121.9|0
length = 1995-97 Regular Cab 2WD: Auto in|174.8|0
Xtracab 2WD: Auto in|193.3|0
1995-97 Regular Cab 4WD: Auto in|180.5|0
1995-97 Xtracab 4WD: Auto in|199.0|0
1998-2000 Regular Cab 4WD, 1998-2002 PreRunner Regular Cab 2WD: Auto in|183.8|0
1998-2002 Xtracab 4WD & PreRunner Xtracab: Auto in|202.3|0
1998-2002 Regular Cab 2WD: Auto in|184.5|0
1998-2002 Xtracab 2WD: Auto in|203.1|0
2003-04 Regular Cab 4WD: Auto in|184.4|0
2003-04 Xtracab V6 & Double Cab: Auto in|202.9|0
width = Auto in|66.5|0
2001-02 Crew Cab: Auto in|70.1|0
2003-04 Crew Cab: Auto in|70.3|0
height = 1995-97 Regular Cab 2WD: Auto in|61.0|0
1995-97 Xtracab 2WD: Auto in|61.4|0
1995-97 Regular Cab 4WD: Auto in|66.5|0
1995-97 Xtracab 4WD: Auto in|66.3|0
1998-2004 Xtracab 4WD & PreRunner Regular Cab: Auto in|67.5|0
1998-2004 Xtracab 4WD & 2001-04 PreRunner Regular Cab 2WD: Auto in|67.7|0
1998-2000 Xtracab Limited V6 4WD: Auto in|68.9|0
1998-2000 Regular Cab 2WD: Auto in|62.0|0
1998-2000 Xtracab V6 2WD: Auto in|62.2|0
1998-2000 PreRunner Xtracab 2WD: Auto in|67.1|0
2001-04 Regular Cab 2WD: Auto in|64.1|0
2001-04 Xtracab 2WD: Auto in|63.5|0
S-Runner Xtracab V6 2WD: Auto in|62.5|0
2003-04 S-Runner Xtracab V6 2WD: Auto in|62.5|0

First generation (1995–2004)

The Tacoma name was introduced in 1995, originating from the worldwide Hilux. The Hilux was sold in the United States until 1995 (simply as a "Toyota Truck" [ [http://www.fueleconomy.gov Fuel Economy ] ] ).

There were a total of three engines available for the Toyota Tacoma: the 2.4 L four cylinder rated at Convert|142|hp|kW|0|abbr=on and Auto ft.lbf|160|0 of torque, the 2.7 L four cylinder rated at Convert|150|hp|kW|0|abbr=on and Auto ft.lbf|177|0 of torque, and the 3.4 L six cylinder rated at Convert|190|hp|kW|0|abbr=on and Auto ft.lbf|220|0 of torque. The 2.4 L . The 2.4 L gave a highly useful Auto mpg|29 (hwy), the 2.7 L gave Auto mpg|26 (hwy), and the 3.4 L delivered Auto mpg|22 (hwy).

Two-wheel drive Tacomas had 5-stud wheel lug patterns. The 2.4 L and 3.4 L engines were available in this vehicle depending on options. Automatic and manual transmissions were available.

Four-wheel drive Tacomas had six-stud wheel lug patterns, which had been used on the prior pickups (pre-Tacoma trucks). The truck's frame is fully boxed until immediately after the front leaf spring mount bracket where is transitions into a c-frame section. The 3.4 V6's manual transmission was an R150F while the automatic transmission was an A340F (Asian code is 30-40LE). From 95-97 Single cab Tacomas had the option of a manual transmission with the 3.4 V6 engine. From 98 on, the single cabs only got a 2.7 or a 2.4 4-cyl from factory. TRD packages started in 98 (if the V6 engine was selected, you got a differential locker in the rear).

Prerunner models started in 98. They share the same front and rear suspension parts and geometry, frame, styling and engine options as the 4x4 Tacomas of this year range. Prerunner Tacomas also had the option of the TRD Off-Road package which (like the 4x4) got a rear differential locker if it was a V6 model (among other suspension variations). One downside is there was not option of a 5-speed transmission. The V6 Tacoma automatic transmissions were an A340E. Because of the similarities in the Prerunner and 4x4 models, some people have used stock 4x4 Tacoma parts on their Prerunner model to convert it to 4x4.

In its first couple years of production the Tacoma sold very well, attracting many young buyers. The first generation Tacoma underwent a total of two cosmetic facelifts: the first in 1998, and the second in 2001. The facelifts mainly entailed new headlights and grilles. Mechanical changes included a switch to distributorless ignitions (coil-on-plug) in 1997 and in 1998 longer rear leaf springs. All 4x4 models came with Toyota's Automatic Differential Disconnect (ADD) system after the 2000 model year.

The only extra feature in 2001 was a new crew cab (four door) model added to the lineup. The crew cab featured four doors, while the extended cabs still opened with two doors. The extended cab featured a convert|6|ft|m|0|sing=on bed while the crew cab featured a convert|5|ft|5|in|m|sing=on bed. Many customers were upset with small crew cab beds, but most competitors shared this shortcoming.

In 2001, along with the front facelift, Toyota had also unveiled an S-Runner trim package which included the 3.4 liter V6 engine. It came with convert|16|in|mm|sing=on alloy wheels, and a 5 speed manual transmission with Tokico Gas shocks. There were only 200 produced each month from 2001-2004. By 2003 the Tacoma had gained 16.5 percent sales from its previous years. The Tacoma's popularity only increased in the next few years. By 2004 it was ahead of the Nissan Frontier, and Dodge Dakota, but still 2.2 percent behind in sales to the Ford Ranger they also led the way agains fullsize trucks.

Infobox Automobile generation
name = Second generation


production = 2005-present
weight =(3550 lb)
(3950 lb)
engine = 2.7 L (159 hp) I4
4.0 L (236 hp) V6
related = Toyota Hilux
Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
Toyota 4Runner/Hilux Surf
Toyota Tundra
Toyota FJ Cruiser
fuel_capacity = Convert|79.9|L|usgal impgal|1
wheelbase = Regular Cab 4WD & PreRunner: Auto in|110.0|0
Access Cab: Auto in|127.8|0/Auto in|127.2|0
Double Cab Long Bed: Auto in|140.9|0
Regular Cab 2WD: Auto in|109.4|0
length = Regular Cab: Auto in|190.4|0
Access Cab: Auto in|208.1|0
Double Cab Long Bed: Auto in|221.3|0
width = 2WD Extended: Auto in|74.6|0
2WD Regular: Auto in|72.2|0
4WD: Auto in|74.7|0
X-Runner: Auto in|74.0|0
height = Extended Cab & 4WD Regular: Auto in|69.9|0
Double Cab: Auto in|70.1|0
Regular Cab 2WD: Auto in|65.7|0
2005-06 X-Runner: Auto in|65.2|0
2007-Present X-Runner: Auto in|72.2|0
transmission = 4-speed automatic
5-speed automatic
5-speed manual
6-speed manual

Second generation (2005–present)

At the 2004 Chicago Auto Show, Toyota unveiled a bigger and more powerful Tacoma. This new Tacoma was available in eighteen different configurations, that included three cab configurations, four transmissions, two engines, and two bed lengths. Toyota also introduced an X-Runner trim, which replaces the slow selling S-Runner trim from the previous generation. The X-Runner features a 4.0 liter V6 with a six speed manual transmission, Auto in|18|1ch alloy wheels, and lowered two inches from the factory and included an X-Brace suspension package. The Tacoma's all new 4.0 liter V6 (1GRFE) took the place of the original 3.4 liter V6. The new 4.0 liter V6 had many enhancements, such as a new 6500 pound tow rating, and a payload capacity of 1650 pounds. The 4.0 liter produces convert|236|hp and 266 foot-pounds of torque. The smaller, 4 cylinder alternative to the 4.0 in less expensive models is the rated at Convert|159|hp|kW|0|abbr=on and Auto ft.lbf|180|0. of torque. At 2.7 liters, it is much different than its predecessor 3RZ-FE, in that it has VVT-i and different build material. Toyota also included a Down-Hill Assist Control (DAC) and Hill-Side Assist Control (HAC), with models that were equipped with the optional Toyota Racing Development (TRD) packages. A locking rear differential, limited-slip differential were also some optional features. Every Tacoma was manufactured with a composite inner bed that includes a deck rail system with four tie down cleats, hook-pins, storage boxes, and a power outlet (models with TRD packages). The tie down cleats are rated to hold up to Auto lb|220|0. The 2006 model Tacoma was a bit different from the 2005 model. The 2006 model made some options standard. Minor changes have been made to the 2007 models such as new engine which runs on regular gasoline and delivers better fuel economy than the previous models, and the seating system was updated. Toyota also added 2 new interior colors for 2007 model year. 2008 models are carry ons from 2007. The second generation Tacomas are assembled in Tijuana, Mexico and Fremont, California while the plastic/composite beds are all built in Mexico.

In Canada, the Tacoma is in the 2009 model year, it had received a new 6-disc CD player, new steering wheel controls, and a VSC system. The 2009 Tacoma will be introduced in the United States in late 2008.

Aftermarket

The 2RZ-FE and 3RZ-FE both have a supercharger available through TRD (Toyota Racing Development). The supercharger is manufactured by Alpine Developments. This kit is rated at an increase of 50% power at 8 psi of boost. The most commonly seen is the TRD supercharger available for the 5VZ-FE V6, which is manufactured by Magnuson Products. This particular supercharger is rated to increase power from convert|190|hp|abbr=on to convert|251|hp|abbr=on.

The 2005 - 2008 4.0 litre (1GRFE) engine also has a supercharger available from URD ( [http://www.urdusa.com/product_info.php?cPath=1_2&products_id=126019804 Underdog Racing Development] ). It increases the RWHP from 209 to 305. That's convert|236|hp to approximately convert|366|hp. The OEM for this supercharger is [http://www.rotrex.com/ Rotrex] . This is the same OEM company that makes the supercharger for the 806 horsepower 4.7 litre Koenigsegg CCR which at one time held the world speed record.

Structural Integrity and Safety

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 rating of "good" in protecting impacts in a side collision. [cite web |url=http://thearticlewriter.com/autowriter/most-small-pickup-trucks-fail-side-impact-tests/ |title= Most Small Pickup Trucks Fail Side Impact Tests |date=2008-07-24 |accessdate=2008-08-03 |work=The Auto Writer] Beginning with the 2009 model year, the Tacoma will offer side protection as standard equipment. [cite web |url=http://www.kcra.com/2009-cars/16975537/detail.html |title= Most Small Pickups 'Dismal' In Crash Test -- Toyota Rates Best Among 5 Tested |date=2008-07-24 |accessdate=2008-08-03 |work=KCRA.com]

Toyota Racing Development

Since 1996 Toyota added a new Toyota Racing Development (TRD) off road package. The package includes off road tires, 16 inch alloy wheels, TRD shocks, a locking rear differential, and the TRD graphics. In 2003 Toyota introduced a TRD sport package on the Toyota Tundra full-size pickup. This package was not available until 2005 for the Tacoma. This package includes street performance tires, 17 inch alloy wheels, shocks, race inspired hood, and TRD sport graphics. It is also about 200 dollars more expensive than the original TRD off road package.

American special forces use

During Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom, multiple Toyota Tacomas have been observed in use by special forces units of the U.S. Army. Typically, they have been Double Cab models, with SR5 and TRD packages.

Despite the fact that the Hilux, which the Tacoma is based on, is extremely common in the Middle East, SF found it to be easier to purchase them from American dealerships, modify them appropriately, and ship them to their areas. The Tacoma and Hilux share the same body, but the chassis is significantly different in the Tacoma and believed to be much weaker. The gasoline engine used is significantly quieter than the diesel engines used in the HMMWV. These were modified by eliminating the factory radio, along with almost all exterior lights and door buzzers. The front headlights have been modified to work in IR, in order to work with night vision. The engines are unmodified, but the vehicles have been fitted with brush guards, Warn winches, and a rollbar with a machine gun mount. [ [http://www.brian894x4.com/MilitaryTacoma.html MilitaryTacoma ] ]

U.S sales

Tacoma sales in the U.S. have risen steadily in the past few years. By 2004 (calendar year) it lagged the perennial segment leader, the Ford Ranger, by just 2.2%; a year later it was leading by nearly 40% and in 2006, it had extended that lead to an impressive 93%. Toyota sells around 190,000 Tacomas annually. In 2005 Toyota Motor Corporation sold 189,987 Tacomas, better than any other compact pickup in its class. Tacoma sales make about 10 percent of Toyota Motor Corporations annual sales. From March 2006 to March 2007 Tacoma sales have steadily risen. In March 2006 Toyota sold 9,185 (4x2) Tacomas, in March 2007 Toyota sold 10,851 (4x2) Tacomas. Over the summer of 2007 Toyota broke records selling over 60,000 Tacomas in a 3 month period. Consumer reports show an increase in sales (up 7.6 percent from August 2006).

Monthly U.S. sales

References

External links

* [http://www.toyota.com/tacoma/ Toyota Tacoma official site]
* Tacoma assembly plant
* [http://www.tacomaworld.com Tacoma World Forums]
* [http://www.urdusa.com/product_info.php?cPath=1_2&products_id=126019804 URD Underdog Racing Development]
* [http://www.brian894x4.com/MilitaryTacoma.html Military Toyotas]