The Toyota Tacoma I xTracab 2.4 (142 Hp) 4WD, produced between 1995 and 2000, represents the first generation of Toyota’s immensely popular compact pickup truck. Introduced as a replacement for the Hilux in the North American market, the Tacoma was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a smaller, more maneuverable, and fuel-efficient alternative to full-size trucks. The xTracab configuration, denoting an extended cab, offered limited rear seating and storage, enhancing the Tacoma’s versatility. This generation established the Tacoma’s reputation for reliability, durability, and off-road capability, laying the foundation for its continued success in the US market.
Toyota Tacoma I xTracab: A Compact Pickup Pioneer
The first-generation Tacoma was a significant departure from the boxy designs of earlier compact trucks. Toyota aimed for a more modern and aerodynamic aesthetic, while still maintaining the rugged functionality expected of a pickup. The xTracab model specifically targeted buyers needing occasional rear passenger space or a secure area for cargo, bridging the gap between standard cab and crew cab configurations. The 2.4-liter engine option provided a balance between affordability and performance, making the Tacoma accessible to a wider range of customers. It quickly gained a loyal following, becoming known for its ability to withstand demanding conditions and maintain its value over time.
Engine & Performance
The Tacoma I xTracab 2.4 (142 Hp) 4WD is powered by 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. The power-to-weight ratio of 113.9 Hp/tonne and torque-to-weight ratio of 174 Nm/tonne provide adequate performance for everyday driving and light-duty hauling. The engine’s transverse mounting within the front engine compartment was a common layout for compact pickups of the era. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, delivering power to all four wheels via a 4×4 drivetrain. The 5.5-liter (5.81 US qt) engine oil capacity and 7.8-liter (8.24 US qt) coolant capacity are typical for an engine of this displacement and configuration.
Design & Features
The Toyota Tacoma I xTracab is a two-door pickup truck with seating for five passengers. Its body-on-frame construction provides a robust platform for both on-road and off-road use. The xTracab configuration features a small rear seat area accessible via side-facing jump seats, and a small storage compartment behind the seats. The truck’s exterior design incorporates rounded edges and a relatively streamlined profile for a pickup of its time. Standard features included ventilated front disc brakes and drum brakes in the rear. Tire sizes varied, with options including 205/75 R15 and 235/55 R16, mounted on 15 or 16-inch wheel rims. Ground clearance is a respectable 215 mm (8.46 in), enhancing its off-road capability. Safety features were relatively basic by modern standards, reflecting the era in which it was produced. The focus was on providing a durable and functional vehicle rather than advanced safety technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma I xTracab |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 (142 Hp) 4WD |
| Start of production | 1995 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp |
| Hp/tonne | 113.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm |
| Nm/tonne | 174 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 142 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 59.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 217 Nm @ 4400 rpm |
| Torque (lb.-ft.) | 160.05 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2RZ-FE |
| Engine displacement | 2392 cm3 |
| Engine displacement (cu. in.) | 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 |
| Engine oil capacity (US qt) | 5.81 US qt |
| Engine oil capacity (UK qt) | 4.84 UK qt |
| Coolant | 7.8 l |
| Coolant (US qt) | 8.24 US qt |
| Coolant (UK qt) | 6.86 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1247 kg |
| Kerb Weight (lbs) | 2749.16 lbs |
| Max. weight | 1928 kg |
| Max. weight (lbs) | 4250.51 lbs |
| Max load | 681 kg |
| Max load (lbs) | 1501.35 lbs |
| Fuel tank capacity | 57 l |
| Fuel tank capacity (US gal) | 15.06 US gal |
| Fuel tank capacity (UK gal) | 12.54 UK gal |
| Length | 5055 mm |
| Length (in) | 199.02 in |
| Width | 1689 mm |
| Width (in) | 66.5 in |
| Height | 1560 mm |
| Height (in) | 61.42 in |
| Wheelbase | 3096 mm |
| Wheelbase (in) | 121.89 in |
| Front track | 1311 mm |
| Front track (in) | 51.61 in |
| Rear track | 1440 mm |
| Rear track (in) | 56.69 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 215 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance) (in) | 8.46 in |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Type of gearbox | manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Tires size | 205/75 R15; 235/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 16 |
