The Toyota Tacoma I xTracab 2.7, produced between 1995 and 2000, represents the first generation of Toyota’s immensely popular compact pickup truck in North America. While Toyota had offered smaller trucks previously, the Tacoma was specifically designed to appeal to the growing North American market for versatile, reliable, and relatively affordable trucks. The xTracab designation refers to the extended cab configuration, offering limited rear seating and storage space, differentiating it from the standard cab models. This generation Tacoma quickly gained a reputation for its durability and off-road capability, establishing a strong foothold for Toyota in the competitive US pickup truck segment.
Toyota Tacoma I xTracab 2.7: A First Generation Icon
The first-generation Tacoma was a significant departure from the Hilux models it partially replaced in some markets. It was engineered with a focus on North American preferences, offering a more comfortable ride and a wider range of features than its predecessors. The xTracab model, in particular, provided a practical solution for those needing occasional rear passenger space without the full size and cost of a crew cab. The Tacoma’s success laid the groundwork for subsequent generations, which have consistently ranked among the best-selling mid-size trucks in the United States.
Engine & Performance
Powering the Tacoma I xTracab 2.7 is a 2.7-liter (164.4 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated the 3RZ-FE. This engine produces 182 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 240 Newton-meters (177.01 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4000 rpm. While not a powerhouse, the 3RZ-FE is known for its reliability and longevity. The engine features a naturally aspirated intake, multi-port fuel injection, and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration contributes to a reasonable power-to-weight ratio and acceptable fuel economy for a vehicle of its type. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the front of the vehicle, and power is delivered to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. The Tacoma’s rear-wheel-drive configuration provides a traditional truck driving experience, while its relatively compact size and manageable power output make it a capable and user-friendly vehicle.
Design & Features
The Toyota Tacoma I xTracab is a two-door pickup truck with seating for five passengers. The xTracab configuration features small, jump-style seats in the rear, primarily intended for occasional use. The truck’s body-on-frame construction provides a robust and durable platform, suitable for both on-road and off-road driving. The exterior design is functional and utilitarian, reflecting the truck’s intended purpose. Available tire sizes include 205/75 R15 and 235/55 R16, mounted on 15 or 16-inch wheel rims. Ground clearance is a respectable 215 mm (8.46 inches), enhancing its off-road capability. Safety features for the era were relatively basic, consisting primarily of seatbelts and a robust chassis. The Tacoma’s appeal lay in its practicality, reliability, and ability to handle a variety of tasks, from daily commuting to light-duty hauling and off-road adventures. The interior, while not luxurious, was designed for durability and ease of use, with straightforward controls and durable materials.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Tacoma |
| Generation | Tacoma I xTracab |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 (182 Hp) |
| 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) |
| Power | 182 Hp @ 4800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.6 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 |
| Cylinder Bore | 95 mm / 3.74 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 95 mm / 3.74 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| 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 |
| Max. weight | 1928 kg / 4250.51 lbs |
| Fuel tank capacity | 57 l / 15.06 US gal | 12.54 UK gal |
| Length | 5055 mm / 199.02 in |
| Width | 1689 mm / 66.5 in |
| Height | 1560 mm / 61.42 in |
| Wheelbase | 3096 mm / 121.89 in |
| Front track | 1311 mm / 51.61 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1440 mm / 56.69 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 215 mm / 8.46 in |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual 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 2.7 remains a popular choice among truck enthusiasts and those seeking a reliable and capable used vehicle. Its simple design, durable construction, and readily available parts contribute to its enduring appeal. The first-generation Tacoma established Toyota as a major player in the North American pickup truck market, paving the way for the continued success of the Tacoma nameplate.
