2004 Toyota Tacoma

1995 - 2004 Toyota Tacoma Highlights
Toyota's sixth-generation pickup finally got a proper name of its own--Tacoma. The all-new model has a driver-side airbag, and featured aggressive new styling, both inside and out. Propelling the new Tacoma were three engines two 4-cylinders and a V6. The new engines included a 142-horsepower dual overhead cam 2.4-liter, a 150-horsepower dual-overhead-cam 2.7-liter, and a 190-horsepower dual-overhead cam 3.4-liter V6. The Tacoma also rode on a redesigned chassis and suspension and came with rack-and-pinion steering in place of the previous recirculating ball system. Also, 4-wheel ABS was now optional on all Tacoma models. The 4WD models were visually differentiated from 2WD models by a distinct grille treatment and an elevated chassis.
Year to Year Changes
1996 Toyota Tacoma: For '96, Toyota's Tacoma pickup is provided with a new off-road package that includes a locking rear differential. The new unit is available only on regular-cab 4WD models with a manual transmission. On 2WD models it includes a rear differential locking system, 31-inch tires on alloy wheels, and a tachometer. On 4WD models, Toyota charges a little more, but adds bucket seats, a center console, and 4WDemand, the more sophisticated of Toyota's two 4-wheel-drive systems.
1997 Toyota Tacoma: For 1997, 2WD models get a new grille and flush headlights. Also, the base 2.4-liter engine gains a new ignition system and a more sophisticated sequential multipoint fuel-injection system.
1998 Toyota Tacoma: Tacoma finally gets a passenger-side airbag, and the SR5 models get a new name--Limited.
1999 Toyota Tacoma: Seatbelt pretensioners topped the short list of changes for '99.
2000 Toyota Tacoma: Intermittent windshield wipers became standard, and models with ABS now had daytime running lights. Four-wheel-drive trucks got numerically higher axle ratios for quicker takeoffs.
2001 Toyota Tacoma: New for 2001 were 4-door Double Cabs with four front-opening doors and a 60/40 folding rear bench seat. All models got a restyled front end with a raised hood and prominent grille. Also added for 2001 was a new S-Runner model--a manual-transmission V6 PreRunner Xtracab with stiffer springs, premium shock absorbers, color-keyed exterior, and special interior appointments.
2002 Toyota Tacoma: There were no significant changes for 2002.
2003 Toyota Tacoma: Antilock brakes were made standard on all models for 2003.
2004 Toyota Tacoma: The Tacoma loses its optional flare-fender StepSide cargo box in 2004.

Pros: Acceleration (V6) / Reliability
Cons: Price / Engine noise / Ride / Step-in height (4WD)

Estimated Repair Costs: A/C Compressor $1,315 Alternator $360 Automatic Transmission or Transaxle $1,457 Brakes $190 Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing $915 Exhaust System $242 Radiator $520 Shocks and/or Struts $210 Timing Chain or Belt $200

Powertrain Options:
Standard powerplants included 2.4-liter 2.7-liter 4-cylinders 3.4-liter V6. The smaller 4-cylinder is standard on 2WD models, while the 4WD dels offer the 2.7-liter unit. The new V6 is available for both configurations. The 2.4-liter dual-overhead-cam 4-cylinder offers 142 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 160 pound-feet of torque at 4000 rpm. The larger 4-cylinder boosts output to 150 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 177 pound-feet of torque at 4000 rpm. Finally, the Tacoma's V6 delivers a lusty 190 horsepower at 4800 rpm and 220 pound-feet of torque at 3600 rpm.

This is the first time I have owned a Toyota, however I have owned Hondas and Nissans for years. The Toyota has been very similar to the Hondas and the Nissans...very reliable, well engineered and easy to work on. I have not yet had to perform and repairs to it, and I don't expect to, outside of routine maintenance. I would highly recommend the Tacoma to anyone interested in a mid-sized truck.