This guide is designed to provide some details about the changes that the Tacoma has undergone since it's inception in 1995.

But first, a little history... Toyota entered the light truck market in 1964 with the introduction of the Toyota "Stout" truck. (Pictured at right)

Through the years, the face of Toyota's truck series changed dramatically.
1995.5:

In 1995-1/2 (February, 1995) the Tacoma was introduced to continue Toyota's legendary line of popular light trucks. This would be the 6th generation of Toyota trucks. The Tacoma would be offered in both 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive models with two body styles: regular cab and Xtracab. Three engines were offered: 2WD models received a 2.4L 4-cylinder with 142 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 160 lb./ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm, while 4WD models were fitted with a 2.7-liter, 16-valve, twin-cam 4-cylinder engine producing 150 horsepower at 4,800 RPM and 177 lb./ft. of torque at 4,000 RPM. Both models would be available with an optional 3.4-liter, 24-valve, twin-cam V6 engine which produces 190 horsepower at 4,800 RPM and 220 lb./ft. of torque at 3,600 RPM. All three engines were available with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission.

1997:
The next change to the Tacoma line didn't come until 1997 when the 2WD models changed over to halogen headlights with replaceable bulbs. Toyota also began offering the rear locking differential to all 4x4 models in 1997.

1998:
The 4WD models received the same front facia update that the 2WD models received in 1997. All models received new front bumper designs. Passenger-side airbags were also added as well as some minor interior changes such as cup holder location and 12-volt power outlets. 4X4 standard cabs were no longer available with a 3.4L V6 engine.

Also in 1998, the PreRunner Xtracab model was added to the lineup. It was offered with either the 2.7L 4-cylinder or the 3.4L V6 engine, and a 4-speed automatic transmission.

1999:
In 1999, the PreRunner was first offered in a regular cab model, equipped with the 2.7L 4-cylinder and 4-speed automatic transmission.

Toyota also added new safety features including new seat belts with pretensioners and the passenger-side airbag disable switch.

2000:

For the model year 2000, Toyota offered new exterior colors and introduced the stepside bed as an option on regular and extended cab 4x2, PreRunner and 4x4 Tacoma models. The standard break-away mirrors were upgraded to solid, non-break-away units.

All models received daytime running lights as standard on models equipped with ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System).

In mid 2000, the front facia of the 2WD model was changed to match the 4X4 model: fenders, grill, and bumper.

2001:
2001 was a big year of changes for the Tacoma line. All models received a completely new front facia that included a vertical grille and raised hood, new multi-reflector headlamps, and jeweled tail lamps. Four new exterior colors were also offered at this time.

Toyota introduced the all-new S-runner line, with color-keyed exterior, 16" wheels with low profile tires, 3.4L V6 engine, tuned exhaust, sporty lowered suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars, and S-Runner badging. Optional color-keyed TRD body kit, TRD supercharger, and StepSide bed were available. The S-runner was offered only as an Xtracab, and only in Red or Black color options.

Also introduced was the 4-door version of the Tacoma, called the Double Cab. It was offered as a PreRunner model with the 2.7L or 3.4L V6 engines or as a 4x4 with the 3.4L V6. All Double Cabs received a 4-speed automatic transmission.

2002:
By 2002, the Tacoma was available in 17 different configurations and accounted for nearly 10% of all Toyota sales in the United States. There were no significant changes in 2002, except for availability of options on some models. S-Runners received color-keyed badging.

2003:
Anti-lock brake systems were made standard on all models in 2003. Also, a Child Restraint System lower anchor was made standard for the front passenger seat on Regular and Xtracabs, and for the rear outboard seats on the Double Cabs.

2004:
In 2004, Toyota began offering the Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) feature and Brake Assist to optimize braking pressure at each wheel for greater control. Also introduced for the 4x4 models was an all-new traction system called VCS or Vehicle Stability Control. This system helps keep the vehicle going on its intended course by detecting front-wheel slide and rear-wheel slide during cornering and attempting to control either condition with throttle intervention and/or by braking individual wheels.

2005:

Toyota completely redesigned the Tacoma lineup for 2005 including a new frame, body, engines, and transmissions. Most notably, the truck grew in size to almost the same size as the current model Tundra pickup. Both 2WD and 4WD models continued to be offered in Regular, Access Cab, and Double Cab configurations. Available powerplants were a 164HP 2.7L inline 4-cylinder and a 245HP V6. Both engines feature Toyota's VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence) technology. Another first for Toyota (and the industry) was the introduction of a composite bed. Toyota claimed their design is stronger and more durable than a steel bed and 10% lighter. 4- and 5- speed automatic transmissions and 5- and 6- speed manual transmissions were also options.

Two TRD models were offered. First, a TRD Sport model with a limited-slip rear differential, 17-inch wheels, and a non-functional hood scoop. The second was a TRD Off-Road model with off-road tuned shocks, 16-inch wheels, and an electronic locking rear differential.

The S-Runner model was also replaced by the X-Runner model, complete with the 245HP V6, 17-inch sport wheels, and a reinforced "x-brace" frame to aid in handling.