Toyota Tacoma 2005+

kurt123

Has anyone seen any photos of the 2005 Tacoma's? Toyota is only showing it's X-runner model of next year's model,(not part of the "fast and furious" generation-so I have no interest in a souped up lowrider!). Will they continue the Prerunner models?

Kirstie_H

Is this model the one you've seen already?

Actually, nevermind -- that looks like the X Runner you're talking about.

chorton

I would assume the prerunner will be around for a long time. The success has been HUGE!!! I think it will be on a 4runner type frame. I can't wait to drive one...anyone else?

spleck

I'm particularly curious about engines, and whether we'll get a manual transmission in the double cab V6.

-It looks like the V6 is the same 4.0L from the 4Runner, but if the X-Runner is the premium truck, then its probably unlikely that we'll get a 4.7L V8 from the 4Runner too.
-I think the old 3.4L is getting a little tired, we might see the 3.3L that's spreading across the line replace it. The 3.3L is more efficient, and as currently tuned, more powerful, but at higher RPM. The fact the 3.4L is the base Tundra engine though may mean it will also stay for the Tacoma.
-I'm sure Toyota will keep a 4 cyl for the single/xtra cab base models, but with the bigger size I'm not sure the 2.4L can handle it, and the 2.7L is so inefficient.
-Sales of the double cabs are so much better that we may see a limited lineup for the single and xtra cabs, rather than the other way around.

Any thoughts?

emt

Looks like the 4.0 is a given. I think some sort of V-8 power should be offered. Manual transmissions should be offered for the entire line up, not just some models, including V-8's if offered. Some of us just like to shift. Plus I like the control I feel I have in the winter with a stick. As for the double cab, please offer the 6 foot bed like Nissan does. I still use my truck as a truck and would like the double cab, but need the 6 foot bed. How about a diesel? I know they have them in other markets. Just my 2 cents.

enolagaia

If you go to the Detroit News site (detnews.com) and drill down in their 'Auto Insider' section, you'll find a photo of a black non-X-Runner '05 prototype. Most folks assume it's either a PreRunner or a 4X4.

enolagaia

Toyota's giving out zero usable info on the '05 lineup (other than the premium X-Runner). Some of the issues still outstanding include:

- Base model configuration (will Toyota follow Nissan and ditch the regular cab?)
- Projected vehicle weight (a big clue to engines, etc.)
- Engine range. Sure, the X-Runner gets the 4.0, but the current S-Runner has a larger - than - baseline (3.4 vs. 3.0) V6. A V8 option has been wishlisted for eons, but there's a lot of chatter (elsewhere) claiming Toyota rep's say 'no'. If they try for a 4-cylinder option, it's gonna have to be big (e.g., the current 2.7).
- Transmissions. The X-Runner gets a 6-speed. But what about the other models? Remember, Toyota's been eliminating manuals for the last decade... After all these years, they _still_ haven't caved in and offered manuals on either the PreRunners or the Double Cabs.

alpha01

Don't count on seeing the 3.3L V6 in any Toyota "real" truck applications, as it was designed for use with the many iterations of FWD/AWD Camry platform, not for the tougher, more demanding use of Toyota's RWD/4WD trucks.

~alpha

kurt123

Prerunner models much like the 3.4 V6 was offered in the Xtra and doublecab models! I think it would be more than adequate for this truck, but a V8 would be awesome too!

spleck

I'd still say its a toss up. I would never consider a 2.4 or 2.7L a REAL truck engine either. The big issue is whether they go RWD with the 3.3L engine. The Highlander and Sienna are both using it, and I think its a suitable upgrade for on-road/light duty use (esp. non Pre-Runner/4WD).

My main contention is that the 3.4L is old. It's seeing minimal use in the Tundra, whose line is now dominated by the 4.7L V8. It's apparent that the 4.0L is coming to the Tacoma, and will probably dominate the line.

The general trend now is to consolidate engines and platforms, so I don't see Toyota keeping a 2.4L, 2.7L, 3.4L, 4.0L, and a 4.7L in their truck lineups.

Does anyone know if the Tacoma 2.4L is related to the Camry/RAV4/Highlander 2.4L?? If it is, then its most likely staying for the economy Tacoma. If Toyota puts a RWD tranny on the 3.3L, then I think it may replace both the 2.7L and the 3.4L. Toyota would rather you bought the 4.0L for REAL truck use.

I'd also say there's only a 1% chance of seeing the 4.7L V8 in the Tacoma until there's a bigger engine available for the Tundra.

spleck

The current baseline is the same 3.4L as in the S-Runner, so I think the primary features of the X-Runner over the baseline is the body styling, X-frame, and the 6-speed, not the 4.0L engine.

I just want a 4.0L double cab 4WD with a 5-speed. And other than the X-runner body kit, I like the looks of the 2005 Tacoma.

alpha01

Its not much of a toss up. The 2.4L and 2.7L long stroke 4s that you mention were intentionally designed as heavier duty/workhorse engines coupled with rear wheel drive. Neither revs very high or quickly, but both produce a decent amount of low end torque, with the 2.7L producing more torque than any other Toyota 4.

Despite the fact that the 3.3L is used in heavier vehicles such as the Sienna, HL, and RX, it was designed for moderate duty use, and not with rear wheel drive, or 4WD. (The Sienna, HL, and RX use a front wheel drive biased AWD system).

The 2.4L in the current Tacoma is not in the least related to the 2.4L in the Camry/HL/RAV4/tC.

I agree with the fact that Toyota would be using too many engines if the Taco 2.4L, 2.7L, and the Taco/Tundra 3.4L continue on. My guess is that only one or perhaps NONE of these three will serve as the base in the new Tacoma. Maybe we'll see a toughened version of the Camry's 2.4L, but I doubt it. In terms of the Tundra, I can easily see Toyota dropping the 3.4L V6 completely, with or without a base replacement. VERY FEW Tundras sell with the basic V6 and auto combination.

~alpha

buffalonickel

I have been looking for info on the hybrids in the pickup trucks. I know the large block V8 (man is that an awesome sight or what?) that is yet unavailable may have a "stepdown" engine that powers up with the V8 and economizes to the gas mileage of a 6 cylinder on the highway. I understand that will be introduced in the second generation production of that truck.


But I have yet to see anything on the Tacomas. Seems to me the bread and butter truck from Toyota was the Hilux and it may be a good one to introduce a hybrid that is maybe a six cylinder with the economy of the 4. Maybe that is in the works?


I also know that gasoline will rise in cost to over $2 a gallon this summer. It is already higher than $ 2 a gallon in California from what I understand. Gets expensive for long-distance commuters! Time for the hybrids to show up in the car shows!


B

got1b

Maybe this has already been stated but I figured the standard engine in the new Tacoma will be the 4.0L V6 currently in the 4Runner. I test drove a 4Runner yesterday just to see what it was like. It was a nice ride. Assuming the new Tacoma will be lighter then the 4 Runner, she should really cruise. I'd think that Toyota wioll offer a 4 cylinder for the economy market and the super charger for the HP market. Its hard to say whether we'll see the IForce V8 offered in the Tacoma like it is in the 4 Runner (which if you look at the dash, the vehicles are highly similar). With Toyota putting out a larger engine for the Titan, maybe we'll see the IForce in the Tacoma. This will help it better compete against the New Dakota and set it apart from the New Frontier whose engine has similar stats to the 4.0L.

The question is, what would be the gain? The 4.0L V6 gets more horsepower but less torque then the IForce. I think the only real gain would be for towing. But is the Tacoma made to tow more than 5,500 lbs? At the same time you'll loose fuel economy. Regardless, it'll be a great fall as these new trucks compete against one another. I just hope the New Tacoma retains all of its off road capability. I really hope the Crew Cab has the same sliding rear window as the Tundra.

moparbad

As a light truck the Tacoma is maxxed out for towing at 5,000 lbs no matter what engine they put in it. The trailer is too heavy and pushing the truck around when you reach 5,000 lbs and greater. Just my opinion.
Pulling a trailer with a car with total weight of about 4,500 lbs combined with a 2003 Tacoma Xcab 4WD V6 was fine as far as power, however, the pucker factor was fully engaged during braking. A compact truck is good for it's intended use, towing heavy loads is better left to full size 1/2, 3/4 or whichever truck is appropriate for the need.
I laughed for a long time at people complaining about the tow ratings on the new Colorado and Canyon.

got1b

Thats what I thought. It doesn't make any sense to put a V8 in. The new Tacoma will be larger, so it should be able to tow a little more, maybe the 5500-6,000 area.

got1b

Thats what I thought. It doesn't make any sense to put a V8 in. The new Tacoma will be larger, so it should be able to tow a little more, maybe the 5500-6,000 area.
As for the GM twins, I think they are grossly low. My Sienna can tow about as much as them. Now I realize these trucks won't be pulling Campers or anything, but they should be able to pull toys like quads, ski boats and such.

buffalonickel

I accede with the idea that the Tacoma's integrity to tow heavier weights is pushing the limits at 3,500 lbs. I would further assert that the reason these trucks are equipped with larger bodies and more powerful engines isn't for towing. Face it: you don't see many boats behind these trucks. They are used for transporting the family. And the occasional trip to the suburban nursery for a bucket of mulch.

So the size difference is in the cab. They metamorphosed from a regular cab to an extended to a quad cab. And now the regular cab is on the endangered species list because everyone is trading up.



And to attest to the 04 Tacoma: the extended-cab was one of two vehicles that lifted their wheels off the ground during the government's new "road-edge recovery test." The new wider stance and heavier profile '05 Tacoma should "set" more firmly on the road. I had wondered if that new ABS braking feature--that is supposed initiate on sharp turns to help that 04 Tacoma--contributed to the tip over?



And I wondered what the devil these test drivers did to cause it to go over. I saw a photo of the truck tipped up with the passenger side wheels lifted to 16" off the ground. The outriggers on the drivers side were in full contact with the pavement. And they didn't have that problem in previous tests. My wife ran our 94 Hilux off the edge of the road and descended down a steep embankment in the snow. She must have been all over that steering wheel by the tracks she made in the snow. The Hilux did not turn over and pulling it up that 8' embankment onto the highway simply took facing the road perpendicular, locking the hubs, putting the transfer case into 4-wheel and flying up the hill. That 4-popper responded beautifully and I was back on the road and driving home in a jiffy.

B

spleck

Any new info on the 2005 Tacoma yet? Surely there must be some information leaking, or an announcement date.

hkings

A couple new spy-shots of the 2005 Tacoma Double-Cab leaked out a few days ago on the net.

Here is the web address:

http://www.thecarconnection.com/index.asp?article=7069&sid=17- 8&n=158

Enjoy!

alpha01

"I had wondered if that new ABS braking feature--that is supposed initiate on sharp turns to help that 04 Tacoma--contributed to the tip over?"

Are you talking about vehicle stability control (VSC)? That system is pretty effective at PREVENTING loss of stability, so its unlikely it would contribute to a tip-up. But in any case, the Tacoma tested did not have VSC. VSC is standard in all Toyota SUVs for 2004 but not the P/Us.

~alpha

tacomanewbe

Does anyone know what the new price the Tacoma will be?

I really like the new 2005 style and it would be perfect for me. I only use the truck for myself and only put bicycles and motorcycles in the back. No Towing for me or off roading.

I'm very interested in the Factory surpercharger and think that is what I want. Anybody have an idea what price they will charge for this new model with Automatic and supercharger?

Thanks

sc0rpi0

Well, lets see.
Base price for 2005 will probably be around 16-20K for a 2WD model.
A V6 will drive the cost up to probably 22-24K, auto is another 1K. Blower costs 3K for current models, and new V6 will be shipping with a brand new TRD blower..that's another 3-4K (Blower that TRD made for iForce V8 cost 4K, thats the one that goes on Tundra).
So if you want a 2005, you may be able to get it for around 30K. Forget about buying it for invoice in the first year too.

Why not buy a 2004 model instead? Been around for a while, engines are proven design, TRD blower has finally been fixed (no ping like in 2001 models), and you can have it for a lot less. If you put a charger and headers on it, you can get it up to 265hp.

demoncleaner

Other than the Street truck we saw 3 month ago, not much has been released on this truck. Usually a manufacturer gathers a wave of hype leading into its intro, which is claimed to be this fall (ahead of the new Frontier and Durango, which we've seen a lot more of). No info release on the double cab, ext, or reg cab has got me thinking we arent seeing a "useable" (sorry X-runner, worthless where I am) Tacoma's this year. I hope I'm wrong, cause I need a new mid size truck by winter's snows. Hoping to buy a 4x4 TRD double cab, hopefully a 5'3 bed, w/manual 6spd, offer me an auto 4spd and I'll spend my money elsewhere. Toyota make my truck!

alpha01

"Usually a manufacturer gathers a wave of hype leading into its intro, which is claimed to be this fall (ahead of the new Frontier and Durango, which we've seen a lot more of)."

Toyota and Honda often go against the grain when introducing new models.

If you recall, the more bread and butter Toyota and Hondas are not intro-ed at auto shows or press events prior to immediate release. Think of the most recent generations of the Civic, Accord, Avalon, Corolla, Camry, and many others. Honda's much anticipated new Odyssey is due this September, but theres not much info thats concrete.

My point: Im willing to put money on the fact that we'll see a full range of Tacos this Fall, and if not a full range, something darn close.

~alpha

moparbad

If a new model is replacing a current one, Toyota and Honda and some others usually build, ship, begin selling the revised model and then and only then promote the new design. They do not want to affect the sales of current models and reduce profits and also do not want to provide information to competing manufacturers.

atlgaxt

I will be replacing my B4000 4X4 within the next year, would like a crew cab. Was not that excited about the X-runner - am not into the boy racer thing. Am not really into the 4 Runner with all the cladding also. That why I was surprised that the posted spy shots of the crew cab of few posts back look so good. Looks like the small truck segment is getting pretty interesting, right as fuel costs are sky rocketing, which will hopefully pull attention back from the big boys to the smaller trucks. I always figured most personal use truck owners really don't need that full sized iron.

Right now, I like the Tacoma more than the 2005 Frontier, which looks a little homely and the 2005 Dakota, which I think has gotten too big. The Ranger / Mazda are obsolete, and the Canyon / Colorado have that joke of a low torque 5 cylinder, as compared to the new 4.0 sixes in the Toyota and Nissan which will blow the GM twins into the weeds. The GM twins also have cheesy plastic interiors.

I also like the curtain airbags and stability control on the new Toyota. I am never buying another tall vehicle without these features. Two questions if anyone knows the answer:

1. Will Toyota offer a automatic or AWD mode on the 4wd? This is a great feature if you encounter changing road conditions, so you don't have to keep flipping back and forth. As an example - driving on a winding mountain road. You get in the sun, the road is bone dry. Round a bend and you are in snow and ice in the shade. Please note I do not want this at the expense of having a low range and an lsd.

2. Does anyone know how the back seat works? It seems the Nissan Titan is the only crew cab truck that gets it, with rear seats flipping up creating a relatively low and flat floor for dogs and stuff. From pictures I have seen the new Dakota and Nissan have seats that flip up, but the floors are not flat. Trucks where the seats flip down (Like the GM twins) create a load surface too high to easily put your dogs on, then the dogs will be drooling on your shoulder because they are sitting up so high. Flip up seats and a flat floor would clinch the deal for sure. Don't any truck designers actually have dogs? Do they just figure people put them in the bed?

Sorry for the long post, but I am pretty excited about the new Tacoma and look forward to learning more about it as time goes on.

got1b

I agree and hope Toyota will offer an AWD mode with there 4wd. GM offers it in their higher level vehicles. To me it makes sense, then you have a system you can use all the time, not just when you're off roading.

I think the only way the Colorado/Canyon will remain competitive is if they significantly rebate the vehicles, keeping them 2-3,000 below the inports!

oldman2

I am pleased with the info from these posts as I am very interested in a new Tacoma 4-door. I seem to be in the largest of minorities in that I do not wish for big, gas-guzzling engines or standard trannys.
My hope is that they offer a very economical 4-cyl. w/auto for my needs. I've been torn between a Dakota and a Taco. I like everthing about the Taco more except the width. Now, thankfully, that is changing. I too have dogs...and a wife, so fold up seats with a flat floor board would be great. I don't care how long it takes to get from light to light. Putting around is my speed now-a-days and with a bad left hip, I do not want to shift.
Anyways, thanks for the pics and info. When the MPG ratings come out, put 'em on here.

demoncleaner

I second your opinion atlgaxt. 1)Automode 4wd would be nice in a compact/midsize truck no doubt. Living in Lake-effect snow country, I'm tired of shifting in/out (along with slowing down necessary) all the time on variable roads. Soccer moms have it with thier urban on-roader SUV's. No reason why it cant be on pickups. and 2) the seats flipping up is def better. Folding down like the Colorado,I cant understand why. If heavy items are needed in the cab want them low to the floor so not blocking view out the back, easier loading and yes better center of gravity. Hope i didnt lose anyone on that last one...

chorton

std engine will be the 2.7L 4cyl. it is supposed to have about 25 more horses than the current production engine, my guess is they added
VVT-I to it. The upgrade will be the 4.0L V6 currently used in the 4runner. I still HOPE they will offer the v8 in the d-cab models, but i don't think it will happen.....yet.

atlgaxt

but I think the V6 will be plenty powerful. My guess is that the Tacoma crew cab should weigh several hundred pounds less than a 4 Runner, so it should have ample power.

moparbad

I would prefer the diesel to be offered as I prefer power AND efficiency.
The 1KZ-TE 3.0L turbo diesel offers more power than the gasoline 3.4L and is 20% more fuel efficient.

atlgaxt

I'd love the diesel also, but most manufacturers are hesitant to bring the new product over until they are sure that they will be able to meet the new 2007 emissions regs. I know more diesels are starting to creep in from VW, Mercedes and the Jeep Liberty, but they all might be going away again in two years. Its tough to recoup your investment in two years.

toyotasiennab

The liter is about right but the the engine is from a new family. The engine is a "t" engine. They are using the 4.0 along with this "t" engine for the 4cylinder.

spleck

Here's some info I've gathered elsewhere:

Extra Cab or Double Cab only (if Reg cab is available, it will probably only be for non Pre-Runner/4WD models, ie BASE)
2.7L 4 cyl (2WD only) or 4.0L V6 engines
4-speed and 5-speed electronic auto trannies (I assume 4spd = 4 cyl, 5-speed = 6 cyl)
5-speed (no info on which configs its available) and 6-speed (X-Runner only problaby) manual trannies.
Truck moves to midsize from compact, possible loss of ground clearance (2 inches?). Gas mileage should be similar to current models (est 20 mpg for 4.0L 2WD on interstate - reference 4Runner)

tacomanewbe

Thanks for info.

Do you think the X-Runner with super charger will be available in Automatic or 6 speed only?

toycash

The Regular Cab will still be available as 2wd, 4wd and PreRunner. There will still be 4wd 4-cyl, I don't know what size. All 4-cyl manual transmissions are 5-spd, all 6-cyl are 6-spd.

lexi4life

I think that 15% of all 2005 tacoma trucks will be built in Mexico. Do you think fit and finish will be worse than in 2004 tacomas ?

mrjjgittes

Wow, I just saw the pics of that 2005 Tacoma in the snow. I have been in the market for a pickup, and now I am going to have to wait for these to come out. The current Tacoma is just a bit to small and narrow for me. The four door tundra is a bit too big, as are the domestics. (I wish they would have just ate up a little bed space and kept the same dimensions as the extended cab tundra.) And the current dakota just doesn't do it for me. I guess I'll also wait and look at the 2005 dakota too. Anyway, this new tacoma may be just right. Now, let's hope they price it well, and by xmas they may have a 4 door 4x4 one sold to me.

toyotasiennab

Here is some perf numbers from Toyota
for the 2.7 liter 163hp with 183lb.ft
The 4.0 is 245-282lbft

The 2.7ltr mileage goes from 22/25(from the 2.4)
to 24/35 in the 2.7!!!!

gagrice

I started pricing the Tacoma PU. I thought I was back in the 1960s. Everything is an option. I hate that. Have packages available with all the good stuff and don't put us through the old line of are you going to be dirving in the Rain? Then you will need windshield wipers. Their pricing system is a joke.

cjsdad

Where can I see this picture of the 2005 Tacoma in the snow? The only thing I've seen is the X-Runner, some disguised pics of one in traffic, or some pics of what's supposed to be a 4WD club cab that looks like a photoshop special.

mrjjgittes

http://www.thecarconnection.com/index.asp?n=158,178&sid=178&a- mp;article=7069

gagrice

That is a lot better looking than the XRunner. Looks like they used a Chevy designer for the tail lights.

fwillison

I hate the way this new Tacoma looks. I guess I'll be searching for a 03 or 04 model now. Disappointing.

jacoddy

Here is the new Tacoma we all are waiting for.

 

It looks bigger, they said 4.5 inches wide 4 inches longer and 4 inches taller, from what I see on the pictures extra cab open doors, 18 inch wheels
I heard it has a 4.0 v6 engine with 6 speed trans.

I think this is going to be my truck for Christmas.

jacoddy

Here is the new Tacoma we all are waiting for.

 

It looks bigger, they said 4.5 inches wide 4 inches longer and 4 inches taller, from what I see on the pictures extra cab open doors, 18 inch wheels
I heard it has a 4.0 v6 engine with 6 speed trans.

lexi4life

Looks cool! I like it, it looks like a two door 4runner because they share almost the same front grille and headlights.

mrjjgittes

sure that's not a photoshop production?

jacoddy