New models added this year include a four-door version called the Double Cab. While this is not a new concept within the compact truck market, it's a first for the Tacoma. Also new this year is the extended cab S-Runner. This sport-oriented model comes with a special on-road suspension system, color-keyed grille, lower valence panel, and bumpers, special aluminum wheels, and a 190-horsepower V6 hooked up to a tuned exhaust system. Also new for 2001 include an available StepSide bed with bulging fender flares over the rear wheels and a small step behind the doors.
Base rear-wheel drive (4X2) Tacomas start at just under $12,000. Frugal in features, these are working machines powered by an economical 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine that will push them along for many years of reliable service.
The Tacoma PreRunner is a 4x2 truck with an off-road suspension. PreRunners are available in either regular, extended (Xtracab) or four-door Double Cab configurations. Choose between a 2.7-liter inline-4 and a 3.4-liter V6. PreRunners start at about $14,000.
The four-wheel drive end of the line is available in the same cab configurations, with either the 2.7 four-cylinder (starting just over $16,000) or the 3.4-liter V6 (starting at just over $19,000).
You can add a TRD (Toyota Racing Development) off-road option package to 2WD PreRunner or 4WD Xtracab models (except those equipped with four-cylinder engines and automatic transmissions). The TRD package adds Bilstein shocks, locking rear differential, increased-rate front coil springs and rear leaf spring suspension, modified camber rear springs, a larger stabilizer bar, 31x10.5R15 white-letter Goodyear tires, overfenders (color-keyed on Limited models), and special graphics. Also available from TRD is a fully warranted, dealer-installed supercharger for the 3.4-liter V6. The TRD blower boosts output by 40 percent, from 190 to 260 horsepower.