The 2003 Toyota Tacoma is a line more than it is a model
of truck. Three different engines, various cab size and
truck bed configurations on 2 and 4-wheel drive platforms
mean the Toyota Tacoma line is diverse in its shape and
capability range. The 4-cylinder models are described here.
They are aimed at those who want the usefulness of a light-duty
pick-up truck without sacrificing economy and driving something
more beefy than is necessary 90% of the time. The 2WD Tacoma
models are highly rated for fuel economy, quality and reliability,
all traits characteristic of Toyota.
Available Models
The 4-cylinder 2003 Toyota Tacoma models have an assortment
of permutations. However, in order of cost, they are as
follows: 2WD Base regular-cab (manual), 2WD Base regular-cab
(automatic), 4WD Base regular-cab (manual), 4WD regular-cab
(automatic), 2WD Xtracab extended-cab (manual), 2WD Xtracab
extended-cab (automatic), 4WD Xtracab extended-cab (manual),
4WD Xtracab extended-cab (automatic), 2WD PreRunner regular-cab
(automatic), 2WD PreRunner Xtracab extended-cab (automatic),
and finally, the 2WD PreRunner Double Cab crew-cab (automatic).
In essence, there are manual and automatic versions of
the 2WD and 4WD Base regular-cab and Xtracab editions, and,
automatic transmission controlled versions of the 2WD PreRunner
models in regular, Xtracab and Double Cab Crew Cab. Finally,
at the top of the price range, the Double Cab crew-cab has
a 4WD edition.
Interior Features
The 2003 Toyota Tacoma starts with a barebones work horse,
the Base Regular Cab, which has power steering, a bench
seat with cloth upholstery, and AM/FM radio and that's about
it. However, at the other end of the scale, the Pre-runner
adds front bucket seats w/power driver-seat lumbar support,
a tilt leather-wrapped steering wheel, power door locks,
remote keyless entry, a tachometer and variable-intermittent
wipers.
The more major luxury amenities are available as parts
of comprehensive optional packages. The Chrome Package,
for example, offers air conditioning, 4-in-1 audio system,
tachometers and various exterior detailing.
Exterior Features
The 2003 Toyota Tacoma has bold styling, making it look
bigger than it is while preserving its mobility in urban
traffic situations. However, the exterior displays the many
permutations. The Double Cab models have independently opening
front-hinged rear doors; the Xtracabs have two doors and
jump seats in the back while the regular cab just has the
front bench. The PreRunner models have raised suspension
and are more off-road capable as a result.
Performance
The 4-cylinder Toyota Tacoma trucks produce 142-hp from
2.4-liters of displacement. 160 lb-ft. of torque pushes
pretty hard regardless of the model you are driving. Enough,
with 1,480-pounds of payload capacity, to give this model
a "best in its class" with 200-300 pounds more
capacity than its four-cylinder competitors.
Safety and Security
Safety is a key design priority for Toyota and the Tacoma
is a safe vehicle because of its height and the extensive
visibility allowed by the truck seat position. However,
this safety is enhanced further with dual-front supplemental
restraints.
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2003 Toyota Tacoma Highlights
 Outstanding
power-to-weight ratios help give Tacoma models impressive
performance and fuel efficiency. Toyota dealers offer
a Toyota Racing Development (TRD) supercharger kit
for the V6 that boosts horsepower to 260. The system
carries a full factory warranty and is EPA-certified.
Tacoma
offers both two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive models
in all body styles. Forty percent of all Tacoma's
sold are 4X4 models, which feature a two-speed transfer
case and a heavy-duty chassis. A locking rear differential
is available as an option.
A
sporty StepSide bed is available for all standard-cab
and Xtracab models in conjunction with the SR5 option
package. The steel StepSide cargo box provides the
same functional bed length, overall exterior width
and cargo box depth as the regular bed. The cargo
floor width between the wheelwells also remains the
same. The interior bed width is reduced by just under
nine inches, but payload remains the same.
The
Tacoma offers a wide variety of interior and exterior
upgrade options, as well as a large selection of dealer-installed
accessories to personalize the truck. Many buyers
choose the sporty SR5 package to add the most desirable
options at a high-value price. The SR5 package includes
air conditioning, 3-in-1 audio, tilt steering wheel,
tachometer, digital clock, sunvisors with vanity mirrors,
and a chrome or color-keyed appearance package.
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 Get
a Free Price Quote on a 2003 Toyota Tacoma.
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| Fast Stats
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| Seats |
3 / 5
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| MSRP
from |
$12,610
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| Engine |
2.4L 4-cylinder
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2.7L 4-cylinder
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3.4L V6
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| Horsepower |
142 hp @ 5,000
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150 hp @ 4,800
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190 hp @ 4,800
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| Transmission |
4-speed auto
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5-speed manual
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| MPG:
City/Hwy |
2.4L auto 22/25
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2.7L auto 19/22
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3.4L auto 17/19
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2003
Toyota Tacoma V6 - Review
