Toyota Trucks : Then
Toyota Trucks: Now
Of modest beginnings, Toyota has come a long way since the days of small cabs and compact cargo beds. Let’s take a look back at Toyota truck history.
1964
Toyota Motors introduced Stout in the American markets in 1964. It took four years to transform Stout into Hi-Lux, with a 4-cylinder 1.9L engine known as 3R – it was an instant success.
Until 1979, Toyota left the Hi-Lux relatively unchanged, replacing the old engine with a 3rd generation 2.0L 18-RC. Named “Pick-up Truck of the Year” by Pickup, Van & 4WD, the Hi-Lux eventually lost its title, known only as compact truck.
1979
With a sporty look, 5-speed manual transmission and 4WD, the SR5 was a substantial improvement in truck design. Starting here, Toyota truck production was divided into 4×2 and 4×4 streams.
1981
A 2.4L gasoline superseded the 22R engine making Toyota trucks more reliable and durable. In the same year, Toyota introduced a 2.2L diesel engine as well.
1984
The 5th generation truck was born. Toyota unveiled Xtracab, featuring additional storage space, an advanced locking system and a turbo charged engine. The trucks got minor facelifts along with a 4-speed electronic transmission control and IFS (Independent Front Suspension).
1989
By 1989, 6th generation trucks were on a roll with an all-new V6 and huge towing capacity. Small improvements and modifications continued until 1994. During this period, Toyota pickups obtained various luxury features, including AC, CD-players and sport seating.
1995
The Tacoma ushered in the 7th generation of Toyota truck manufacturing. The new Tacoma, designed and produced in America, was redesigned as both a 2WD and 4WD. Both versions had an optional 190Hp 3.4L V6 engine able to produce 220lb–ft of torque. New safety features included side airbags, adjustable seatbelt anchors, enhanced side view mirror and 4-wheel anti-lock brakes.
Toyota Trucks in 1995
Tacoma sees a radical change in styling, with facade-covering-grilles, a raised chassis, multi-reflector headlights and an extensive interior upgrade. The newly launched Tacoma Double Cab offered more room for cargo and passengers, with comfort of an SUV. Gradually Toyota introduced sports trucks with Xtracab in the form of S-Runner and SideStep powered by a 4 or 6 cylinder engine.
2005
Tacoma enters a new model year with 18 different trims, ranging from a 4×2 regular cab with a small pickup bed, to a 4×4 double cab featuring an extended bed. The brand new X-Runner with 6-speed manual transmission, a 4L V6 and 18-inch wheels supersedes S-Runner.
Present
With minor tweaks in 2006 and 2007, today’s Toyota trucks are a carry over from 2008. With enhanced luxury and safety features Toyota continues to be the most reliable and popular choice for pickup trucks owners around the world.
Image: Wikimedia
