2004 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab

Tilt steering and bucket front seats with adjustable headrests are part of the Tacoma's interior package.

That's not the case with every upgrade, however. Even as the current model prepares to sing its swan song, the 2004 model now has ABS standard with Electronic Brake Force Distribution. Toyota engineers designed EBD to optimize brake pressure at each wheel for greater control, especially when cornering. In addition, a Brake Assist system determines if the driver is attempting emergency braking, and supplements braking power by engaging the ABS.


Both 4x4 and 4x2 models come with Active TRAC, a traction-control system intended for off-road use. Also, V6 models can now be equipped with Vehicle Stability Control. We ran a V6-powered 4x4 Tacoma on some washboard roads, and deliberately broke loose the rear tires for some slippin' and slidin' in the dirt. Since we don't even come close to the off-road skills of Ivan Stewart, we found the VSC came in handy in keeping us out of the ditches and gullies. There's plenty of power to throttle steer around a switchback, but the handling is still smooth and tractable.


Speaking of power output, we should take a look at all the various engine options on the Tacoma. You get to choose between three different powerplants. At the entry level, a two-wheel-drive Tacoma has a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine, rated at 142 hp and 160 pound-feet of torque. The next step up for both the 4WD Tacoma and 2WD PreRunner is the 2.7-liter four that offers a few more horses at 150hp, but a bigger jump in torque to 177 lb-ft.


Leading the powertrain lineup is a 3.4-liter V6 that pumps out 190 horses and 220 lb-ft of torque. It's standard on the Double Cab model and optional on the Xtracab models. And if you're looking for even more muscle, Toyota Racing Development has an EPA-certified, fully warranted supercharger kit that boosts the V6 output to 260 hp.

Standard on the Double Cab is a 3.4L V-6 that pumps out 190 hp and 220 lb.-ft. of torque.

Transmission choices include either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic. When it comes to towing power, four-cylinder models can handle up to 3,500 pounds, while the V6 is capable of handling up to 5,000 pounds.