The X-Runner package bundled a 4.0-liter V6 with a six-speed manual 'box, lowered suspension, and rear-wheel drive.
Toyota recently unveiled the new Tacoma, and if you want to hit rugged trails and explore the great outdoors, it could be the truck you're looking for – especially in TRD Pro guise.
But if it's a sports truck you want, you'd be better off with this 2005 Tacoma X-Runner, for sale on Bring A Trailer. While it doesn't look like much, this is a unique specimen of the second-generation truck. When new, the X-Runner package added lowered suspension (with anti-roll bars), Bilstein dampers, and other sporty add-ons, which we'll get to later.
Powering this athletic truck is the 1GR-FE 4.0-liter V6 engine that produces 245 horsepower and 282 lb-ft of torque. In X-Runner guise, the adequately powered motor is paired with a six-speed manual transmission which channels power to the rear wheels.
The V6 is reasonably reliable and should last the course, and with 132,000 miles on the clock, it's hardly run in.
If you want to do an engine swap, Toyota's G16E-GTS turbocharged three-cylinder (used in the GR Corolla) would be a fine candidate. A good old-fashioned LS swap should do the job just as well. It certainly wouldn't be the most unusual LS swap ever.
The X-Runner sits two inches closer to the ground than other Tacomas and was fitted with 18-inch alloy wheels from the factory. This particular model wears 17-inch Sparco Trofeo alloys wrapped in Nokian One tires. If you want to turn it into a performance truck, it might be wise to upgrade the standard brakes. While the front axle is fitted with discs, the rear has to make do with old-fashioned drums.
Interestingly, the latest Tacoma is the first model to feature discs on all wheels.
The Tacoma has been fitted with several accessories to enhance the styling. Up front, you will find an aftermarket grille and headlights, which may not be to everyone's tastes. Clear lenses can also be found at the rear. Thankfully, the original components can easily be sourced at reasonable prices. At least the truck comes with the original wheels. The Japanese truck shows its age, though, with multiple scratches and dents found on the bodywork.
As an XtraCab, there are jump seats for occasional use, along with extra storage space for tools and accessories. The latest model has done away with these small seats, with Toyota claiming that owners rarely use them. Instead, the area has been utilized for additional storage – a boon for tradespeople and adventurers.
A CarFax report lists a side impact collision with another vehicle.
The interior is pretty much standard, save for the tacky billiard-ball shift knob and aftermarket touchscreen with a CD/DVD player and Bluetooth connectivity. The footwells also feature LED lighting strips, which attempt to lend the somber cabin some ambiance.
Grey plastic covers just about every surface of the dashboard and cabin. It's not the most exciting place to sit, but it should last another 20 years. The seats must be reupholstered; they're showing their age, with a prominent tear in the driver's seat.
With just one day to go, the current bid is $6,400. Whoever gets their hands on this sports truck will have something rather unique on their hands. Whether it forms the foundation of an exciting project car or serves as a fun-yet-practical workhorse, it's a great reminder of a bygone time when manufacturers would try to entice customers by injecting sportiness into everything, including trucks.
Keyword: Toyota Tacoma X-Runner Could Be The Perfect Foundation For A Sports Truck Build