Two special variants are the PreRunner and S Runner models, each going in different directions, philosophically and vertically speaking. The 2 wheel drive only PreRunner gets the 4 wheel drive’s suspension for the high riding off road look of a 4×4, without the weight or expense. Available in all three cab configurations, but only with an automatic transmission, the PreRunner’s base engine is the bigger 2.7 liter dohc four, though the V6 can be ordered in Xtracab and Double Cab versions. With its roots firmly planted in desert racing, the PreRunner can also be optioned with a TRD (Toyota Racing Development) Off Road Package that includes Bilstein or Tokico shock absorbers, revised spring rates, 16x 7 in. alloy wheels with P265/70R-16 tires, a chunkier front antiroll bar, black fender flares, TRD graphics =, and a driver controlled locking differential. This same package is available on 4 wheel drive Tacomas. At the other height extreme, the sporty 2 wheel drive S-Runner Xtracab sits a full inch lower than regular 2 wheel drive models. Rather than ground clearance, the S-Runner favors performance and handling by teaming its V6 and 5 speed manual combination with higher rate springs, Tokico gas shock absorbers, larger front and rear antiroll bars, stiffer bushings and revised steering feel.
The S-Runner wears meaty p235/55R-16 tires on 6.5 in. wide alloy rims, and exhales through a chrome tripped tuned exhaust. Inside are spot seats with a driver’s side power lumber adjustment, white face full instrumentation leather wrapped tilt wheel and shift knob, and a rear console box. Air conditioning, power windows and door locks, a 6 speaker sound system and a monochrome exterior paint scheme round out the package.
