Auto123.com - Helping you drive happy

2004 Toyota X-Runner Concept

Get the best interest rate
Rob Rothwell

Performance Picks Up for Toyota's Midsize Pickup

Toyota has quite deservedly earned a strong reputation over the years for building quality pickups, but they've never been thought of as the makers of performance-oriented trucks; and that's an image Toyota is trying hard to change.

The Tacoma X-Runner could mark Toyota's entrance into the performance-oriented consumer truck niche market, if built. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

With its full-size Tundra, Toyota intends to be a contender in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. You'll also find Toyota trucks battling it out among the domestics in Championship Off-Road Racing, where the Toyota team of Johnny Greaves and Jeff Kincaid has enjoyed numerous successes.

Furthering its performance image, Toyota recently invited me along with a group of auto journalists from across the country to Calgary, Alberta, where I had the chance to see the Canadian debut of the Tacoma X-Runner pickup concept.

The X-Runner is a great looking, midsize pickup that has the guts to back up its "bad boy" styling. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

One glance made it clear that finally some of the strong Toyota truck-racing heritage is filtering down to street level. The X-Runner was carefully positioned beneath bright stage lighting in the ballroom of a posh hotel. My first thought was, "how'd they get that thing in here?" My only conclusion is that David Copperfield must have had something to do with it.

Smoke and mirrors aside, the X-Runner is a great looking, mid-size pickup that has the guts to back up its "bad boy" styling. More than just a Tacoma pickup on steroids, the X-Runner concept is a completely new vehicle. In fact, look for a civilized version - sans ground effects - to replace the current line of slightly smaller Tacoma pickups. This new Tacoma will enjoy a lengthened wheelbase and wider track, resulting in greater cab dimensions and better ride dynamics.

Rob Rothwell
Rob Rothwell
Automotive expert
None