The Toyota Tacoma PreRunner model was added to the impressive line of Tacoma mid-sized pickup trucks in 1998. This interesting model name was inspired by the vehicles used to 'pre-run' off road race courses prior to their completion for competition purposes. As such, the PreRunner was promoted as being able to expertly undertake the same driving conditions that are presented on a typical race track. However, much of the PreRunner is about show and image. Although it looks like a sporty 4 x 4, it is not. This truck does do much better than other two wheel drive pickups during off road use due to its increased height, locking rear differential and huge all terrain tires. However, much of what this pick up looks like it can do it cannot. In appearance, large fender flares and a rough and tough looking grille and front end definitely allude to much more under the hood.

The PreRunner has received the same upgrades throughout the years as the rest of the Tacoma line; bigger engines, more refined interior, and the integration of better technologies. Many people did not understand the attraction of this pickup truck and the deceptiveness of its appearance in regards to actual utility, but many in the younger generation definitely understood the appeal. It looks expensive, it looks like more than it is; these things appealed to younger drivers lacking an abundance of money in search of a lot of style in a hot little pickup truck. Without the actual components that make up the heavy duty suspension of 4 wheel drive models, the PreRunner was substantially less expensive but still looked great.

As of the 2007 model year, the PreRunner had grown in size like all other Tacomas and is available with a choice of three cabs-regular, extended and crew. Engine choices are either a fuel efficient 2.7 inline 4 cylinder or a higher performance 4.0 V6. The standard configuration includes a manual transmission with an automatic transmission being an option. If your pickup truck image needs a little boost and your cash flow is slight, the Tacoma PreRunner is sure to catch your eye.