What years are 2nd gen Toyota pickups?

The second-generation Toyota Pickup in the United States was produced for model years 1989 through 1995. Across other markets, the generation spanned roughly the late 1980s to mid-1990s, with regional variations in timing and specifications.

Timeline and regional scope

The 2nd generation represented a major redesign over the first, introducing a more squared, rugged exterior, updated interior controls, and revised chassis tuning. In the United States, the lineup offered standard-cab and extended-cab (Xtracab) bodies, along with two- and four-wheel-drive configurations. Engine options varied by year and market, including inline-four 2.4-liter engines and, in later years, a 3.0-liter V6 for certain trims and markets. The generation began in 1989 in most markets and concluded in the U.S. around the 1995 model year, as Toyota began transitioning to the next-generation Tacoma in the mid-1990s. Some global markets continued with similar designs into the mid-1990s, before fully rolling into the next generation in other regions at different times.

Key features and spec highlights

Design and body styles

The 2nd generation introduced a refreshed body with a more modern, boxy look and the popular Xtracab extended-cab option, expanding practicality for passengers and cargo. The standard cab remained available alongside the extended-cab variant, with multiple bed lengths and drivetrain choices.

Engines and drivetrains

Engine options typically included the 2.4-liter inline-four 22R family, with fuel-injected variants (22R-E) appearing in later years. A 3.0-liter V6 (3VZE) was added in some markets during the early 1990s, broadening the model’s appeal. Transmission choices commonly included a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic, depending on the trim level and market.

Market evolution and the end of an era

In the United States, the 1995 model year marked a turning point as Toyota introduced the all-new Tacoma to replace the traditional pickup in the compact segment. This shift signaled the practical end of the US-era 2nd-generation Toyota Pickup, while other regions continued to produce and sell similar second-generation designs for a short period longer, before migrating to newer generations in those markets as well.

How to identify a 2nd-generation model

Look for the design cues introduced with the generation—slab-sided panels, squared-off front end, and the availability of the Xtracab extended-cab layout. VIN coding and model-year badges, along with dealer literature from 1989–1995, are reliable references. If you’re shopping, confirm the engine option (2.4L 22R/22R-E or the 3.0L V6 in certain regions) and note the cab style and bed length to verify it’s from the 1989–1995 window.

Summary

The 2nd-generation Toyota Pickup, led by models produced from 1989 to 1995 in the U.S., brought a modernized design, the popular Xtracab option, and expanded engine choices that included a V6 in some markets. While the U.S. market phased out the pickup in favor of the Tacoma in the mid-1990s, the generation persisted in various regions worldwide for a few more years before giving way to newer generations. This era remains notable for its practicality, reliability, and the enduring appeal of the extended-cab configuration.

What are the generations of Toyota pickups?

Toyota has produced multiple generations of pickup trucks, with the most prominent lines being the historical Toyota Pickup (which was the Hilux in most global markets) and its successor, the Toyota Tacoma in North America. The original Toyota Pickup/Hilux had eight generations sold globally, while the Tacoma has been through four generations since its 1995 debut to replace the Pickup in the U.S. market.
 
You can watch this video to learn about the history of the Toyota Tacoma from 1995 to the present: 55sAlphaSharkYouTube · Mar 25, 2023
Toyota Pickup / Hilux (Global)

• Generations: There have been eight generations of the Toyota Hilux, with the name "Pickup" used in the U.S. market until 1995. 
• Timeline: The first generation was produced in 1968. The eighth generation began in 2015. 
• Notable Features: Each generation has introduced new features, with the Hilux evolving from a basic commercial vehicle into a more versatile and modern truck. 

This video shows the evolution of the Toyota Tacoma from the oldest models to the newest one: 57sThe Fast Lane TruckYouTube · Oct 12, 2023
Toyota Tacoma (North America) 

• Generations: The Tacoma is currently in its fourth generation, having started with the first generation in 1995. 
• Timeline:
  • 1st Gen: 1995–2004 
  • 2nd Gen: 2005–2015 
  • 3rd Gen: 2016–2023 
  • 4th Gen: 2024–Present 
• Notable Features: Each generation has seen changes in size, power, and features, such as the introduction of the TRD off-road package in the first generation and hybrid powertrain options in the fourth. 

This video explains which Toyota Tacoma generation to buy: 1mAutotraderYouTube · Apr 3, 2025

What year is a 3rd gen Toyota pickup?

Q: When was the Toyota Pickup - 3rd Gen produced? A: The Toyota Pickup - 3rd Gen was sold for model years 1979 to 1983.

What year is 3nd gen Tacoma?

2016
The third-generation Toyota Tacoma first became available in 2016 and featured a smaller but more powerful V6 engine.

What year is a gen 2 Toyota Tacoma?

The second generation of the Tacoma was produced from 2005 to 2015 and had more powerful engines and improved suspension.