What years are the Toyota Tacoma Prerunner?
The Toyota Tacoma PreRunner badge appeared in two main eras of the pickup’s history. It was first offered during the late 1990s through the 2004 model year, and then again from the mid-2000s through the 2015 model year. In the current, third-generation Tacoma (introduced in 2016), there is no official PreRunner trim; buyers typically turn to other trims or aftermarket lifts to achieve a similar look and stance.
First-generation PreRunner (1998–2004)
In the original, first-generation Tacoma lineup, the Prerunner designation was available for a span of model years that roughly covers the late 1990s into the end of the generation. The following years are commonly cited as the PreRunner period for this generation.
- Model years 1998–2004
The first-generation PreRunner was a 2WD model with a raised suspension and styling cues that gave it a rugged, rally-inspired appearance, separating it from the standard 4x4 lineup of the time.
Second-generation PreRunner (2005–2015)
When Toyota redesigned the Tacoma for the second generation, the PreRunner badge reappeared as a 2WD configuration with lifted suspension, aimed at buyers who wanted a street-ready truck with off-road aesthetics without the full 4x4 capability. This period spans the mid-2000s through the mid-2010s.
- Model years 2005–2015
During this generation, the PreRunner helped maintain the “prerunner” look in a modern chassis, but Toyota eventually phased out the name as other trim packages and off-road-oriented options evolved within the lineup.
Current status and alternatives
Since the introduction of the third-generation Tacoma in 2016, Toyota has not offered an official PreRunner trim. Prospective buyers seeking a similar effect often choose:
- TRD Sport or TRD Off-Road trims with optional suspension tuning
- Lowered/raised 2WD configurations from the aftermarket
- 2WD Tacomas outfitted with factory lift kits and all-terrain tires to mimic the PreRunner look
These options provide a modern balance of on-road refinement and off-road capability without the explicit PreRunner badge.
Summary
The Toyota Tacoma PreRunner was officially offered in two major eras: model years 1998–2004 for the first generation and model years 2005–2015 for the second generation. The badge has not been used on the current generation since 2016, but enthusiasts can still achieve a similar appearance through specific trims or aftermarket modifications.
