| Ladder frame construction | Strong frame design can support a moderate build-up (expedition and off-road modifications) on rough trails. Easily accommodates rock sliders and other after-market rock armor. Toyota has designed the underbelly so that all of the components are tucked up high to maximize ground clearance and minimize damage. |
| Double-wishbone Independent Front Suspension (IFS) with coil-over shocks | This suspension design has proven to be very durable and has a lot of aftermarket options available including complete long-travel kits as well as high-quality adjustable and rebuild-able coil-over shocks. Stock A-arms and CV joints can reliably accommodate up to 2.5" of suspension lift. Does not use torsion bars. |
| Straight rear-axle with spring-over leaf suspension | Easily customizable rear suspension with plenty of articulation and minimal protrusion of parts below the axle. |
| Selectable, electric, rear locking differential (factory option) | Time proven, reliable, indispensable tool for traction. |
| Selectable, air-operated, front locking differential (aftermarket option) | Air locker is available from ARB. Other (full-time) lockers are available from other manufacturers. |
| "5VZFE" V6, 190 HP Engine (factory supercharger avail - 260HP) | Time proven, bullet-proof, non-interference type, efficient engine. 3-second removal of air filter, fast fluid level checks, with most fluid reservoirs being see-through. In over 138,000 miles and almost 10 years of use so far, my engine does not leak any fluids. |
| 6'-0" cargo bed (Regular cab and Xtracab models) | Sufficient as sleeping quarters for anyone under 6 feet tall. (a sleeping platform with some kind of sliding extension could probably be built for people over 6 feet tall). Width between fender wells is over 4'-0" - great for building a cargo deck. |
| 18.5 gallon fuel tank with EPA mileage estimates of 17 mpg (city) | A reasonably efficient use of fuel when considering the use of the vehicle for expeditions. I actually get an average of 16-17 mpg with mixed use driving AFTER all of my modifications. Note that there is enough room under this truck to fit an auxiliary fuel tank. Downey Off-Road makes an aftermarket unit or you can build your own. |
