It was the first import challenger in the full-sized truck market. Toyota entered the T100 in this domestic stronghold with great enthusiasm (and probably some trepidation) back in 1993 and although the challenge was greater than anticipated it continues to hang-in and compete.

T100 came in 4x2 or 4x4 versions, however it lacked the long shopping list of trim levels, drivetrain variations and optional equipment the North American truck buyer has come to expect. A big step-up in size and utility when compared to Toyota's compact pickup, the T100 was initially only offered with a standard cab (no extended cab) and powered by a good but "big load" limiting 3.0 litre V6 engine that generates 150 horsepower.

On the other hand, the T100 has a payload capacity of 749 kg (1651 lb.) and a maximum towing capacity of 2268 kg (5,000 lb.) which is certainly competitive with base versions of the 'Big-3' pickups. Add to that Toyota's excellent reputation for quality and reliability and you have a desirable but probably hard to find used truck purchase, as initial sales were poor.

Safety upgrades came in '94 in the form of a driver's side air bag and side impact beams in the doors. The much needed extended-cab (the T100 Xtracab) version finally arrived in '95 and with it also came a new and more powerful 3.4 V6 engine. An anti-lock braking system was also offered as an option for the first time. The Xtracab quickly out-paced the regular cab in sales and by the 1998 model year it was the only cab size offered.

The T100 has never been recalled for a safety-related problem, which is quite an achievement. However, the 3.0 V6 is known to have weak cylinder head gaskets that tend to leak. Even if the original warranty has expired, check with a Toyota dealer to see if the gaskets are covered under an extension on that warranty from the manufacturer.

Sold in either basic or SR5 trim levels the Toyota T100 has more car-like qualities than other vehicles in its class. Although, generally considered a lightweight in the full-sized truck market, it still could be all the truck you need.

Used Toyota T100 Prices (January 2001)

Year Model Price today Price new 1993 T100 Regular Cab 4x2 $6,500 to $9,500 $17,920 1995 T100 Regular Cab 4x2 $10,000 to $13,000 $23,302 1997 T100 Regular Cab 4x2 $14,000 to $17,000 $26,448

Used vehicle prices vary depending on factors such as general condition, odometer reading, usage history and options fitted. Always have a used vehicle checked by an experienced auto technician before you buy.

A senior member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), Bob McHugh is a regular contributor to numerous automotive publications as well as Senior Technical Advisor at the British Columbia Automobile Association (BCAA).

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