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By Vanessa Juarez
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If the 2005 Toyota Tacoma X-Runner posted a picture of itself on HotOrNot.com, the Web site's 1-to-10 scale couldn't possibly do it justice. That's because the X-Runner, a new version of the Tacoma, comes with a ground-effects package--code for "We sexed it up with some sassy, 'Fast and the Furious'-style accessories." Toyota did it just right: the X-Runner sits an inch lower to the ground than the standard Tacoma and hovers over low-profile tires that frame 18-inch alloy wheels, a tight and sleek configuration. Tally in the scoop hood, fog lamps and the color-keyed exterior, and it's jaw-dropping.
When you release the clutch and pounce on the gas, the X-Runner smoothly zips off the line and the exhaust purrs at a perfect decibel. It has a sports car hiding under the hood: a 245-horsepower V-6 engine, to be exact (it goes from zero to 60 in less than seven seconds). One cautionary note: at 5 feet 3, I could barely push in the clutch fully, even with the seat all the way forward. So if you're shrimpy, take it for a test drive first.
Tip: For a couple more thou, get the roomier Tacoma 4x4 Double Cab.
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