Toyota Tacoma

Overview: Is the Toyota Tacoma a Good Midsize Truck?

The midsize Toyota Tacoma pickup offers strong capabilities wrapped in a reliable package. Sold with multiple cab configurations, the Tacoma comes with proven four-cylinder or six-cylinder power to balance work needs with everyday livability. The available TRD Off-Road package and TRD Pro trim expand its talent beyond the pavement. Although introduced in 1995, this overview mainly covers the second (2005-2014) and third (2015-2023) generations.

The Tacoma shares many components with the 4Runner SUV and is the smaller stablemate of the Toyota Tundra. An all-new Toyota Tacoma redesign (fourth-generation) was introduced for the 2024 model year.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Toyota Tacoma cars for sale.

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Related: Toyota Tacoma Pros And Cons: What To Know When Weighing Your Decision

Key Features

The Toyota Tacoma offers:

• Cab options vary by year—a two-door regular cab, a two- or four-door extended cab, and a four-door crew cab
• Four-cylinder and six-cylinder engine options, four-cylinder Tacoma hybrid and turbo options were added for 2024.
• Manual transmission or automatic transmission
• Rear-wheel drive or part-time four-wheel drive
• Tacoma off road trims and packages

Trims

Tacoma trims include the basic SR, followed by the SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and Limited grades. The hardcore TRD Pro model brings additional off-road capabilities (like Fox shocks) to the Tacoma truck.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

Front-seat space is never an issue with the Tacoma, but the back row can be tight with an extended cab edition. If second-row space is a must, then the Tacoma crew cab is the way to go. Technology depends on the year and trim. Older, more basic Tacomas have the essentials (like air conditioning and a radio), while newer, higher-end editions have touchscreen infotainment systems, advanced driver aids, and premium audio. Tacoma functionality is limited only by the size of the cargo beds and payload restrictions.

How It Drives

The V6 supplies strong acceleration in the Tacoma, while the base four-cylinder engine will leave drivers wanting more. The quicker 2024 Tacoma is another matter, as four-cylinder power (turbo or hybrid) is the only option.

Safety

Crash testing ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) are inconsistent among different Tacoma model years. Overall rankings range from four to five stars (good to great). However, some scores drop to a sub-par three-star ranking for specific safety assessments.

Reviews

Toyota Tacoma reviews via Kelley Blue Book differ by generation. Owners of the second generation give their Tacoma trucks a 4.7 out of 5.0 average rating, with solid praise for reliability, quality, and value. However, third-generation owners are less generous, rating these Tacomas 4.0. Concerns include comfort and performance. There are no reviews available for the fourth-generation Tacoma.

Learn More: Here Are The Toyota Tacoma Years To Avoid

FAQs

Are 4x4 Tacomas reliable?

The Tacoma reflects Toyota’s reputation for dependability and longevity, even for models equipped with 4WD meant for off-road use. However, any used Toyota Tacoma should undergo a thorough pre-purchase inspection, as no vehicle is always perfect.

How many mpg does a Toyota Tacoma hybrid get?

Fuel economy fluctuates depending on the powertrain, trim, cab configuration, and payload. Owners can expect a range of 15-25 mpg in real-world driving. Hybrid engine mpg is still yet to be determined.

What are the different types of Toyota Tacomas?

Regular cab, extended cab, and crew cab body styles make up Tacoma configurations, alongside bed lengths from 60 to 73 inches. There are also special off-road trims like TRD Sport and TRD Pro. You may also come across names like Toyota Tacoma SR5 (Tacoma SR5), Toyota Tacoma TRD, Tacoma TRD Sport, and Tacoma TRD Pro.

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