Overview & Reviews

Since its introduction in 1995, the Toyota Tacoma has been a mainstay of the compact and midsize pickup segments. The original Tacoma fell into the compact category, while the second-generation truck's 2005 debut marked the transition to midsize dimensions. Typical advantages to a new or used Tacoma include a variety of body styles to choose from, useful off-road abilities, strong resale value and a better than average reputation for reliability.

Downsides are few. Even when modestly appointed, this Toyota often costs more than competing trucks and prices are high on the used market as well. In addition, taller drivers might feel cramped inside the first-generation Tacoma's compact cab. Otherwise, the Toyota Tacoma is a very capable pickup that's highly recommended for nearly all truck shoppers.

User Reviews:

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  Tacoma SR best for the price - 2016 Toyota Tacoma
  By Chuck - August 16 - 7:46 am

  I have owned this truck for 8 months I find that the overall construction is excellent, styling is great. The main concerns I have is that I got the 4- cylinder and it is under-powered for this truck,even with the 5-speed manual transmission.The other thing is the squeaky clutch pedal. I would buy another Tacoma in the future and would still get the SR or SR5 but with the 6-cylinder and 6-speed manual transmission.

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  Not Worth the Money - 2009 Toyota Tacoma
  By Bob - August 15 - 11:56 am

  Bought the SR5 4 cyl access cab in Jan 2009. Hated to part with my 2001 at the time, now Im really sorry I did. The 2009 Tacoma has the worst wind noise coming from the back. The seats are too low and not comfortable. Tilt wheel, what tilt wheel. It moves about an 1/2" up and 1/2" in and out. The windshield is so low it’s almost a problem seeing out. All around visibility to the outside seems less than my ‘01.The radio does not pick up stations like my ‘01 did. I’ve never owned anything but Toyotas, and I expected this truck to be nothing less than my previous trucks. I was wrong. The more I drive it the more I dislike it. This truck will be gone next year. PLEASE BRING BACK THE 2001 STYLE.

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  Reliable Tacoma - 1997 Toyota Tacoma
  By Dave - August 13 - 2:56 am

  I bought this truck with 58K and now have 103,000. I have the 5sp manual tranny. Ive not done anything but regular maintenance. I average 28mpg. Not real comfortable over long trips but very reliable and gets the job done. I wouldnt trade this for a new one.

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  My first foreign - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Kimmy - August 9 - 7:10 pm

  I love the new dash, the new bed is really nice, no need to buy a bed liner. Im already getting 17 mpg city driving, it can only get better. Warms up in the matter of minutes. Cant lock my keys in it, the doors wont lock with the key in the ignition. I love it, rides really smooth. Feels like Im in a car.

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  One Dumb Purchase - 2008 Toyota Tacoma
  By flemdog - August 9 - 2:03 pm

  There is no position on the heater/AC controls that will shut off outside air from coming in through the vents, which is a problem if you live in a colder climate as I do. The wind noise overpowers conversation and the radio, the wipers make an irritating “thunk/thunk” noise, and the outside temp/compass indicator is difficult enough to read due to a reflective glare. The seat bolsters are narrow and uncomfortable. Gas & brake pedals are too close.

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  It Gets er Done - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By barney - August 8 - 5:16 pm

  All things considered, its an excellent vehicle. All Ive had to do is the regular maintenance. Ive had no downtime whatsoever (well, except for the one recall but the dealer took care of it and gave me a free loaner). It pulled a U-Haul on my move from Missouri to California with no problem. It drives like a car. Plenty of power with the V6. The steering and the engine are very responsive which is a plus on the California freeways.

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  Third and last Toyota truck - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By Jess01 - August 8 - 2:00 am

  This is my third Toyota truck, all different models, and I have been continually disappointed. Its a fun ride and I feel safe driving it. However, Ive expererience the same problems with all three models. I think 6 years is long enough to work out the kinks. If all youre looking for is a safe, fun rugged vehicle than this is it, but I recommend not upgrading to get all the options as youll be disappointed with quality vs. price tag.

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  QUALITY TRUCK - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By MATERV - August 8 - 2:00 am

  VERY RELIABLE VEHICLE ON AND OFF THE ROAD. MY TACOMA HAS ONLY THE TRD OPTION AND IT DRIVES OFF-ROAD LIKE A FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE, BUT IT IS NOT. I WOULD RECOMMEND THE PRERUNNER, FOR ITS HEIGHT AND EXTERIOR LOOKS.

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  Truck lover - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By toyotafan11 - August 8 - 2:00 am

  I owned a 1986 standard bed Toyota 4x4 4cyl. 5sp for 9 years and had 125,000 miles on it before it was totaled. After that I purchased a 1995 Corrola which had 330,000 miles before tading it in on this 2003 Toyota Tacoma xtra cab, V6, 5 sp. I hope to enjoy this Toyata as much as the other 2. I loved the 86 truck and wanted to own another truck. I would only purchase Toyota because of its dependability. I purchased the truck Nov. 2003 and enjoy it except for the gas mileage.

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  Perfect dad truck! - 2013 Toyota Tacoma
  By rayrn87 - August 3 - 1:37 pm

  I love this truck!! Legendary reliability and resale value is ridiculously high! I have a v6 tx edition pre runner double cab so it has a tough rugged look. Cant even count how many compliments Ive gotten on how badass the truck looks, I had a crewmax tundra and the taco is much easier to maneuver and more comfortable to drive daily, although the interior is smaller, my 2 kids and the wife fit comfortably. My only regret is not getting the 4x4 but Im not much of an offroader. I mainly use the vehicle to drive to work , plenty of stop n go lights but gas mileage is decent and you dont notice the meter move unlike full size trucks.