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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  Fun to drive - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By F014tomcat - March 16 - 10:00 am

  7,000 miles on it with only one minor problem. A hose to the coolant came loose, and I lost the cooant, but they fixed it. TRD package is great. Off roading is a breeze with the locking differential. Average mpg is 16-17.5, not great. Clock is in horrible position. Interior does look a bit cheap. I too have a rattle, that I cannot find. A little pricey, but so far worth the money. I love driving it.

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  Fine vehicle - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By bob brandis - March 13 - 9:13 am

  25,000... no problems, but did not have towing electrical harness as described in manual, had to purchase for 90 dollars and was difficult to install at fuse box. Towed 3,500 gross lb trailer loaded to max 800 miles no problems. Plenty of power, handles great and is comfortable. Compared to my 2002, greatly improved is a/c and handling/ride. Alarm is not too sensitive as in 2002. Size is nice midsize, has all I need and works well. A little wind noise, but overall is quiet. Its a keeper.

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  Tuff Yoda - 1996 Toyota Tacoma
  By MBW - March 6 - 9:33 am

  Wow, this has been the best vehicle i have ever owned. I feel it has a very attractive body style compared to other small trucks, and I can overtake every small truck I race (V-6). I have gone on multiple road trips across the US with no problems. This truck has NEVER left me stranded. I would certainly buy another one, however gas is getting a little expensive. Overall, a darn good buy!

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  Still the best and only truck to drive - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Mrclean - March 5 - 9:13 pm

  its much bigger then the older models and has a lot more horse power the seats are very comfortable almost like a reclining chair and it feels solid unlike the older models

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  Great Mid-Size Pickup - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Bob Steele - March 3 - 9:56 am

  Have owned Toyota vehicles for approximately 25-years, including a 1993 Extended Cab Pickup, which was sold to purchase a 2003 Extended Cab Tacoma which was traded in for the 2005 Access Cab Tacoma. What a Truck.... Rides like a Camry with the heavy suspension feel of a truck. Cannot complain about anything to date. New trnasmission is very smooth. Excellent Radio/CD Standard Sound System. The bed is awesome...what an engineering design for a pickup truck.

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  Best Truck for the Money - 1999 Toyota Tacoma
  By Pete Philippis - March 2 - 10:00 am

  I have 110,000 miles on this truck original owner. Ive done nothing except oil change, tires, and changed the front brakes (original clutch). Rock Solid and I do not drive or treat this truck kindly. It has many dents and dings but it gets me from point A to B without ever letting me down. Highly recommend. F150 cant touch this truck.

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  Major Driveline Problems, wont buy another, Toyota offering arbitration - 2012 Toyota Tacoma
  By 12tacoowner - March 2 - 12:31 am

  I have a 2012 double cab v6 TRD Off-Road, 100% stock. Lemon?? My first Toyota. Bought new from dealer out of state, arrived by transporter and immediately had major drive line vibration. Been to local dealer 3x; in contact with Toyota USA because the dealers cant fix. Read up on this at TacomaWorld, there are many 2012s with this prob, sad. If you must buy, test drive from a dead stop through 30mph, up hill if possible. Putting a load on it makes the prob especially noticeable if its there at all. Toyota modern day quality is sub-par, unfortunately theyre the only mid-size truck with a v6, 4x4, double cab w/ manual trans option. btw, manual trans is made by Aisin = not goo

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  Truck of the year - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Superman_54 - March 1 - 2:43 pm

  This truck is awesome. I get so many compliments of the truck and the color I chose which is speedway blue. It stands out in a crowd of all types of vehicles and it has the power to pass all of them. Gas mileage is pretty bad though. It handles quite well off road with its TRD suspension and fairly high stock ground clearance. It beats all of its competition in most categories. and its a Toyota.

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  Suspension Problems - 2010 Toyota Tacoma
  By john1961 - March 1 - 1:32 pm

  I am very disappointed with the weak suspension caused by poor design. This is my 3rd Toyota truck and after poor response from Toyota Canada probably my last. For the sake of $350.00 for a solution they are willing to lose a longtime loyal client. If anyone has had success with Toyota to correct the problem I would like to know. Toyota were once known for their quality and durability but now I feel its all about money

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  This truck saved my life - 2009 Toyota Tacoma
  By jamie75 - February 28 - 5:16 pm

  First off I loved this truck for the 6 weeks I had it. Gas mileage was about 20 mixed city/hwy. The seats made my low back feel better than my couch at home. Last week a guy ran a light and I t-boned him at full speed. The truck is a total loss but other than neck and back pain I walked away. I highly recommend this truck and as soon as the insurance works it out Ill buy another one.