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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  Just what I expected by Toyota. - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Ric Larsen - November 24 - 8:06 am

  Absolutely the best buy I have made with a vehicle. Only bad point...the windshield isnt rock proof. My truck has performed flawlessly and I look forward to my next year with it. Thank you Toyota!

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  Not what I was expecting - 2007 Toyota Tacoma
  By Glenn - November 23 - 10:00 am

  I bought the truck 3 years ago and am looking forward to getting rid of it as soon as I can. The engine makes all kinds of noise and pings horribly on ethanol gas. The dealer tells me there is nothing they can about either one. I logged a complaint with Toyota about the pinging and never heard back from them. The dealer told me to use premium ethanol gas, but it still pings. I have to go miles out of my way to get ethanol free gas and I am getting sick of it. No MP3 adapter and the CD player will not play MP3 discs; how cheap. Transmission shifts all the time and steering wheel shimmy has never been fixed. I expected far more out of this vehicle. It is the last Toyota I will ever buy.

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  Rough Rider - 2000 Toyota Tacoma
  By lcartwright - November 22 - 4:56 pm

  I found that my Truck can take a lot of rough riding, but it tends to drive rocky on paved roads too. Its only fault is lack of balance, which can be expected from a high profile vehichle. Otherwise, I love it!

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  my toy truck - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By gpzsteve - November 19 - 2:00 am

  truk handles very well and runs great.i wish it got better gas mileage

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  Nice Truck - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By Dan Moore - November 19 - 2:00 am

  All in all it is a great truck. Everything works and it has a good feel.

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  Good Truck - 2006 Toyota Tacoma
  By Kdorwin - November 18 - 4:13 pm

  Excellent quality, fun to drive, improves with K&N cold air intake

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  Its not a Tundra - 2008 Toyota Tacoma
  By Truckman666 - November 16 - 6:36 pm

  I traded in a 2004 Tundra access cab 2wd. I wanted a 4 WD. The new Tundras are too big so I decided on the Tacoma Double cab with Sports package to get the upgraded interior. That upgrade makes for a firmer ride on bumps but rides great on smooth road. It had very quick steering. The seat is a little low. Not as smooth as the 04 Tundra but that should improve. Gas mileage seems better so far. Great looking truck. I get lots of compliments. As years go by I hope it will be refined to the point of the Tundras prior to the new large one.

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  97 Tacoma 4x4, 2.7L - 1997 Toyota Tacoma
  By knut - November 14 - 10:00 am

  This truck is a great value. Its tough, dependable, reliable, and considering these trucks are "Built to last" many years, the slightly higher price is well worth it. Very low and easy maintenance- have owned since new (currently 135K mi), mainly just change oil, add gas, and drive!!. The only repairs of concern were A/C and a new fuel injector. The 4cyl. manual is suprisingly powerful, the hauling capacity is "at least" 1/2 ton, and the 4x4 system is, from what Ive heard...superior to all others. Right now for small trucks, the Tacoma is the only one Id consider.

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  Great Toyota - 2001 Toyota Tacoma
  By cst010 - November 12 - 12:10 am

  Purchased new and now have over 170,000 miles. Dealer maintained with the largest expense being a catalytic converted replacement. No other issues. Have not experienced the dash rattle others have spoken about. Is a great truck and hope to get another 170,000 miles out of it. I have always had great experiences with the dealer maintenance departments.

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  My Small Truck - 2004 Toyota Tacoma
  By cromanxx - November 11 - 6:30 am

  I use my truck for pleasure and work. I pull a 3 ton dump trailer with no problem. It handles well in snow but you must engage 4 wheel drive. I dont go off road, but the ride is fine considering its a truck. Ive filled the bed with pavers & cement and the truck didnt flinch. Its a reliable and dependable vehicle. I only take it to the dealer for service. I put a cap on the bed and it looks great!