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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  Killer Truck - 2006 Toyota Tacoma
  By Bryan - July 14 - 7:56 pm

  I bought a new 06 in January. I am very impressed, it is my first Toyota. It is so smooth and easy to drive on the highway. At low speeds 50-60 mph it gets awesome gas mileage. I turn heads everywhere. It sounds good and performs excellent. I like how the oil filter is mounted on the top of the engine for easy removal. It wakes up when I ask it to.

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  Great Truck - 2001 Toyota Tacoma
  By Mike - July 12 - 12:03 pm

  Awesome truck, no problems at all. Bought it with 130,000 miles on it and it runs like new. Has the rear locking differential which makes a huge difference on snow and ice (not a substitute for 4x4 though). Have around 300 pounds in the bed - havent had to worry about getting stuck in the snow yet. Its a handsome looking truck. Well designed on the exterior. The interior has a few problems, most notably being the location of the clock. The seat belts dont always retract, but thats not a big deal. Gas mileage is about 17 mpg, maybe a little more. Great truck though. It is 2wd but is still a very capable truck.

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  Amazing Truck Right From The Start - 2017 Toyota Tacoma
  By PaulDnCali - July 4 - 11:03 pm

  Most Tacoma owners add aftermarket modifications to their trucks; I will be one of this majority. However, without these modifications, this truck is a comfortable beast right off the lot. It has power, stamina, just enough clearance to get you through many obstacles, and great looks. I do wish however that Toyota would have given more luxurious options (for example: interior with brown leather seats and trim in more than just the Limited model). I am so far very happy with my new Taco and believe I will continue to be happy for many years with it. In the first 1000 miles of driving, Ive already taken this truck through the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California twice with no complaints and I plan on many back road / off road adventures through the years.

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  No More Fords For Me - 2009 Toyota Tacoma
  By Randy - July 2 - 8:13 am

  After almost buying a 2009 F-150 4.6L, I decided upon the Tacoma. I was leery about the 150s fuel mileage, and checked many Tacoma Forums for their mileage assessments. That being said, I have NO regrets at all. The Tacoma, to me, rides like a car with the benefit of a truck. I owned two Ford Rangers previous to this purchase, and the difference is night and day. Interior is superb and luxurious compared to the Rangers plain design. Seats are more comfortable but the seats are lower, which is the only dislike I have about this vehicle. Id much prefer to sit up a bit higher. I feel a bit like driving a Miata with my legs out rather than in a normal sitting position.

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  a girl who loves her truck! - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Mija - June 30 - 11:13 pm

  I previously owned a Toyota Corolla Type S and I felt it was time to upgrade to something more my style and the new Tacoma if a perfect fit for me. Although it isnt as fuel efficient as my old car but over all it is is pretty good for a truck. It has a smooth ride on any terrain and it just an over all great machine to drive. I LOVE IT!

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  Great Overall Truck!! - 2004 Toyota Tacoma
  By Dan - June 30 - 1:40 am

  Have had this truck for nearly 2 years and just hit over 25K miles and it still runs perfectly. Ive taken it all across Florida down to Key West 4 times from Gainesville. It can be a little uncomfortable after hours of driving, but it is a truck and not a luxury car. I get pretty good gas mileage 19-20 in the city and 22-23 on highway. It is perfect for someone who wants the versatility of a SUV and the drive of a car. I put the tonneau cover on and it makes it a giant waterproof, locked trunk with an increase in gas mileage. Once or twice the truck took a while to turn over when I started her up, but it hasnt been a problem. I wish the turning radius were better for a compact truck.

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  Reliable Small Truck - 2000 Toyota Tacoma
  By isotope200mev@msn.com - June 29 - 3:09 pm

  Purchased this vehicle new in 2000. 15 years later I only have 119,700 miles on the vehicle and plan to drive it for at least another 100,000 miles. Very reliable, performs well in mud and snow, high clearance....good overall off-road vehicle. Just replaced the front and rear struts/shocks (original equipment lasted close to 120K miles, not bad!). In addition to routine preventive maintenance, I have replaced the tires 2x and the battery 3x. I have been tracking my fuel economy since I purchased the vehicle and have received a15 year average of 21.43 mpg. Interior space is lacking (did not purchase the extended cab), however, I did put a camper shell on the bed. This is a sharp looking small truck and is fun to drive. Toyota reliability is outstanding!

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  TRD Rocks - 2004 Toyota Tacoma
  By johnny_sarcasm - June 26 - 7:30 pm

  Ive done every type of wheeling that you can do, and this thing stock performs better offroad than anything (other than a jeep rubicon). Slight dash rattle but a TSB is available.

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  Toyota Tacoma 2010 Bought New - 2010 Toyota Tacoma
  By blipnick - June 24 - 12:29 am

  Problems: - Uncomfortable Seats - Uneven Pedals (clutch pedal is higher than the others) , foot is trapped between top of clutch pedal and underside of dash when releasing clutch (wearing workboots, 6 Ft. tall driver) - Stereo system is weak. Use of Aux. input requires turning volume up full. - Gas mileage is poor (25 MPG highway). - Stock rims rusting after 6 months. - 4 wheel drive switch not illuminated. - Requires multiple turn overs to start.

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  Nothing Beats Toyota, NOTHING! - 2007 Toyota Tacoma
  By Jason N - June 23 - 10:00 am

  This is my 2nd Toyota, and again I am IMPRESSED. This truck has more than enough pwr to do all I need. I have used it pulling boats, and other cars/trucks as well. The V6 never missed a beat. The 4wd is more than capable of handling anything I have thrown at it, snow, mud, rocks, anything. My mpg has suffered since the induction of ethanol, but whose hasnt? To the reviewer with the overhead compass problem, its just a resistor that needs re-soldered, you can fix it yourself for free in less than 5 minutes, I have done it to mine. I love this truck and am so glad I choose it over another full size. It does it all, plus the pwr outlet in the bed has proved beneficial. Overall best in class!