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:

• 

  After much research - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Doug - February 12 - 4:30 am

  First, let me say that I have done a great deal of research of this truck and it was worth it. I took a long weekend trip after purchasing it and the ride was not only smooth, but comfortable. Toyota designers came up with a very ergonomical interior with loads of hidden space for extras. The visibility for the drive is great once you get used to the length of the hood and bed.(It took me about a good week!) A suprise to me was the acceleration. It is so quiet that you do not realize that you accelerated until you look down and see the speedometer. Overall, this is a great truck.

• 

  Tacoma Rules! - 2004 Toyota Tacoma
  By johnof - February 11 - 10:00 am

  Great design in a powerful package. The 4 doors are perfect for the kids -- surprizingly spacious in the rear compared to the 2-door extended cab versions. No mechanical problems in almost a year. Mileage not bad for a 3.4 liter V6 with plenty of towing power.

• 

  love it - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By darbytee - February 9 - 2:00 am

  I got rid of a Ford F-150 4x4 to get this and I havent regretted it for one minute. i have plenty of space, plenty of power, and Im getting about 20 mpg, which I never even approached in the Ford. The smaller bed took a little getting used to, but with the help of tiedown straps I regularly carry 4x8 sheets of plywood with no problem. I would recommend this truck without hesitation.

• 

  Down sized and happy - 2007 Toyota Tacoma
  By NC Administrator - February 8 - 8:20 pm

  Great truck, have owned several full size Silverados and am very satisfied with Toyota Tacoma.

• 

  nice truck/unconfortable pedals too high - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By Azael - February 7 - 10:00 am

  pedals too high make a little unconfortable to drive,other than that is good truck(trusted "toyota" owner)

• 

  Another Tacoma - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By frank452661 - February 7 - 8:06 am

  This truck rides better, handles better, than my last (96 with 137,000- no problems). I have the 4cyl, manual, extended, SR5 package, etc. Still Low miles, but I got 28.4 mpg on a recent 200 mile trip. I dont pull or haul much, ATV on a trailer, but this 4cyl has all the power I need, with reasonably good acceleration, and great gas mileage.

• 

  Pound for Pound; Best Truck in the World - 2000 Toyota Tacoma
  By AlexJV - February 6 - 2:10 am

  Bought it as a Certified Vehicle with about 46K miles on it. The Certified Power Train warranty and Roadside Assistance Program for 7Yrs/100,000 was an influential factor. The ability to purchase a Matching Extended Service Plan for less than on a new one was the clincher. Only problems were the Bushings in the Rack, and Clutch Master Cylinder; both covered by the Extended Service Plan. New front brakes about 9 months ago. Havent changed the rear brakes or shocks, and I take it Off-Road! This truck is just about Bullet-Proof and I will likely drive it to 400K+!

• 

  One Month of driving! - 2016 Toyota Tacoma
  By Matt - February 3 - 2:17 pm

  People are saying a lot of stuff about the Auto trans shifting all the time and thats not the case with mine. I live and commute in and around Seattle Wa. We have a lot of steep hills around and I dont have problem with the tranny it all. On the freeways I am getting 28-30 MPGs and cant believe it. In town traffic driving I get 16-18 thats great in my book too. Its a large filling truck to Drive but after a week of driving its not a big deal. I owned a 1999 TRD 4x4 and a 2008 TRD 4x4 double cab. I loved both of those truck but I really like this one.

• 

  Upgraded 03 for 08 - 2008 Toyota Tacoma
  By MN TACO - February 3 - 6:50 am

  This is my second Tacoma DC in a row, and I thought my first one 2003 was great! The new model seems nicer in every respect. First the engine sounds different and has a lot more power. The 5 speed auto transmission is very smooth and the new gear shifter is nice because you can between drive to 4th to 3rd with no hassle, fun to play with in rush hour. The ride quality is car like. The new interior looks more refined. I think the leg room between the front and back seats is smaller than it was on my 03 DC, but that could be the front seats go back farther? Lots more storage under and behind the back seat is nice. I’m not sure why all trucks don’t come with auto up/down for all windows.

• 

  2006 Toyota Tacoma SR5 4x4 2.7L - 2006 Toyota Tacoma
  By SR5 - February 2 - 10:20 pm

  It took a while to get used to the trucks dimensions. Steering is very responsive. Steering seemed quite free on freeway, like truck wasnt LOCKED into lane. Ride is smooth, great shocks. Brakes are light, not sensitive. Quite a bit of outside noise even with windows up. Can be difficult at times to see cars in blindspots. Great on rough or dirt-roads. Went deep into the forest, made my own road. Like I listed above, 86,000 miles on an 06 Tacoma. Im on the same brakes, plugs, clutch, and feel I can reach 100,000 b4 any changes. Needed new set of tires at 60k and a wheel alignment. Got rear ended right rear corner, pretty hard, things did not shatter just bent (STRONG) no frame damage.