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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  1995 Tacoma 4WD Xtra Cab V6 - 1995 Toyota Tacoma
  By Bobs95 - March 1 - 8:20 pm

  I have 135K on this truck and its still going very strong. I have cheated - I have always used Amsoil pure synthetic lubes, oil and air filters, so low wear is to be expected. But the fact that Ive had very few other components fail is testimony to a quality design and the famous Toyota reliability. Ive been 4-wheeling and camping and it goes everywhere I need it to. Recently I bought a 4000 pound travel trailer and will likely step up to the V8 Tundra since this trailer is close to the limit of this Tacomas towing capacity (5000 lbs). But it does tow economically - we just got back from a camping trip up into the high Sierras (6500 feet) and got 15 MPG on the trip towing the trailer.

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  Back to square one! - 2016 Toyota Tacoma
  By Tom Anthony - February 28 - 6:34 am

  After anxiously awaiting for the much talked about ( hyped) new Tacoma, I am so disappointed. First, let me say that I test drove the Limited at two different dealers and all seemed " good to go." I factory ordered one and after waiting 6 weeks, it finally arrived. Thankfully, the dealer where the purchase was made is located about 50 miles from my home. Thankfully because this gave me a chance to experience the " real world" characteristics of this truck over a longer period of time and greater driving distance rather than merely a short " test" drive. I am in complete agreement with those reviews which describe the constant shifting of the transmission while attempting to garner enough power from the engine to satisfy its needs. Any light load or slight acceleration causes this shifting action - very disturbing. I think the " acclaimed" Atkinson engine, which really only a resembles a true Atkinson cycle design slightly, is too underpowered. Also,no power front seats is a "no no." They are very uncomfortable. Well, rather than ramble on and on, I will close with two pieces of good news: 1. I loved the rest of the truck. All the bells and whistles are great. 2. My dealer has three day return policy. I brought the truck back within that time frame and the purchase price was refunded to me. Now I will look more closely at the Colorado or wait to see what 2017 brings. Toyota are you listening?

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  4WD 4 Door TRD TOY! - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Jerm - February 24 - 7:03 pm

  This is one awesome Taco! Been driving this now for 2 months, it is a perfect truck. I struggled with the decision of a full size truck vs midsize. The new Tacoma is a perfect blend of fullsize function and midsize fun. I didnt want a truck that drove like a truck (long brake distance, funky cornering, etc) This Truck stops quickly and is responsive in cornering, plus it fits in my garage! One thing important to note, with the Off Road package, it is a bit bumpy, but again this isnt a granny sedan! The truck is great, very powerful, excellent acceleration off the line. And finally I love the fact I wont have to worry about major problems.... its a Toyota!

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  Manual Clutch Wore Out at 6000 Miles! - 2013 Toyota Tacoma
  By driver882 - February 21 - 2:20 pm

  My 2013 Takoma, purchased new 3 months ago, has 6250 miles on it. The dealer (Ourisman Chantilly Toyota) tells me that the clutch is completely worn down. I have driven manuals for years and am certainly not hard on the clutch, nor do I "ride" the clutch. It is hard to rebut the conclusion that this is somehow my fault and the clutch is excluded from every warranty, even the fancy "Auto4Life" service contract and the "Carefree Car Protection Service Contract". The repair will cost more than $2,000. I submit that this is a mechanical problem reflective of the truck.

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  Toyota Tacoma - 2006 Toyota Tacoma
  By ned5178 - February 21 - 11:43 am

  This truck has been a glory whether driving in the snow or on drive asphalt. The truck handles like no other Ive driven (just in case your wondering Ive driven ford, chevy, mazda and GMC). It also does very well for gas for a 4.0 liter engine. This is a phenomenal truck.

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  This Truck Is Awesome! - 2000 Toyota Tacoma
  By David Habermehl - February 20 - 10:00 am

  I love my Toyota PreRunner! This truck has the off road capabilities of any 4x4, but without the maintenance of 4wd. The 190 hp V6 is gutsy and pulls my boat with no problems and the automatic tranny shifts smooth through all gears. The bed carries both my bikes and any equipment I need for camping. Extended cab is a must and can really fit 4 passengers for short trips.

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  A few minor complaints - 1999 Toyota Tacoma
  By T0pS1aker - February 20 - 10:00 am

  Well, for starters, the truck hasnt let me down yet [knock on wood]! I love the styling on the exterior, although the interior can use a little work. The major complaint is the jerk that happens when you let go off the brake sometimes. I havent figured out whether it is related to transmission (my best guess), or the breaks. The dealer says there is nothing wrong. The gear shifter also moves slightly by itself when I drive (voodoo, I suppose). Road noise can be a bit of a problem, but thats expected with the tires that big. Positives: great AC, fine handling, superb off-road capabilities, lots of room for a "compact" truck, rear- locking is always good.

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  A good small truck - 2007 Toyota Tacoma
  By Bill - February 19 - 5:03 pm

  The acceleration for this 4 cyl auto (SR-5) is very good. I had no trouble, without a heavy load, getting on the highway. The top speed I was able to get it to was 95 mph. I like the overall layout of the vehicle with the small storage area under the rear seats and in the cargo area. The seat and steering adjustments made the vehicle very comfortable to ride in and I had no trouble seeing out the vehicle in all directions. The vehicles controls are all easy to get to and the radio was simple to operate.

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  New Taco - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By dstolk - February 19 - 1:53 am

  This model should sell well for Toyota! I bought this truck to replace an aging 95 Montero.

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  Gotta Love It - 2004 Toyota Tacoma
  By Jim Thorpe - February 18 - 5:13 am

  Awesome. Living in the Pocono Mtns of PA this truck goes anywhere anytime and its a blast to drive on the winding back roads. Bought it to get me to the trout streams and ski slopes which it does just great. However, Ive driven it to SC repeatedly with no complaints and used it to build a couple brick patios out back. It hauled repeated loads of brick, gravel, and sand like a mule. No complaints about the 24 MPG for a truck either. Quicker out of the hole would be nice, but thats a compromise I knew I was making for the gas mileage when I bought it. I am an outdoorsman and "do it yourselfer" so this vehicle is ideally suited to my lifestyle.