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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  Expected better - 2006 Toyota Tacoma
  By Scotsman - January 18 - 11:10 pm

  I got out of a big truck (Titan) and into a little truck (Tacoma) to better fit into my garage. What a mistake. It turned out to be one of the most uncomfortable vehicles I have ever owned. The drivers seat was like sitting in a hammock with my rear end sitting in a depression and my thighs being elevated. Not good for extended drives. The back seat was not overly comfortable according to my wife. Fuel economy was not impressive, 17.5-18 mpg. Paint started out looking really nice, but ended up being very susceptible to chips and scratches. The steering was very vague, with very little road feel, and tended to wander. Soft suspension with any kind of a load. Lots of road noise.

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  Retired ASE Auto & Truck Master Tech - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By K. R. Coleman - January 18 - 1:13 am

  One hard working truck. All ways carries 1/4 ton Plus of emerg equip + supplies Fitted with RAIDER fiber glass canopy. Regularlly hauls a 6,000 lb hydraulic dump trailer. I contract out to the Forest service for supply hauls into the Idaho back country. During hunting season I made daily trips from 1800ft el to 5,000- 7000ft el. on back country narrow rough dirt roads. So far I have had no repairs needed. The 4X4 system with full time rear limited slip has not failed me yet. The V6 with the 5spd Auto is excellent at handling loads on steep down hill tracks just use it like a stick, its better then a stick! I am actually getting 17-21 mpg. Does every thing Toyota claimed.

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  Tacoma Transmission Problems - 2009 Toyota Tacoma
  By PreRunner - January 17 - 9:46 am

  I purchased a new 2009 Tacoma in May of 2009. After purchasing, I began to notice significant transmission slippage when slowing to below 10 mph and then accelerating. I googled Toyota transmission problem and discovered many other Tacoma owners have the same problem. The dealership has been sympathetic, especially after they test drove my Tacoma and then discovered that every Tacoma on their lot had the same problem. They have told me that Toyota is working on a software "patch" to solve the problem. Please do not buy a Tacoma until this problem is resolved. It is dangerous to drive with this problem.

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  Best on the Road - 2009 Toyota Tacoma
  By Danny - January 16 - 4:56 am

  The best small truck with a big truck feel. Plenty of power for off road work towing welders etc. Not cheap, but great buy.

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  56K miles down, 944K to go! - 2008 Toyota Tacoma
  By Tango6 - January 13 - 11:16 am

  Yes I do expect a million miles out of this truck. I bought it just before I retired from the Army. I used it in the field transporting troops and gear, daily driving around town, and hauling a lot of gear across the country. I change my own oil every 5K miles(Toyota filter & Mobil 1). Ive added a K&N air filter and a tri-fold toneau cover. Took a trip up to New Mexico and checked the mileage. I got 24.8 mpg. This included highway & city driving as well as a lot of hills. The truck is very comfortable for cross country trips. In addition to changing my own oil, I change my own spark plugs. Maintenance on this truck is easy due in part to accessibility. It also has tons of great storage!

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  Family Heirloom - 1995 Toyota Tacoma
  By Bobby Joe - January 13 - 8:43 am

  I love my truck! I bought it new when my son was 3 years old, he will get his drivers license in 2 months and will become the new proud owner. Everything is still in good condition with this truck, its a little scratched but no engine work whatsoever. I had some brake problems years ago, that is the extent of its repair history. Very reliable, highly recommended.

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  SUV vs Truck - 2004 Toyota Tacoma
  By Ex-Carwidow - January 12 - 10:00 am

  I traded my 2003 4 Runner in for a 2004 Tacoma figuring it would give me more room for moving a long distance. It was a reliable vehicle (all Toyotas are) I was concerned it being a 4 cyl. but that truck moved and pulled a trailer like nothing. The ride was a ruff ride and the cab is very small. If you are over 56" you will be cramped. Miles to the gallon where not a good as expected. I missed the luxury and went back to a SUV, not Toyota, so I have my fingers crossed. Toyota does make a reliable vehicle!

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  Made the Right Decision - 2009 Toyota Tacoma
  By DarkSide - January 11 - 2:20 am

  The wife and I were going back and forth between the Tacoma and Nissan Frontier. We finally decided on the Tacoma after seeing the 2009 model standard feature upgrades. We purchased the Timberland Green, 4x4, Double Cab, Long bed with the SR5 package. The only one of its kind currently in the SF Bay Area. The truck is fun to drive and nice to look at. A major improvement over our last truck, 1998 Dodge Dakota.

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  Good looking truck not cost effective - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By IT_guru - January 10 - 9:56 pm

  Exterior design makes it a good looking truck. I was complimented several times on its design. Fun to drive on weekends but looks are deceiving. It claims 18/22 but it was more like 16/20 with the 4x4 TRD. The bilstein shocks made for a hard drive. Clutch pedal replaced with only 9000 miles after making squeaking sounds. Extended cab rather cramped for adults but adequate for children. Expensive to maintain especially with the suggested 3000 miles oil change along with dealers "suggested" preventative repairs.

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  My Best Truck Yet! - 2000 Toyota Tacoma
  By jazzbone - January 9 - 2:00 am

  I bought this under the premise that these vehicles are excellent and reliable. So far, all of the accolades seem to hold true. The ride is very truck like but the seat is comfy for my 6 250Lb frame. The cab could use more room, but is sufficient. Econmy is good for the roads I. I avg 19-20 on these roads, and get near 25 mpg on the valley flats. 4WD is exc and treads excellent in deep snow and very good on ice. The motor purrs and the 5 sp trans shifts smoothly. Im real happy with this truck, this lil Tacoma is doing more than I expected.