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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  Relatively perfect - 2006 Toyota Tacoma
  By EXTREMELY Satisfied - February 16 - 4:20 pm

  This is my first new vehicle. I had done a lot of research into the Tacoma and I was very impressed, especially with the test drive. I also did research into competitors. There was no comparison. The Tacoma outperformed them all. I bought the Pre Runner Access Cab SR5 V6 with A/T. It comes with A/C, C/C, P/W, P/L, tow package and a CD player, keyless entry. No extra bells/whistles needed. The V6 is very powerful and very fast, plenty of power for towing. The transmission shifts smoothly and performs well. Road noise is minimal. I have taken it up to the mountains and on a long trip already, no problems. The truck powers up the grades with no trouble and cruises very comfortably. 100% Truck!

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  wish i still had my old 99 taco - 2009 Toyota Tacoma
  By david - February 15 - 9:00 pm

  traded my 99 for this thru the frame recall/buyback and have been very displeased. first didnt get delay wipers with basic package. had radio replaced before 10k kept going off/changing stations. clutch started slipping at 20k miles repaired under warranty. on hot days clutch pedal creaks. leaf springs started making creaking at 10k had new silencer pads installed under warranty. the traction buzzer is VERY annoying if you slide sideways. ice builds up around front output of t-case on wet slushy snowy roads makes bumping under floorboards.

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  One awesome truck!! - 2007 Toyota Tacoma
  By jaggy9 - February 15 - 7:36 pm

  I looked at many different makes in switching back to a truck from cars and SUVs the past 6 years, and the Tacoma was hands down the best. I was looking for a 4 cyl 4x4 that could handle the everyday drive, some off-roading, and some light hauling. This more than meets my needs, and its the best looking one out there! The build quality is amazing. Its one of the most solid feeling vehicles Ive owned (car or truck). The bigger interior in the last redesign is amazing. I went with the Indigo Ink, SR5 package, and tire upgrade. Love the ground clearance and cannot wait to test this out off-road. MPG have been 21.7 for all city driving. Looking forward to many years of driving my Taco!

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  Unlevel truck bed - 2004 Toyota Tacoma
  By flhoss - February 9 - 2:00 am

  After I took my new 2004 Tacoma home I noticed the bed wasnt level (left side over 1/2 inch lower than the right)and took it to Toyota of Puyallup for maintenance. Their first corrective action was to inflate the left rear tire to 34 lbs., instead of 29 lbs.. I wouldnt buy that. A Toyota factory representative "advised that up to 3/4- inch discrepancy in height is acceptable and no adjustments will be made under warranty". Refused to consider defective shocks, springs, assembly, loose or miss aligned u-bolts or noncompatable components. Where has the vaunted Toyota quality gone? Hello Honda!!!!!

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  new driver - 2004 Toyota Tacoma
  By ontariotacomadriver - February 4 - 10:00 am

  Been driving it only 1000 miles, but am very pleased so far. All "jittery ride" comments (from any source) should be overlooked... its a truck... I dont want a truck that rides like a car-- it has an excellent suspension. Engine is strong and gives sufficient acceleration. Tranny shifts smoothly. No worries about handling despite higher profile. Good turning radius.

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  Customer Satisfaction - 2006 Toyota Tacoma
  By David Fernandez - February 1 - 2:13 pm

  Best priced pick up in the market for its exterior and interior design, reliability and performance on the road. It will become the number# 1 selling truck in America!

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  All and More - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By aprzr - January 30 - 9:23 am

  I have not owned any truck or SUV other than a new or used Toyota since the mid-1980s. Not once have any one of them broken down or had to be towed. Each time I buy another one, I like it better than the one before. This Tacoma Sport model is by far superior in looks, comfort, pep, and features than any of the others, which were all good too. Access door/space is the reason I bought this model.

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  Better Than Ever - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Musicman - January 29 - 9:20 pm

  Toyota owner from way back... Very pleased with my new purchase.... I owned a 2002 Toyota Tacoma and there is no comparison. Its like they created an entirely new vehicle. I surprised the folks at toyota didnt create a new model, thats how different this Tacoma is!

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  DISAPPOINTING - 2016 Toyota Tacoma
  By Brian - January 28 - 4:09 am

  I am a bit disappointed in the 2016 Tacoma. Tough to climb into; acceleration is not great in the V-6; the 6-speed is constantly shifting; shifting could be a lot smoother; engine noise is bad; road noise is bad; front seat is way too low and too soft - very uncomfortable and cheap looking; heater is ungodly loud on high. It looks great and rides fairly well. Given all that, Id still take it over any mid-size US truck. But Toyota has a lot of work to do if they want to keep the Tacoma as a best seller.

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  Decent Truck - 2007 Toyota Tacoma
  By Mike - January 27 - 10:26 pm

  Overall its a nice truck. Very comfortable, good power and lots of features. The stock suspension would bottom out with a load (400 lb motorcycle in the bed) but there is a service bulletin out to upgrade the suspension if you actually use it as a truck. Gas mileage could be a little better. I average 16-17 MPG, mixed driving and topped out at 20.