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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  Kick A$$ - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By Sparky451 - January 16 - 10:00 am

  Power great, Traded in an Explorer with a V8 and the Tacoma feels like its got more get up and go. Got the SR5 w/chrome and TRD in white. Looks real sharp.

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  Couldnt be happier - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By bill b - January 16 - 10:00 am

  Paid $15.4 K. AC Chrome SR5 pkg. 5 speed manual. 4 cylinder totally fine for me, even with a load. I drive very conservatively, and get an honest 32 mpg. I figure it every tank. Expect it may drop some during winter months. Solid feel. Good handling for a truck. Love the size, nice low bed. I wouldnt own a 4x4, at least for my current needs.

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  Poor Gas Mileage - 2007 Toyota Tacoma
  By J. Matthews - January 15 - 12:06 pm

  The drive and ride on this vehicle is very good. The transmission shifts good and is smooth in shifting. The brakes seem to be very responsive and firm. After the fact of purchase I found out that the plugs needed to be changed every 15000 miles. I really find that unacceptable. I changed them and restored the gas mileage back in the 18-20 mpg range. The Tacoma needs the timing chain changed out at 100000 miles. I find that unacceptable. I bought this vehicle for low maintenance costs. I dont think this will happen.

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  Reliable, Reliable, Reliable - 1999 Toyota Tacoma
  By keith - January 13 - 4:03 am

  SR5 V-6 4x4 5 spd - all I have done to this truck is oil, front brakes, plugs, tires, shocks and service tranny and transfer case. Water pump at 74k under extend warranty and timing belt at 100k ($300 not bad for 100k of driving). Mileage is 20.5-21 overall. Best mileage was 23 highway cruising at 65 (I run 31x10.50 Michelins). The interior is on par with a 99. A/C is extemely cold. I find the seats to be comfortable (Im 62). If you drive it and maintain it the way it was meant to be driven then you will have no problems with this vehicle.

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  excitement - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By Supralover - January 10 - 10:00 am

  Very very versatile whether offroading, moving big objects or just to have fun i think its the best reliable truck on the market today

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  Hard Ride - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By Joe Zebar - January 10 - 10:00 am

  I drove a 1990 Toyota SR for 10 years & my son is still driving it at 201,000 Mi. I never thought that it had a stiff ride. My 2002 tocoma with the off road package rides very hard and stiff. You will feel every bump in a jarring manner. This is the only complaint I have. The V6 is a little weak at 190HP but provides adequate acceleration. The front seats could be a little longer for more leg support. Fit & finish is excellent. Basicly satisfied with the truck. Ps No recalls & have not been back to the dealer for anything.

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  Doublecab 4x4 TRD off road limited - 2004 Toyota Tacoma
  By Oats - January 10 - 10:00 am

  My fourth Toyota 4x4 truck great vehicles

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  dont do it!!! - 2016 Toyota Tacoma
  By Jr - January 9 - 9:42 pm

  I just got this truck and only has 1500 miles on it. I like the interior and technology. I actually like everything about the truck except engine/transmission combo. The engine is pretty good in ECT mode but the problem is you have to hit that button every time you start it. The transmission is by far the worst i have driven in the 24 vehicles i have owned. I am cruising at 55mph on flat ground and the truck is shifting up and down at a steady speed as it doesnt know what gear its supposed to be in. Completely takes away the enjoyment in driving it. In the last 15 years i have only bought toyotas as i cant believe i am saying this, this will be my last one for awhile and Im going to open a case with Toyota to try and get my money back. Its really too bad cause i really wanted to like this truck since i spent the money on it. The good thing is i only make mistakes once.

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  My truck is going to run forever - 1999 Toyota Tacoma
  By toys99 - January 9 - 4:36 pm

  I currently have 131000 miles on my truck all I have done is oil changes. Truck runs like a top. Yeah, the seats are not good, but hey its a truck.

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  31 years with 2 Tacomas - 2002 Toyota Tacoma
  By Ed Chacon - January 8 - 1:29 pm

  86 extra cab 14 years no major problems ...2002 4door still runs great no problems.......Bought both new and both had normal wear and tear. Change oil regularly and treat it like itll be there for 15 + years and it will.