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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  No other truck comes close - 2002 Toyota Tacoma
  By libraryguy85 - July 25 - 9:13 pm

  This truck is the most complete and downright solid truck I have ever owned and probably ever will own. I bought this truck used because I liked the second generation body style better than the new ones, and it has not disappointed in any way. Ive wanted one since I was in high school, back when I drove a 96 Nissan hardbody pickup, and about 8 years later, I had a TRD 4 door in my driveway, ironically almost the same color (Impulse Red Pearl) as the Nissan. I never thought Id find a better truck than my first, but I was wrong. This truck is perfect in every way and never lets me down. It has about 108K on the odometer and many miles to go. Keep up the good work, Toyota!

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  Bury me in my Tacoma! - 1997 Toyota Tacoma
  By jgpaige - July 23 - 11:09 am

  I bought my Tacoma new in December of 1996. I confess that I havent been the most responsible owner regarding regular maintenance and the like. It doesnt seem to matter, though. My Tacoma, now at 198,000 miles, turns over and purrs like a kitten every morning. I have driven it cross-country 7 times and would still have the confidence to do it today at its current mileage. Ive used it for hauling construction debris, towing a loaded U-haul trailer up a mountain, and even fit two men over 6 tall in the regular cab with me. Ive proven it can run on no oil (per my mechanics chagrin) and an empty gas tank. This machine is truly remarkable and, at times, even miraculous.

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  2016 Tacoma TRD Off Road Dbl Cab Long Bed - 2016 Toyota Tacoma
  By Kevin Alexander - July 23 - 6:52 am

  Great truck! Great drivability with excellent handling on and off road, which is quite a balance to strike! This is NOT a particularly high tech or fancy truck. For example Tacomas have never had power seats at ANY trim level. No Remote start, even as an option, by keychain or LTE via app, like competitors. I do feel like it should either have a little more torque and horsepower OR slightly better fuel economy, but not terrible. Having made those small gripes, I love this truck for dozens of other reasons! It is supremely capable off road and a joy to drive.

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  Tacoma review - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By jhartt - July 22 - 6:13 pm

  Its a very practical vehicle for light efficient use and is extremely reliable.

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  this aint no cupcake - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By jfalbanese - July 21 - 1:30 pm

  Traded my 04 tacoma in for this bad boy. Totally redesigned for 05. Interior is luxurious, and huge. Exterior is a real head turner. Love the longer bed, looks great with the toyota aluminum tool box. 4.0 litre is a breath of fresh air, compared to the gutless 3.3 litre from last year. Ive only driven it a few hundred miles, but cant find a negative thing to say about it

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  "A Great Truck" Revisited-2 Months Later - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Nick - July 19 - 4:13 pm

  I reviewed this on 12/24, but I want to update. Since then, the truck has developed many problems. First was a serious rattle from the rear of the truck that occurs when the temperature drops below freezing. Supposedly, Toyota is aware of this problem, as it affects alot of trucks, but doesnt know how to fix it yet. Next was severe paint loss after driving only once in the snow, for about 15 miles. All of the paint along the rocker panels and rear fenders is coming off. This is happening to alot of trucks too, but so far, Toyota is not acknowledging its defective paint. Other problems include shuddering while accelerating and braking, and a noisy creaking dash and headboard.

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  Way more than expected! - 2010 Toyota Tacoma
  By Erik - July 18 - 10:46 am

  First off, I got a truck because I was sick of driving a small sedan and wanted the utility a truck offers. I am amazed at how quiet the ride is and how smooth it drives. Totally unexpected. Fuel economy is just what I expected at about 18.5 to 19.5. Of course I wanted 30, but its a truck! Plenty of power and a very comfortable ride. I now dont mind my commute every day.

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  Great Truck - 2004 Toyota Tacoma
  By 99shark - July 17 - 10:00 am

  I have owned Chevys, Fords, and Dodges, and none compare to this vehicle. Simply the best truck on the market.

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  WALLERS TACOMA - 2004 Toyota Tacoma
  By WALLER04 - July 16 - 12:06 am

  I was considering a wide range of vehicles, was looking and researching and decided to go with the Tacoma because of the high ratings from consumers and editors. I am very pleased with my Tacoma almost 9000 miles on since July of 2004 and like it, v6 has plenty of power, handles well on and off road, and good service at the dealer when going there for oil changes, I am so glad I bought a Tacoma than a ford ranger, to me the quality of this truck is better.

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  I love this Truck - 2008 Toyota Tacoma
  By Dave in Florida - July 15 - 8:13 pm

  I just traded my 2007 Tundra, 5.7 in on this truck. I got the TRD Sport package and am very satisfied with this truck. Toyota definitely knows what it is doing with these trucks. I cant find a thing I am unhappy about.