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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  Great truck - 2006 Toyota Tacoma
  By 06tacomatrd - June 26 - 6:50 am

  I bought the V6 Automatic TRD Off-Road Tacoma used from a dealer and Ive had it for about 2 years. Ive put over 50,000 miles on it, drove it across the country 3 times full of my belongings, and have taken it off-road in sand and hills. Zero issues. The only thing Ive done to it is change the oil every 4k miles and bought new tires. Despite having over 110,000 miles on it now, I still get compliments on it regularly. The highway ride is smooth up to 90 mph, even with aggressive Bridgestone Dueler A/T tires. And off-road you would have to TRY to get stuck because this thing is a beast.

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  2003 Tocoma - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By Shawn Gerrow - June 22 - 10:00 am

  The more I drive it, the more I love it. It allows a man with a wife and kids to still own a serious truck and avoid the dreaded mini-van! The back seat is very comfortable with plenty of legroom, even for adults. It is comfortable on the highway and competent off-road. I am completely impressed with its off-road abilities, its height and locking rear differential have allowed me to go places my previous pickup could only dream of. To top it all off, it looks awesome too!

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  Little Hauler/Commuter - 2007 Toyota Tacoma
  By Robert C - June 21 - 8:43 am

  First Toyota truck Ive owned. Ive owned a Frontier and a Ranger in the past. The Tacoma is a little better than the Frontier and a lot better than the Ranger, if you can get over the price difference. My Access Cab 4 cyl. is good on gas, but is underpowered even with a manual trans. First gear seems to be geared too low and hard to find at times when rolling at lower speeds. The exterior design is OK, with the stock wheels and tires too small for the well area The interior is nicely laid out with plenty of leg room for tall drivers. The radio is a little weak and the access cab area seating is too straight up for a comfortable ride. Overall, quality is good, just needs more 4cyl power.

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  Great Ride - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Phil Jones - June 19 - 12:56 pm

  Truck drives like a car and v-6 gets on it like a v-8. The only thing I see is that the passenger shoulder belt makes noise as it hits the side of the door when not in use and you hit a bump or on a bumpy road. You have to take the head rest off the rear seats to fold down but thats only a lazy thing. Besides that, it was well worth giving my 93 Toy truck to my son and getting this 2005 Tacoma. By far the best and most fun vehicle Ive ever had.

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  Buy It Now - 2011 Toyota Tacoma
  By rrobinson60 - June 17 - 5:43 pm

  I had a 2008 Nissan Frontier before I got this truck. The need for a change obvious because I really did not like driving it. Fuel economy poor. I did my research and ran across the 2011 Toyota Tacoma. When I saw that it came in a double cab 4 Cyl. I was ecstatic. The truck drives like a car. I am a pretty big guy and I have plenty of head room and leg room. The stereo system is great and it looks much better than the Frontier. I havent had it long enough to determine the fuel efficiency but I drove it 50 miles the first night and it barely moved off of full. I highly recommend this truck to anyone.

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  after one year old report - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By skyking85711 - June 16 - 2:00 am

  From day one when i went looking for a small quality pick-up truck i knew it was going to be a toyota tacoma 4 - cly 5-spd man. with air and stereo power sterring & power brakes.i never even test drove it as i drove it from the parking lot to in front of the dealership they wrote up the paper work i signed it and left with the truck ,i miss not having a clock and trip-ometer but have learned to live without.tacoma A-OK in my book.

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  Tacoma Prerunner Review - 2004 Toyota Tacoma
  By fpsakes1 - June 16 - 2:00 am

  I have found that this truck is first class in nearly every respect. The ride is comfortable and I have not experienced any problems with my lower back after an extended period of driving. It is a very responsive vehicle, with no delay in acceleration at critical times. Nor, is there any sway when cornering or at highway speeds around curves. I have no criticisms about the interior decor. (See below about the clock and rear head restraints.)

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  Rolling-On - 2000 Toyota Tacoma
  By mr.podater - June 14 - 10:00 am

  I purchased my Pre-Runner XCab July 2000 having a growing family, needed the room but gas was an issue. I chose the 2.7L 4 over the 6 for that reason. To date and 26,000 miles later, I havent second guessed my decision. It has the necessary power from stock once broken in to merge into the highway and pass cars. I dont advise riding at 80mph++ but it does that and a bit more. Cabin noise is acceptable at higher speeds. Use the power button when towing for faster shifts and improved power. Overall, I love my truck!! Wouldnt be caught driving anything else.

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  Wheres the bumper? - 2000 Toyota Tacoma
  By KBI - June 14 - 10:00 am

  Both this pickup and my Civic 2000 dont have real bumpers. Maybe this is the way they make them today. It will cost you if you his something. The transmission and clutch (std 5 spd), is the worst of any vehicle Ive driven of models built since the 1950s. I have to shift carefully to get anywhere near a smooth shift. By the way, I was raised on a farm and *know* how to shift. The pickup gets good mileage and the engine runs well and supplies all the power I need.

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  Happy in Texas! - 2016 Toyota Tacoma
  By slisk@grandecom.net - June 13 - 1:41 pm

  Happy as Heck!