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 for the $ - 1999 Toyota Tacoma
  By Felito - November 16 - 2:00 am

  I bought this baby brand new in 1999. This is a very powerful 2.4 lt 4 cyl engine. I used to tow a 20 Commander jet sky boat 3500 lbs from Corona, CA to the Colorado river and I was amazed at this great little truck pulling avility. It has over 80K miles and all I had to replace was tires and front brakes. What more can you ask for?

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  Best of trucks:Toyota - 2004 Toyota Tacoma
  By trotter.3 - November 16 - 2:00 am

  When I see a Toyota add, I wonder why it doesnt push Toyotas greatest point: reliability. I know it will get me where I want to go. It starts every time, and requires minimal maintenance. When others tell me of car problems, I ask: what make is it? Why dont you get a Toyota? The last trip I made to my mechanic, I asked him to give my truck a good look over. I have 85000 miles on my truck. My mechanic came back and told me my Tacoma is in excellent condition. I wasnt surprsied. As a loyal Toyota customer, Ill never have any other make than a Toyota. You might, say Im in love with my Toyota.

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  Happy w/ 05 Toyota Tacoma Dbl Cab L-Bd - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By From Highway to Mtns - November 15 - 11:30 pm

  No buyers remorse here. I put 275K on my last Toyota truck and have every expectation of doing it again with my PK package Double Cab Long Bed. With 1500 miles on the truck, Im getting 21 mpg on the highway and 17 city. Im using the recommend 91 octane; even though the dealer said 87 would do. The truck is an eye-catcher, getting comments everywhere it goes. I would be comfortable taking on the town for a black-tie affair or into the mountains, as I did this past weekend, for climbing trails and hauling wild-game.

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  Excellent - 2017 Toyota Tacoma
  By Brian - November 14 - 3:12 am

  This is my 3rd Truck and boy does it drive much better then the 1970 Toyota truck or my 1983 Dodge Rampage. That saying a lot since the dodge rampage drove like a car with nice bucket seats. The truck takes a little getting used to but like any new vehicle it going to take time to adjust to different settings. I was thrilled because my insurance only went up 10 bucks from driving a 2006 Acura TSX and I was not paying all that much for great coverage under 400 every 6 months. The truck likes to conserve on gas yes but when you need power just push the pedal down firm and you got full on get up and go power. If your taller then 6 FT you may end up hitting your head on the ceiling. For the most part though the ride is smooth and compliant especially on freeway. If your looking to get some extra weight under the wheels definitely get the Tonneau cover. It helps with getting more grip on the tires and improves gas mileage. Also the engine is much more compliant between gear shifts or maybe the computer just learned to adjust to my drive style. Either way it should be a boon to you because you can now lock your bed and lock the tailgate. Which is one of my concerns since the tailgate is so easy to remove.

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  4 Door Taco Driven Hard - 2001 Toyota Tacoma
  By Kris - November 11 - 7:50 pm

  Most versatile vehicle Ive ever owned!! Huge back seat for a mid-size truck. Im 6 tall and I fit back there. Very, very reliable!!! I abuse this truck and it takes every bit of it. 118,000 miles only work done is new brake pads, tires, and o2 sensors. Very usable truck. I drive it on the highway every day, go off-road on weekends, and tow my boat regularly. Great truck period.

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  Best Toyota yet - 2004 Toyota Tacoma
  By geronia - November 11 - 1:33 am

  It drives as good as my 2000 Tundra

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  Owner of vehicle - 2006 Toyota Tacoma
  By don - November 10 - 6:36 am

  Nice truck, long distance hauls are uncomfortable, seats still are not well padded, it is sporty and has looks, braking is still a little sluggish.

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  2006 TRD Taco Review - One Year In - 2006 Toyota Tacoma
  By CFFuts - November 10 - 4:16 am

  Its been almost one year since I purchased my 06 TRD Crew Cab Short Box and overall it was a great buy. It has been very reliable, gets relatively good mileage (at 11.2k miles, Ive averaged 17.75 MPG) and is fun to drive.

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  Good Truck Tacoma 2wd V6 6m/t - 2007 Toyota Tacoma
  By tslick76 - November 9 - 5:03 pm

  I think the Toyota Tacoma V6 is great strong Motor and the 6 speed m/t works fine (I find the oil changes very easy to do, I love the location of the oil filter). But, I have had some problems with chipping paint also. Furthermore the seating position is a little low. Also no iPod connection, my company work van has one. Also I wish the Tacoma had pop out wing windows (my 2004 Tacoma did). The Tacoma has great looks and it will be easy to sale. I suggest getting the tow package (6500lbs), the Tacoma is strong and can handle towing and off road driving. Its easy to beat up any truck, but in 10 years this truck will be still on the road (reliable).

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  Its a truck - 2009 Toyota Tacoma
  By jimc47 - November 5 - 12:19 pm

  Disappointed with seat height, feels like my legs are jacked up. Hard to get in because of steps. If I kept this truck I would take the steps off. Paint seems to be too soft. Has a diesel sound at times when accelerating, I think mid grade or premium fixes that. No vehicle is perfect, so these are my complaints, I am now in the process of trading it off at 23,000 miles. Resale is not as good as expected either.