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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  LOVE THE TACO - 2009 Toyota Tacoma
  By EKC - March 10 - 5:50 pm

  Just racked up 1000 miles on my new Tacoma, this is my first one, and I could not be happier. 2.7 four is a solid motor, took it to the snow and it had plenty of power to scoot up the hills(just keep it in 4th) new traction control is great, very comfortable and smooth ride. Had a 99 Dodge Dakota, now I am sold on the Taco, hands down.

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  Reliable and Fun - 2002 Toyota Tacoma
  By TSD - March 9 - 10:00 am

  My husband and I bought this vehicle in June. For the last month I have been driving this truck. He cannot seem to pry it away from me!

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  Finally got my Tacoma - 2009 Toyota Tacoma
  By CPB333 - March 8 - 1:30 pm

  I have been wanting to purchase this truck since they redesigned it and I finally got it in June 09. I am very happy with my purchase. The truck rides great, handles well has plenty of storage and hauling ability. I got the TRD sport model fully loaded with every option I could add. I really like the JBL stereo but the sub in the back seems to vibrate the plastic interior on particular notes but overall it sounds great and was a good upgrade. The v6 has plenty of power and acceleration to merge on the freeway or pull out into traffic. I loaded the bed up the second day we had it with a heavy reclining sofa and couldnt even tell it was there when driving.

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  Dissapointed - 2016 Toyota Tacoma
  By mTacoma - March 7 - 12:17 pm

  I bought this truck because of Tacomas seemingly historical reliability...however, its been a mess of issues. Horrible transmission, low power, vibrations in the drive-train somewhere, rattling windows, shift flares, entune radio that reboots when it feels like it. Terribly dissapointed in the quality. And, to boot, Toyota claims everything is operating normally! HA! What a load of crap.

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  Best Truck of its Size - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Sean - March 5 - 5:46 pm

  Ive waited to write a review until Ive had my truck for a while. Ive had it for almost 4 months now, and have put on almost 7,000 miles. I love it. Performs great on road and off road. Climbs hills that you would think be un-climbable. Smooth ride, plenty of room up front and back. Finally a truck that comes with a standard bed and 4 doors. I use 91 octane and get 17 mpg avg. A lot of engine noise but I like that so it doesnt bother me. I have had paint chipping problems with the Speedway blue as have more people Ive spoken with. Definitely worth checking out if you like that color. Verdict: Great truck to take out on the town, and then go 4x4 and climb some hills.

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  Very happy with this truck - 1997 Toyota Tacoma
  By ryanmiller98 - March 2 - 2:00 am

  I’ve had my Tacoma for nearly 5 years and plan on driving it another 5. After 117K miles, the only problem was w/ the air conditioning - a difficult- to-diagnose leak costing $380 at the dealer. Other than that, Ive changed tires as needed, the engine oil every 4- 5K, and trans/diff every 15K. New plugs, air/fuel filters, EGR Valve - routine self-performed minor tune-up. Ive done a bit of 4WD (6X/year) - Handles solid in snow and trail. The check engine light I used to get? - hasnt done it once since I turned the gascap at least 3 clicks after fillup. I strongly recommend it and will likely buy a newer one - probably around 2008

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  Love it. - 2002 Toyota Tacoma
  By Ryan - February 29 - 12:03 am

  4 doors are great and I dont find the size of the bed to be an issue. Reliable, handles well, especially in snow. Not the most comfortable ride on bumpy dirt roads, but fine on the highway. I highly recommend it.

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  not so bad - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Cleve Miller - February 27 - 10:10 am

  Its a good truck that has a lot of power behind it. Also it handles like a car unlike most trucks that handle like its an 18 wheeler. The interior design is futuristic and sporty. This thing is rugged and seems like it can take a lot of beating.

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  Most Reliable Vehicle Ive Ever Owned - 1996 Toyota Tacoma
  By BB - February 27 - 7:43 am

  It has been a superb vehicle. Only things replaced: sensor inside catalytic converter; solenoid in starter; & manifold. Im just now getting to the point that the clutch assembly needs replaced with almost 280,000 miles on the truck. Great lumbar support for my back. Id like to change a few things inside the cab that were not well designed, but they are small issues compared to the trucks reliability and great gas mileage. Ill keep it until Im too old to drive a stick shift!

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  So much fun! - 2002 Toyota Tacoma
  By Jynxie - February 25 - 2:00 am

  I have wanted the Toyota Pickup for a long time, and finally I got one April of 2002. I called it "my Buff Little Truck" and it is! It has great pep in it and takes a bit of off road abuse. :)