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:

• 

  Close but still not the perfect "10" - 2006 Toyota Tacoma
  By MSter - February 22 - 7:26 pm

  After much research through this site, I decided to buy the Tacoma. It seemed to come out on top (or close) with each comparison (e.g. mileage, towing, interior room, styling, and sense of quality. This truck leaves a lasting impression of quality. Gives a solid "thud" when closing the doors (I love that sound!). Good visibility although the rear headrests can be obstructive. Some of the negative areas I have found since ownership is the automatic transmission seems to search around for the right gearing to match your speed. The brakes also seem a little squishy. I havent towed with the vehicle yet but am cautiously curious about braking performance under load.

• 

  A great truck! - 2006 Toyota Tacoma
  By ETAYLOR - February 19 - 6:43 pm

  I traded my 98 f-150 for a 06 Tacoma with the TRD package.I spent 6 months pricing and researching various trucks before chosing the tacoma. I have been impressed with this truck from the first test dive I took. The ride is great, it feels like a mid-size sedan, very smooth on the freeway with little outside noise. The interior finish is impressive, everything is well laid out,I love the red gauges and the interior storage.I can see myself in this truck for the next 5-10 years!

• 

  2016 Tacoma is Poor overall - 2016 Toyota Tacoma
  By JR - February 19 - 4:04 pm

  I have had two Tacomas prior to this 2016 and it seems that they have gone down the drain as far as quality. I have this truck for 6 Months and it has been in shop more then I have driven it. issue with the radio it went completely out and it took a month to repair. Noise coming from the right drivers side top dash. it has gone in two time is for the same issue and this will be the third time. Not happy at all with this Tacoma I been a loyal fan of the Tacoma this was my 4th Tacoma but sadly to say that it will be my last. Thinking of trading this one in and getting an American truck.

• 

  Best ever - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By DARRELL BLOCH - February 19 - 9:36 am

  My second Toyota truck. First went 287,000 miles! Extremely good power train and excellent brakes. Very good mid-range torque and a very quiet ride even at 75 mph.

• 

  Nice features, bad transmission setup - 2009 Toyota Tacoma
  By FFT - February 18 - 2:13 am

  I recently bought a 2009 PreRunner double cab and the interior is very nice although I share the grip about the leg clearance under the steering wheel. I have to push the wheel all the way up and out and sorta wiggle my way in. The interior is nice otherwise. The transmission setup on this truck however is anything but nice and the brakes are too weak. The transmission hunts under 45 mph and the always on engine braking in "D" is VERY annoying. You cant roll down smooth. Also, the upshift to second is hard and the entire downshift from 5 (which the tranny races to get to) is hard in every gear. My 97 T100 was weak on power, but it was 10 times smoother mechanically. Unfortunate.

• 

  My 3rd Toyota truck... - 2010 Toyota Tacoma
  By MikelJay - February 18 - 12:06 am

  I love my Tacoma. This is my 3rd Toyota truck. The 10 Tacoma carries on the tradition of great build quality and reliability. This is one of the quietest trucks Ive owned. The 4 cylinder/auto tranny is very responsive, pulls well and builds speed quickly. The interior is very comfortable and quiet. Although Ive had the truck for 2 weeks now, the fuel mileage seems to be getting better as it gets broken in. Averaging 25 combined city/highway miles per gallon, and I expect it will only get better as it gets broken in.

• 

  2.7 4x4 Access Cab 5sp - 2009 Toyota Tacoma
  By Tom - February 17 - 9:26 am

  I live in the mountains and have found that the 2.7 liter has more than enough power for effortless driving. I also have a 2006 Toyota FJ cruiser, 4 liter V6 auto, so it is interesting to compare the two vehicles. I have not found the 2.7 liter to be under powered, also the ride is more comfortable because of the longer wheel base. One of the reasons for getting the Tacoma was because of the good fuel economy that I experienced with the FJ Cruiser which replaced a Jeep Liberty.

• 

  Best ever - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Doc J - February 14 - 6:10 pm

  Ive owned a number of Toyota trucks in the past. All have been excellent with incredible trade-in value. This one is the best ever. Roomy, solid, plenty of power, 6 forwards, bed tie downs, protected bed, much bigger extra cab, great sound system, easy to red dash, plenty of leg/head room and a large feeling cab (not closed in). Head lamps seem brighter and flash rather than stay on all the time. I love the vehicle.

• 

  kgs - 2002 Toyota Tacoma
  By keith saunders - February 14 - 10:00 am

  fuel econ 22, less than my 1990. needs more power if you tow/ go on hills very reliable,easy to drive not much dealing on price

• 

  2003 Toyota Tacoma V6 4 Dr SR5 - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By rjtoc2 - February 14 - 10:00 am

  Overall I really like my Toyota. I has a firm ride (which I like) and the V6 has plenty of power when you need it. I am a car care fanantic and so far, everything appears easy to maintain. Washing and drying is easy and is fun. Sitting in the vehicle affords a great view and surprising there are very few "blind spots" when driving.