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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  Taco Pancake - 1998 Toyota Tacoma
  By Debbie Dooner - January 14 - 2:00 am

  I had a 98 Tacoma 4wd xtra cab. I skid on ice at about 45 mph, went off road, took down two 8" diam trees, bounced, rolled 1.25x into a ditch, not very steep incline, about 5-6ditch. Totaled. I had a slight brush burn on my left ear and sore muscles on the sides of my neck. I am, remarkably, okay. The seatbelt held me in like a carnaval ride. Although, I cant help but wish that I hadnt Bounced and rolled in the first place. If you look at the accident scene, it seems odd that I rolled. I bought an 89 in 00. Had an electrical sensor problem, window came off track, and was replaced. Has 100,000 miles on it.

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  Fast but Noisy - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By B dubs - January 14 - 2:00 am

  This truck is fun to drive and looks good too. My only major complaint is the wind noise and rattles that have developed since I bought the truck. Something is always rattling and every day it is in a new place! When I drive at 45 miles/hour, a constant whirring sound (wind noise) can be heard that is very annoying [unless you turn up the radio :) ]. Other than that, a fine all around truck. 4000 miles and no mechanical problems yet.

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  yota goes far - 1996 Toyota Tacoma
  By shris - January 11 - 7:06 pm

  I currently own a 96 tacoma and it has been the best truck Ive ever owned!! What tacoma lacks in size and power it more than make up by delivering in toughness, dependability, and most important FUN! Tacoma is such a great truck I am about to buy a 05 tacoma to satisfy my cravings for 245 hp!!! Thank you toyota, keep those tacoma improvements comming.

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  Quite Possibly The Worst Engine Transmission Combo - 2016 Toyota Tacoma
  By andrew R - January 11 - 12:44 am

  Ive owned this car for 6 months now and can honestly say I despise it. I live in the SF Bay Area and this truck is awful on hills and the freeway. The engine feels very sluggish and when you slowly put your foot down for more power the engine agressively shifts up and makes a dramatic howling noise. The engine downshifts like crazy even when youre just coasting along. Which in turn means you have to constantly give the truck more gas. The brakes are grabby and unresponsive. Sure these trucks might have a great resale value but for 40K I expect something a lot better. Getting in and out is a task as well. At 58 I have difficulty getting in and out. Im constantly banging my knee on the steering wheel. The front molding has already come loose and is rattling very badly. Cheap plastic interior. Very disappointed Toyota. This is a swing and a miss.

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  Dont believe the haters - 2016 Toyota Tacoma
  By Scott B - January 10 - 12:55 am

  Tacoma is the best mid-size truck going and it rides and drives much better than the 2005-2015! Fuel economy is much improved. My older (2013) 4.0 L sucked the gas and the interior was uncomfortable. This truck feels like a Lexus! Pulls my Ranger Bass boat with ease and hits the trails in our hunting property with authority. The older truck is just that....older. The newer Atkinson Cycle motor is awesome! Handling is much improved. Buy the truck! You can believe this review, Ive driven Tacomas since they were Hiluxs!

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  Would recommend... - 2000 Toyota Tacoma
  By JCF - January 9 - 10:00 am

  ...this truck to anyone. Bought mine in Oct 2000 and have 75k miles. Overall dependability is beyond reproach. Been tremendous fun and plan to keep it for some time ( dont care for the exterior changes on the 2001+ models).

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  Great buy - 2001 Toyota Tacoma
  By Chris - January 7 - 1:56 am

  Almost 100,000 miles with no problems other than a new battery and new tires. I love my Toyota. Great buy and I plan to hold on to my truck for a long time.

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  Great Reliable Truck - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Jaime - January 5 - 5:50 pm

  I got an Ext. Cab with TRD-Off Road Package. The truck is excellent in everyday driving. I drive through country roads with only 1 lane(in each direction) and find myself passing other trucks and vehicles all the time. Very dangerous but I have enough power to do it quickly! Very reliable truck, already have 50K in it and the engine and paint are as good as new. I drive fast and only get 17.5 MPG, but when I slow down I reach up to 19.5 MPG.

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  Happy I bought it - 2008 Toyota Tacoma
  By Surfdogg - December 31 - 6:20 am

  This is my first Tacoma (and following up a bad Chevy experience). Overall I am happy with the truck, it shifts smoothly, has power to go when needed, and it has the options I wanted.

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  What a truck! - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Ylekiot - December 29 - 7:40 pm

  Bought it yesterday! Truck looks, rides and drives excellent.