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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  RB - 1996 Toyota Tacoma
  By Tacoma - September 30 - 6:23 am

  Very dependable. Only disappointment, wheel well rust way too soon.

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  Nice Truck with Some Concerns - 2016 Toyota Tacoma
  By David Denzer - September 28 - 7:16 pm

  Before purchasing this truck I also seriously considered the Colorado and Canyon. Those trucks have smoother rides and maybe a little more on demand power than the Tacoma. But, those are the only areas where they might be better. The Tacoma has features that the others dont even offer, including far better technology (amazing on the Tacoma), sun/moon roof (a must for me as a former convertible owner), far more exciting interior materials and layout, and a really fun ride. The Tacoma also has great storage compartments in the bed of the truck, and the limited comes with the tonneau cover. Put all of this together and I dont know why anyone would buy any other truck in this class. This is a great truck. The truck could have more "umph" when you step on the gas, but the "ect" button really gives this a boost, and if you truly do "step on the gas," it gives you all you ask for. But, you have to step on it a bit more than on other vehicles. Once you get used to this, you have an amazing truck that promises a lot of fun and utility for a long time to come. And the looks! Nothing else compares. I love this truck! A major drawback is towing. This is the reason Ive given it four instead of five stars. Towing something larger like a travel trailer, even if it falls well within the towing rating for this truck, can be a very scary ride. The truck is so small that the trailer can control the truck, causing the sensation of losing control at higher speeds. I definitely do not recommend this truck for towing anything larger than say, a small boat.

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  Review of my 04 Taco - 2004 Toyota Tacoma
  By NealsToy - September 27 - 2:00 am

  Ive received plenty of compliments on the looks of my Tacoma. I love driving it. Lots of power when you need it the most. Solid build.

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  Disappointing first 12000 miles - 2008 Toyota Tacoma
  By AL - September 25 - 9:16 pm

  I bought my truck February of 08. I have a factory-installed roof rack that leaked from the drivers side rail into the cabin with only 8000 mi that took 2 times to fix. My passenger floor board had to be re-welded because of squeaking noise that sounds like metals buckling whenever I drive over uneven pavements. Oh, they have to remove my passenger side front door, my steering wheel and my entire dashboard area just gain access to that one particular spot. My new car smell didnt last but a couple of months which was replaced by the aroma of a freshly welded metals which by the way lingered for more than 3 mos. Ive owned 4 different Toyotas in the past. 08 Tacoma is a disappointment.

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  Woman who loves her Tacoma! - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Tacoma Woman - September 25 - 6:06 pm

  I purchased my certified used Tacoma in October 06 after a Denver snowstorm left me unable to exit my driveway w/my current car. Ive wanted one of these trucks since I was 15 (Im 41 now). Its been the best decision I ever made (besides divorcing my husband!). This truck handles so well, has so much power and is so fun to drive, I only wish Id bought one sooner! Gas mileage isnt bad either. I really am a woman who loves her Tacoma!

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  Totally Toyota Family - 1998 Toyota Tacoma
  By dagger101 - September 25 - 10:00 am

  Absolutely perfect in every way! I purchased this with 52K miles on it a year ago. Not a squeak or rattle in it! Could have bought a new bare boned domestic for about the same money but have no regrets! I own this, my daughter has a Celica, my father owns a Tundra, my mother has a RAV 4 and we just bought a 2002 Camry last weekend. Boy does our salesman love us!

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  Good/Safe/Reliable - 2013 Toyota Tacoma
  By Ron - September 25 - 5:05 am

  Had a 14 4cyl. Tacoma access cab that I hit/bounced off a bridge 2 X at 70 MPH all bags (except passenger - no passenger) went off. It was totaled but crumpled as designed and trans/engine went into pavement as designed. It saved my life and no injuries. Replaced it with this 13 pre runner with a 4.0 six cyl. Get real avg. 20 MPG. Installed a Firestone rear airbag kit and the ride improved dramatically carrying 10 psi. with no load. I am an old guy and do not race around but plenty of power for me. We have had a 4runner, Landcruiser and several older off road junk tacomas. They all did their job and lasted if maintained.

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  Great Truck - 2007 Toyota Tacoma
  By Stephen - September 24 - 1:13 am

  I would recommend this to anyone looking for a well put together, good gas mileage fun to drive truck. You will not hear a complaint from this owner. I drive typically 160 miles per day and the comfort and reliability are astounding.

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  Just lost my 01 Tacoma - 2001 Toyota Tacoma
  By William Stuart - September 23 - 5:43 am

  My 2001 Tacoma just got totalled with 118,000 miles. Bought it used in 2002 with only 7,000 miles. Added 37,000 miles per year. NEVER HAD A PROBLEM. Was hoping to drive it for another 3 years or aprox 250,000 miles. I feel she would have got there. Started using synthetic oil @ 100,000 miles.

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  I like my new truck - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Dominic - September 22 - 11:50 pm

  I havent had it that long yet however I just took a 2000 mi round trip towing a trailer and a bed load. The truck performed great. Plus its nice around town.