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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  Major Improvement Over Previous Models - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Tacoma Bred - September 2 - 2:40 pm

  Ive had Toyota trucks for most of my adult life and have been disappointed by the lack of amenities in past versions. But, the 2005 version makes a huge leap forward. Im now getting up into my late 40s and looking for a more refined truck thats reliable. The Titan actually had everything I was looking for. However, its ride was sub par and I could actually see the gas gage needle drop as I test drove it. Ive always had a manual trans since I tend to be a control freak. But didnt like the Tacoma’s 6-spd (too many gears for all that power). I must say I have fallen in love w/ the auto – it’s a nice setup that I drive like a stick (designed by someone w/ a brain). I do recommend it.

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  Its GREAT - 1995 Toyota Tacoma
  By Zach - September 2 - 10:00 am

  I think the toyota tacoma is Great. it has enough room to have a workload, yet enough room to carry a 5-6 person family

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  Its GREAT - 1995 Toyota Tacoma
  By zach - September 2 - 10:00 am

  I think the toyota tacoma is Great. it has enough room to have a workload, yet enough room to carry a 5-6 person family

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  This is the one - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By Primo - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Strong. Reliable. Fun to drive. Outstanding performance. THE compact pickup to buy, hands down. Test drove them all and picked the Tacoma.

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  Doing Research Pays off... - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By ptelep - August 28 - 10:00 am

  I read Consumer Reports, and the Tacoma is the only compact pickup they endorse. I read lots of reviews online from customers. I read edmunds reviews and the like. I spent a month reading and reading. Then I test drove maybe seven or eight Tacomas and really got a feel for them. Maybe Im a nut, but I wanted to make sure I was getting my moneys worth. Well, I sure did. I have a 2003 Gold Tacoma completely loaded with leather, woodgrain dash, bug guard, upgraded wheels and tires, bedliner, lighted color-keyed running boards, and toyoguard (overpriced but what the hell, maybe the gunk works!) This is arguably the best vehicle Ive ever owned.

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  Overall beast! - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By palermo - August 21 - 10:03 pm

  Smooth riding and big truck feel. Not a gas saving vehicle and only uses premium gasoline (more expensive).

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  Love my new Tacoma - 2010 Toyota Tacoma
  By NC ToyotaMan - August 21 - 6:06 pm

  This is my first pickup truck purchase in a lot of years. Ive had many SUVs. The Tacoma certainly rides like a truck. A little bouncy even on the highway. Visibility is excellent, especially with the double cab. You can turn your head and see just about a 360 view. No major blind spots. The seat is a bit short in the depth, but I think it is just the right height unlike reviews that state the seat is too low to the floor. The audio system should have more power. Not very impressive for such a nice truck. Sounds like a clock radio. First tank of gas gave 16.5 mpg. Not bad for an engine that isnt broken in yet. For a v6 mpg should be much higher though. Plenty of power. No trans hunting.

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  Retiree Gift to Self - 2005 Toyota Tacoma
  By Len - August 21 - 6:06 am

  This is my first truck and ownership has been alot of fun. It is getting used for its intended purpose, road trips and hauling. Definitely a head turner.

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  Great truck - 2004 Toyota Tacoma
  By Michael - August 20 - 3:10 pm

  I got the base model no power anything reg cab. Only thing I have is A/C and rear bumper and tinted windows. Love this truck the only thing is It should have come with a clock as standard equipment. There is also no clock in the radio. Speaking of radio a CD would have been better then a cassette. Looking at the way the truck is made it looks old school very easy to work on if needed. Also a locking gas cover is needed.

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  Awesome truck! - 2006 Toyota Tacoma
  By toyotaman - August 16 - 2:36 am

  I previously owned an 04 Nissan Frontier, which I immediately regretted buying, so I traded it for an 05 tacoma 4cyl. PreRunner. I loved that truck so much that when it got taken away from me by my father who was the cosignor, I had to have another one. So I bought an 06 PreRunner, this time with a v6. I absolutely love this truck! I wouldnt trade it for anything except maybe another Tacoma. wouldnt change anything as far as design goes. I just wish Id spent the extra for a double cab long bed 4x4. Otherwise, I love my truck. Unfortunately so does my girlfriend, and we often argue over who gets to drive it.