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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  Changed my religion - 2007 Toyota Tacoma
  By Rob D - December 15 - 3:56 am

  I have been a Nissan guy for over 20 years , I decided to give this little Toyota Taco a try. I must say I am very impressed with the all around quality and I am glad I went with a Toyota. Well built, very tight, smooth on the road, not bad pick up for a 4 cyl. getting good mpg.

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  2002 Toyota Tacoma Prerunner - 2003 Toyota Tacoma
  By dj-luv - November 30 - 2:00 am

  Turned in a 4-runner to get this Tacoma prerunner Limited. I like the way it drives better than the 4-runner, more power! The 3.4 L V6 is a lot of fun to drive. A good looking truck at high price. Love the TRD off-road package.

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  Rookie Truck Owner - 2012 Toyota Tacoma
  By truckrookie - November 28 - 7:05 pm

  I bought (and reviewed on here) my 2009 Audi TT Convertible which has been and continues to be a blast. At 85K miles, I decided to let it be my weekend car and get a truck for the first time. I had always been in love with Tacomas. This October I got a 2012 Pre-Runner Xtra Cab and couldnt be happier. The interior has been upgraded and has a stylish, sporty feel. There is plenty of storage and plenty of room without feeling like you are driving in the middle of a cavern. The 4 CYL engine definitely provides enough power, and the Pre-Runner look gives the appearance of a 4x4 without the drawbacks on MPG.

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  My Halloweenie Double CAB, 4X4, V6 - 2004 Toyota Tacoma
  By valentine - November 28 - 10:00 am

  I love this truck its so fun to drive!!! Its a multi-purpose truck made for the young and young at heart.

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  Love this truck - 2007 Toyota Tacoma
  By Mike - November 22 - 4:16 pm

  After having a Chevy S-10 and always wanting a Toyota, I can not be happier. I recently pulled a U-Haul trailer from PA to Florida, it made it seem like I had nothing on the back. My bud, pulled the same with an S-10. I pretty much could have dusted him. He had problems with hills, and I didnt. I also got better gas mileage, which is always a plus. I just like having a truck, even though this is the smaller model, it still rocks, has great power for a little engine. This is my second Toyota, I will never again own anything else.

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  1st time Tacoma owner - 2010 Toyota Tacoma
  By Taclover - November 21 - 9:56 am

  I really love this truck. I was looking for a truck that would last me at least 10 yrs and get good mileage. I love the box and suicide doors. The SR5 package is worth the money.

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  Great Truck - 2010 Toyota Tacoma
  By Smolenski7 - November 19 - 11:13 pm

  This is my first truck. Im a teacher by trade, but do a lot of work around the house and my wife drives a minivan that Ive "destroyed," so a pick up was a logical choice for me. I bought the Tacoma simply because it is the safest truck on the market today. Only the Tundra and Ridgeline compare. I also chose it because of the 6.1ft bed. I couldnt purchase a truck with a small bed. Didnt seem to make sense to me. The truck is quiet. In fact, its so quiet and the ride is so smooth, that I dont notice how fast Im going until I look down at the speedometer. The fit and finish is superb, no noises for me. The seats are comfortable, the steering is crisp, and the breaks are smooth.

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  As Advertised - 2001 Toyota Tacoma
  By bearcrkrd - November 19 - 10:00 am

  Bought new, Thanksgiving weekend 2000. The reviews at that time of CR and Edmunds, especially Edmunds, were very accurate for the base model, 5spd, regular cab. I had a cold start problem about a month after purchase. Had it happen again about a year later. Learned to hold gas pedal down all the way while turning engine over. It starts about 10+ seconds later, sputters and smells for maybe 20 seconds, with small amount of light colored smoke just after starting. Then runs like nothing happened. These two incidents are it. The vehicle is mechanically new, with very little cosmetic damage.

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  Bigger Is Not Always Better - 2002 Toyota Tacoma
  By Flavellinator - November 17 - 11:06 pm

  I looked at many new trucks and was not impressed. Sure, theyre larger, faster, and hold more things, but thats not what I needed. I didnt want the worry of fitting into a small parking space, or making a U-turn, or driving on a narrow road. I needed a truck that held four people comfortably while still being able to haul my stuff, rode well, and was dependable. So I backtracked and purchased a used Tacoma. What a great decision! Its design is outstanding; the sightlines from sitting up high are fantastic. Gas mileage is good. Its comfortable too. Not everyone wants a big truck; its a mistake that they removed this size of vehicle from the market, so get a good used one while you can.

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  Entune Almost a deal breaker! - 2016 Toyota Tacoma
  By David - November 15 - 5:44 am

  I bought the 2016 Tacoma and Im satisfied with the truck but not very happy with it. All things consider, the truck is probably still the best midsize truck, simply because the reliability, handling and "truck feeling" outperforms the rest. However the two weakest points of the truck are the under performance in fuel Economy and the terrible, unfriendly and BAD entune system. If you are the type of guy who is into technology and want his phone to work well and integrate Ina modern way, you will HATE THIS SYSTEM. I cannot understand how Toyota decided to not use Apple CarPlay and android in-car system. Instead they use this in-house version of a system that looks and feels like it belongs with the 2010 model. Some times I wish I should trade in for another brand just because of the frustration it causes. s