The Toyota Tacoma Pickup Truck

Since its introduction in 1995, the Toyota Tacoma has been a popular choice for truck enthusiasts and adventurers looking for a versatile and capable mid-size pickup truck.

The Tacoma blends tough durability with excellent performance. One of the Tacoma’s major features is its sophisticated technology package, which brings convenience, comfort, and safety for both drivers and passengers. Its panoramic view monitoring system, which combines numerous cameras to provide drivers with a 360-degree view of their surroundings, is one of these innovations. It makes it easier than ever to traverse tight areas and avoid road hazards. The Toyota Tacoma is a top choice for drivers around the country, whether you’re searching for a dependable work truck or a versatile vehicle for weekend activities.

If you’re searching for a vehicle that performs equally well in the backcountry as it does in downtown Los Angeles, you’ll love the Tacoma.

Toyota Tacoma Features and Specifications

Let’s look at the Tacoma’s fuel economy, trim packages, and other specs.

Tacoma Trim Packages

The Toyota Tacoma comes in the following trim package options:

• Toyota Tacoma SR: the base model with a spacious interior, cloth seats, and a standard infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen display.
• Toyota Tacoma SR5: upgraded base model with power-adjustable driver’s seat, keyless entry, and blind-spot monitoring system.
• Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport: sports model, with a sport-tuned suspension, LED lighting, and a larger infotainment screen.
• Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road: an off-road focused trim, with multi-terrain select, crawl control, and an electronic locking rear differential.
• Toyota Tacoma Limited: the luxurious option, with leather seats, a premium JBL audio system, and a panoramic sunroof.
• Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro: designed for off-road enthusiasts, with features like FOX shock absorbers, skid plates, and 16-inch TRD black alloy wheels.

Tacoma Fuel Economy: 17-25 MPG

The Toyota Tacoma gets an average of 19 to 20 mpg in the city and 24 to 25 mpg on the highway. The mileage depends on the model year, the trim package, and the size of the engine.

• Toyota Tacomas 2016-2022 model years get an estimated 19-20 mpg in the city and 24-25 mpg on the highway.
• The TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro models have slightly lower fuel economy compared to other Toyota Tacoma trim packages due to their off-road capabilities.
• The 2020 Toyota Tacoma has an estimated combined fuel economy of 21 mpg.
• The 2021 Toyota Tacoma has an estimated combined fuel economy of 19 mpg.

Tacoma mileage can also change depending on how and where you drive it. Driving too fast, carrying too much weight, and going off-road frequently can all reduce fuel efficiency. Your Toyota Tacoma will get better gas mileage if you take care of it and drive it carefully.

Tacoma Engine Options

The Toyota Tacoma offers the following engine packages:

• 2.7L 4-cylinder engine: available in SR, SR5, TRD Sport, and TRD Off-Road trim packages.
• 3.5L V6 engine: available in TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro trim packages.
• 3.5L V6 direct injection engine with D-4S fuel injection: available in the TRD Pro trim packages.
• 2.8L 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine: available in the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trim packages.

Engine options can differ based on the market and what’s available. Check out our selection of used Tacomas to find one near you.

Tacoma Drivetrain Options

The Toyota Tacoma offers these drivetrain options:

• Rear-wheel drive (RWD): available for SR and SR5 trims.
• Part-time four-wheel drive (4WD): the TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and TRD Pro trims.
• Full-time four-wheel drive (4WD): only available with Limited trim.
• Automatic limited slip differential (auto LSD): available for TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims.

Tacoma Seating Options

The Toyota Tacoma offers these seating packages:

• Cloth Seats: the base SR and SR5 trims come standard with cloth seats.
• SofTex-trimmed seats: only the TRD Sport and Limited trims are equipped with sofTex-trimmed seats.
• Leather-Trimmed Seats: the TRD Off-Road models and TRD Pro trims are available with leather-trimmed seats.
• Heated Front Seats: heated front seats are available in the Limited and TRD Pro trims.
• Power-Adjustable Driver’s Seat: the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims come standard with a power-adjustable driver’s seat.

Tacoma Dimensions and Performance

The Toyota Tacoma is designed for off-roading, towing, hauling, and daily driving. Here are some key dimensions and performance metrics for Tacoma models.

• Size: 209.8 inches.
• Width: 75.2 inches.
• Weight: around 4,000 pounds.
• Wheelbase: 127.4 inches to 140.6 inches .
• Engine: 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine or 3.5-liter V6 engine.
• Turning radius: 40.8 feet for the base SR trim and 41.3 feet for the TRD Pro trim.
• Ground clearance: 9.4 inches to 10.6 inches depending on the trim level.
• Payload capacity: from 1,620 pounds to 1,620 pounds.
• Towing capacity: between 3500-6400 lbs.
• Torque: 180 lb-ft for the 2.7-liter 4-cylinder.

These are generalized metrics that will vary depending on the model and trim level.

Toyota Tacoma History

Toyota Tacoma pickups have been a market staple for over two decades. Here are some key historical events in the truck’s evolution and growth into one of the most popular and well-regarded vehicles on the market.

1. In 1995, the first-generation Toyota Tacoma was introduced as a midsize pickup truck designed to replace the Toyota Hilux. Back then was available in regular and extended cab versions with a standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine or an optional 3.4-liter V6 engine.
2. In 2000, Toyota expanded the Tacoma lineup to include new models and features, including a sporty Xtracab model, new engine options, and improved interior features.
3. In 2005, the second-generation Toyota Tacoma was introduced featuring a more powerful engine, refined interior, and larger, more stylish exterior design.
4. In 2015 Toyota introduced a third-generation Tacoma, featuring an all-new design, advanced technology features, improved fuel economy, and enhanced off-road capabilities.
5. In 2021, the Toyota Tacoma lineup was expanded to include a hybrid version, updated safety features, and advanced infotainment technology.

Used Toyota Tacoma Pricing

A used Toyota Tacoma’s price tag can change significantly based on its year, trim, and general condition. Depending on age and mileage, a used Tacoma from a recent model year might cost anywhere from $20,000 to $40,000 or more.

Find out what other people in your region are charging for a used Toyota Tacoma by doing some comparison shopping. It’s important to remember that the price can change based on factors including local supply and demand for the vehicle. If you’re in the market for a used Toyota Tacoma, you should always have a reliable mechanic look it over first to make sure it’s in good shape and to spot any flaws that could drive up the price.

When figuring out how much a used Toyota Tacoma is worth, you shouldn’t just look at how much it costs to buy. Even though a used Tacoma may be cheaper at first, it will still need regular maintenance and repairs, especially if you plan to take it off-roading or haul heavy loads.

So, when deciding how much money you can put toward a used Toyota Tacoma, remember to include these costs. It’s worth your time to spend some time looking for the right used Tacoma for your needs and budget.

Toyota Tacoma SR

The Toyota Tacoma SR offers several features that are not included on the base model. The differences between the Toyota Tacoma SR trim and the base model are the following:

• The SR trim comes with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with audio and navigation functions.
• The Toyota Tacoma SR trim comes with power windows and locks, while the base model requires manual operation for both functions.
• Tacoma SR trim includes a sliding rear window, which provides additional ventilation and access to the bed of the truck.
• The SR trim includes color-keyed overfenders and a chrome rear bumper, giving the truck a more premium look.

Toyota Tacoma SR5

The Toyota Tacoma SR5 is a well-equipped midsize truck that makes driving easier and more comfortable than the base model. Let’s take a look at the main differences:

• The SR5 trim comes with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with features like Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa and Android Auto.
• The SR5 trim includes advanced safety features such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning.
• The Tacoma SR5 includes upgraded upholstery that is more comfortable and durable than the cloth seats found in the base model.

Used Toyota Tacoma SR Prices

Most used Toyota Tacomas with the SR trim package will sell for $20,000 to $28,000, depending on mileage, condition, and age.

Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport

The Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport has a sporty appearance and improved off-road capabilities. The TRD Sport trim was designed for those who want a more athletic, street-oriented pickup.

Features that distinguish the TRD Sport from the base model include:

• TRD-tuned suspension with Bilstein shocks
• 17-inch alloy wheels with sport-tuned suspension
• Entune premium audio system with navigation
• Wireless smartphone charging
• LED daytime running lights and fog lights
• Smart Key System with push-button start
• Color-keyed hood scoop and mirrors

Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road

The Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road is a rugged and highly capable off-road vehicle designed for those who need an off-roading vehicle that can also haul things.

Here are some of the ways the TDI Off-road differs from the TRD Sport:

• The TRD Off-road comes with a specialized suspension system that includes Bilstein shocks, a rear stabilizer bar, and a multi-terrain select system with crawl control. The Tacoma TRD Sport has a sport-tuned suspension that provides a more responsive ride but is less suited for rough terrain.
• The TRD Off-road comes with 16-inch wheels and all-terrain tires, while the TRD Sport has 17-inch wheels and street-oriented tires.
• The Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-road has a more rugged look, with unique badging, a hood scoop, and a front skid plate. The TRD Sport has a more athletic appearance, with a color-keyed hood scoop and fender flares.
• Both trims come standard with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, but the TRD Off-road includes an electronically locking rear differential, while the TRD Sport has a standard limited-slip differential.

Used Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Prices

Most used Toyota Tacomas with the TRD Pro trim package will sell for $30,000 to $50,000, depending on mileage, condition, and age.

Whether you are cruising down Miami, FL, or off-roading near Los Angeles, CA, the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro is a reliable off-road vehicle.

Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro

The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro is a top-of-the-line trim package, known for its off-road capability and ruggedness. Here are some of the key differences between the TRD Pro, TRD Off-road, and TRD Sport trims:

1. The TRD Pro has a high-performance suspension system with Fox shocks, while the TRD Off-Road has Bilstein shocks and the TRD Sport has a sport-tuned suspension.
2. The TRD Pro trim package comes with all-terrain tires mounted on black TRD alloy wheels, while the TRD Off-Road and TRD Sport have all-season tires on alloy wheels.
3. The Toyota TacomaTRD Pro has a distinctive front grille, blacked-out hood scoop, and black badging, while the TRD Off-Road and TRD Sport have their own unique styling touches.
4. The TRD Pro features leather-trimmed seats with red contrast stitching and TRD Pro branding, while the TRD Off-Road and TRD Sport have their own unique interior design.
5. The Tacoma TRD Pro has a part-time 4WD system with an electronically controlled transfer case, while the TRD Off-Road and TRD Sport have a similar system but with manual transmission.
6. The TRD Pro comes standard with a JBL premium audio system, LED headlights and fog lights, and a power moonroof, which are optional on the TRD Off-Road and TRD Sport.

Toyota Tacoma Limited

The Toyota Tacoma Limited offers a combination of luxury, capability, and advanced safety features that sets it apart from the base model. The Limited trim is an appealing choice for those who want a premium driving experience.

Here are some of the key differences between the Limited and the base model:

• The Tacoma Limited features unique exterior styling elements such as the body-color rear bumper, chrome grille, and 18-inch alloy wheels.
• The Toyota Tacoma Limited trim offers more luxurious features than the base model, such as leather-trimmed seats, a power moonroof, and a JBL premium audio system.
• The Limited trim comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of driver-assist features that includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams.
• The Tacoma Limited is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
• The Limited trim is available with either two- or four-wheel drive, and it has a maximum towing capacity of up to 6,400 pounds.
• The Toyota Tacoma Limited trim features a larger touchscreen display and includes features such as integrated navigation and a wireless charging pad.

2 Door Toyota Tacoma

Toyota makes Tacomas in 2-door and 4-door variations. Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of a double cab Toyota Tacoma. A Toyota Tacoma double cab can also be called a crew cab.

2-Door Pros

• Better off-road capabilities due to shorter wheelbase and more compact design.
• Easier to maneuver in tight spaces and navigate through urban environments.
• Less expensive than four-door models.
• Lighter weight.
• Sleek and sporty appearance.

2-Door Cons:

• Limited passenger space and cargo capacity.
• Less interior storage space than four-door models.
• Fewer features and amenities available compared to higher-end models or four-door models.
• Can be less comfortable for taller drivers or passengers due to limited legroom.
• Not ideal for long road trips or extended periods of driving due to limited space and comfort.

4 Door Toyota Tacoma

Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of a four-door Toyota Tacoma.

4-Door Pros

• The extra set of doors in a four-door Tacoma provides more space for passengers to get in and out, as well as more legroom and headroom.
• The four-door Tacoma provides more cargo space than the two-door model.
• Having two full sets of doors makes it easier to access the back seat and cargo area from either side of the vehicle.
• Four-door pickups tend to hold their value better than two-door models.

4-Door Cons

• Four-door Tacomas tend to be more expensive than their two-door counterparts
• Depending on the specific trim level and configuration, four-door Tacomas may have a longer wheelbase and larger turning radius
• With more doors, seats, and interior features, four-door Tacomas tend to be heavier than two-door models, which can impact fuel economy and towing capacity.