Toyota, Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma is a compact pickup truck that has been in production since 1995. It was designed to be a rugged and reliable work truck, but its popularity among outdoor enthusiasts and off-road enthusiasts has led to its development into a capable and feature-rich vehicle.

Body Styles

The Toyota Tacoma is available in two body styles: Access Cab (extended cab) and Double Cab (crew cab). The Access Cab features a shorter bed with a larger rear seat area, while the Double Cab offers a longer bed and more passenger space. A three-door truck is also available for those who prioritize access to the bed.

Trim Levels

The Tacoma comes in several trim levels, each offering varying degrees of equipment and features:

1. SR: The base model, which provides a no-frills driving experience.
2. SR5: An upgrade from the SR, featuring added amenities like power windows, mirrors, and locks.
3. TRD Sport: A sport-tuned suspension system, unique styling elements, and an optional V6 engine.
4. TRD Off-Road: Designed for off-road enthusiasts, this trim features a more aggressive suspension setup, skid plates, and a locking rear differential.
5. Limited: The highest-end model, offering premium amenities like leather-trimmed seats, navigation, and a moonroof.

Powertrains

The Toyota Tacoma is available with two engines:

1. 2.7L 4-cylinder: Producing 159 horsepower, this engine is suitable for light-duty tasks.
2. 3.5L V6: Delivering 278 horsepower, this engine provides more power and towing capacity.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The Tacoma features a six-speed automatic or manual transmission, with the option of four-wheel drive (4WD). The TRD Off-Road trim comes standard with a part-time 4x4 system, while the Limited model features a full-time AWD setup.

Safety Features

The Toyota Tacoma offers a range of advanced safety features, including:

1. Traction Control System: Helps to prevent wheelspin and loss of traction.
2. Electronic Stability Control: Enhances vehicle stability by adjusting engine power and applying the brakes as needed.
3. Blind Spot Monitoring: Warns drivers of vehicles in their blind spot.

Infotainment and Technology

The Tacoma features an Entune infotainment system, which offers a range of amenities like:

1. Touchscreen Display: A 7-inch or 6.1-inch screen that allows for navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and more.
2. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Integration: Seamlessly integrates smartphones with the vehicle's infotainment system.

Off-Road Capabilities

The Toyota Tacoma has a reputation for its impressive off-road prowess, thanks to features like:

1. Crawl Control: A low-speed control system that helps drivers navigate rough terrain.
2. Multi-Terrain Select: Allows drivers to select from various driving modes to suit their environment.

Dimensions and Capacity

The Toyota Tacoma has the following dimensions and capacity:

• Length: 212.7 inches (Access Cab), 227.5 inches (Double Cab)
• Width: 75.8 inches
• Height: 70.2 inches (Access Cab), 72.4 inches (Double Cab)
• Bed length: 60.3 inches (Access Cab), 73.6 inches (Double Cab)
• Towing capacity: Up to 6,800 pounds

Warranty and Maintenance

The Toyota Tacoma is backed by a comprehensive warranty package:

1. Basic Warranty: 36 months or 36,000 miles
2. Powertrain Warranty: 60 months or 60,000 miles
3. Corrosion Perforation Warranty: 72 months or 100,000 miles

Regular maintenance is also straightforward, with recommended service intervals every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.

Price and Competition

The Toyota Tacoma faces competition from other compact pickup trucks like the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, and Nissan Frontier. Prices for the Tacoma start around $25,000 for the base SR model and top out at over $40,000 for the Limited trim.