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Toyota Tacoma Review

2007-06-27T04:34:36Z

71.108.61.108: /* External Links */

[[Image:tacoma_quarter.jpg|thumb|400px|'''2007 [[Toyota]] Tacoma''']]
[[Image:tacoma_xrunner.jpg|thumb|400px|'''2006 [[Toyota]] Tacoma X-runner''']]
Many reviewers rate the [[Toyota Tacoma]] the best mid-sized pickup truck on the market. The Tacoma was significantly redesigned in 2005, as were most of its closest competitors. The Tacoma is well regarded for its comfortable cab, refined ride, responsive handling, proven off-road capability, and Toyota’s reputation for quality.

See also the main fact sheets for the '''[[Toyota Tacoma]]'''.

==High Points==
* Great new design
* Larger size
* Ride is more comfortable
* Handling is good
* New composite inner bed that is non-rusting and non-denting

==Low Points==
* Manual transmission is clunky
* X-Runner version lacks handling
* Rear seats are not fit for adults

==Performance and Handling==
[[image:tacoma_engine.jpg|thumb|left|300px|'''[[Toyota]] Tacoma V6 engine''']]
The [[Toyota]] Tacoma drives well and cruises nicely, it offers plenty of power from the [[V6]], good [[Car handling|handling]] and feels relatively refined. Off-road models offer better capability over rugged terrain than previous-generation models as well as improved ride comfort.

The 4.0-liter V6 engine uses dual overhead camshafts and variable valve technology (called VVT-i) to optimize power and torque over a broad range of rpm. In action, it feels refined and delivers responsive performance. The Society of Automotive Engineers, or SAE, has changed the way power is rated, so on paper it looks like the Tacoma's power has been reduced, but in fact the engine hasn't changed from 2005. The new tests rate the 4.0-liter V6 at 236 [[horsepower]] and 266 pound-feet of [[torque]]. The Toyota V6 is more powerful than the five-cylinder engine in the [[Chevrolet Colorado]] or the base V6 in the [[Dodge Dakota]], but less powerful than the [[Nissan Frontier]].

The 4.0-liter V6 works well with the five-speed [[automatic transmission]]. The automatic is super smooth and very responsive, quickly downshifting when you mash the [[throttle]], and it offers five ratios to better keep the engine at its most efficient [[RPM|rpm]]. For it's part, the six-speed [[manual transmission]] is easy to shift, but first gear is a very low ratio, leaving a broad stretch to second. And the manual does not offer fuel economy advantages: The EPA estimates 18/22 mpg City/Highway for [[Two-wheel drive|2WD]] automatics, 17/21 for [[Four-wheel drive|4WD]] automatics; with the manual transmission the V6 managed only 16/21 with 2WD or 4WD. Toyota recommends 91 octane gas for the V6.

The 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine does offer better fuel economy than the V6 and can run on less-expensive Regular gas. EPA estimates are 21/27 mpg for 2WD with five-speed manual, 20/27 for 2WD with four-speed automatic. [[Four-wheel drive]] bogs it down, however, to just 19/23. Toyota recommends 87 octane for the four-cylinder. As with the V6, the four-cylinder benefits from VVT-i and dohc, which means it's a modern, sophisticated engine.

Handling is quite good on curvy roads. The Tacoma feels steady in sweeping turns and suffers from surprisingly little body roll, or lean, in hard corners. The Tacoma feels big on the road when compared with older compact pickups and, in fact, it is relatively large. It's wider and longer than previous-generation models. Size can be a detriment when parking, and a long-bed Double Cab can be a challenge in tight parking situations due to the amount of space it requires to turn. The Tacoma Double Cab long bed requires 44 feet to complete a circle, while a Double Cab short bed needs closer to 40 feet. A base Tacoma Regular Cab boasts a turning circle of less than 37 feet.

On pavement, the 4WD and TRD models seemed smooth and refined. A 4WD TRD model is smooth and highly capable off road. The TRD [[suspension]] is excellent on rough, rugged terrain. It handles well on rough dirt trails. The Tacoma doesn't just get there, it does it in relative comfort. It doesn't seem to generate as much head toss as earlier 4WD compact pickups, an important consideration when driving long distances over rugged terrain because one doesn’t want to arrive in the backcountry fatigued from driving.

Switching into 4WD and 4WD Lo is as easy as twisting a rotary knob. It works very well, for the most part, but it can be confused by switching the knob around underway causing the low-range lights to stay on until the car is turned off.

The Tacoma's brakes are smooth and easy to modulate and can bring it to quick halt without drama. The rear brakes are [[Drum brake|drums]], however, less desirable than the [[4-wheel disc brakes|rear disc brakes]] that come on some of the other pickups in this class.

The X-Runner is a lot of fun to drive and handles like a sports car. It corners flat and generates lots of grip in corners. It tracks well and is very stable in tight corners even when spinning the inside rear tire under full throttle. The ride is firm, but seems to ride better than the SVT Lightning. However the steering is vague on center and there was that aforementioned inside rear-wheel spin. Wind noise seems higher in the X-Runner than in the other models. But much of this is nitpicking. This is a tight, sporty truck, and probably the best of the genre. There's no cowl shake. The exhaust sounds cool. If you want a truck that can hang with a sports car, the X-Runner is the ticket.

==Gas Mileage==
As seen on [http://www.autos.com/autos/rankings_reviews?cat=trucks&segment=compact_trucks&rank=mpg&year=2007 Autos.com], in the compact truck MPG rankings, the 2007 [[Toyota Tacoma]] is in 2nd place with 20/27 MPG.

[http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/bymodel/2006_Toyota_Tacoma.shtml 2006 EPA estimates].
* 2WD 4 cyl. [[Automatic transmission|automatic]]: 21/26
* 2WD 4 cyl. manual: 20/27
* 2WD 6 cyl. [[Automatic transmission|automatic]]: 18/22
* 2WD 6 cyl. manual: 16/21
* [[Four Wheel Drive|4WD]] 4 cyl. manual: 19/23
* [[Four Wheel Drive|4WD]] 6 cyl. [[Automatic transmission|automatic]]: 17/21
* [[Four Wheel Drive|4WD]] 6 cyl. manual: 16/20

==Safety==
[[Image:Tacoma-Crash.jpg|frame|NHTSA Crash Test]]
The Toyota Tacoma comes standard with the following features:
*Driver and front passenger airbags
*4-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)
*Brake Assist
*Side-impact door beams in all doors
*Child Restraint System (CRS)

The Tacoma received '''5 out of 5 stars''' for driver and passenger front and side crash tests from the National Highway Safety Administration [http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/ncap/cars/3727.html (NHSA)]

==Reliability and Maintenance==
The Tacoma maintains [[Toyota]]’s reputation for quality and continues to serve its owners trouble free. Above and beyond regular scheduled maintenance, the Toyota Tacoma needs little more to keep it running trouble free for many years.

==Interior and Comforts==
All of the latest-generation of mid-size pickups have decent interiors, but the quality of Toyota's interior materials seems just a little better. The dimpled material on the dash and upper panels and the textured material on the lower dash and door trim look nice; it's hard plastic, but it looks soft. Not everyone loves the perforated silver plastic used for the center stack. But the cloth upholstery is decent and the seats look nice.

Bucket seats on the upper level models are comfortable, with good bolstering, though some think the seat bottom could be longer and have more thigh support. The manually adjustable seats include lumbar adjustment but no adjustment for seat height or the angle of the seat bottom. The power seats available on the [[Nissan Frontier]] have these features. Overall though, the Tacoma provides the driver with a good driving position.

Big mirrors afford a good view to the rear. Solid cup holders are provided in the center console area. The front passenger's seatback flips down to form a tray table or to make room for long objects, a handy feature on models so equipped. The switchgear is easy to operate, and everything is where you expect it to be. Big rotary knobs make it easy to adjust cabin temperature even with gloves on; the knobs are electronic, so they're easy to twist. The radio is fully integrated into the upper center stack and it's easy to operate, though the display is nearly impossible to read through polarized sunglasses. CDs sound good through the JBL speakers. We aren't thrilled with the pull-out handbrake that comes on models with [[Manual transmission|manual transmissions]], as we prefer a lever or footbrake. Models with [[Automatic transmission|automatics]] come with a foot-operated parking brake.

The rear seats in the Tacoma Double Cab are particularly comfortable for the class, offering good legroom and shoulder room and decent headroom. The seatback is angled back slightly, making it more comfortable. A younger rider should be okay to ride across the state back there and even adults won't complain too much on short trips. The rear windows go all the way down.

The rear-seat area in the Double Cab is good for carrying cargo. The back seat is split 60/40. Flip the seat bottoms forward and fold the two sections down to form a flat platform for gear. It takes two hands to do this and you first have to remove the headrests, which is a hassle, though Toyota has at least provided a place to store them. The seatbacks are hard, and form a sturdy cargo floor. It's not a bad spot for a dog, better than the bumpy floors in the Nissan Frontier and Dodge Dakota, but still a big jump down.

The Access Cab has rear seats, but they're pretty hopeless for humans. The space back there is best used for small cargo that you don't want to put in the bed.

==Exterior==
The [[Toyota]] Tacoma is an attractive truck, though not as stylish as those from [[Nissan]], [[Dodge]] and other manufacturers. Big headlights and a bold grille highlight the front of the Tacoma. Flush rear surface glass and flush surface structures between the bumper sides and body give it a polished look. PreRunner and 4x4 models are distinguished by bold overfenders.

The length of the Tacoma varies by body style: Regular Cabs are the shortest, measuring 190.4 inches overall on a 109.4-inch wheelbase. Access Cab and Double Cab short-bed models have a 127.2-inch wheelbase and 208.1-inch overall length. Double Cab long-bed models are quite long at 221.3 inches overall on a 140.9-inch wheelbase. All models have six-foot beds except the Double Cab short-bed, which has a five-foot bed.

Regular Cab models pack lots of cargo space in a relatively small package, good for maneuverability in the big city. PreRunner and 4WD Regular Cabs have the best break-over angle due to their short length and therefore offer the best capability off road. Access Cabs feature large dual rear auxiliary doors, not good for people but very good for gear. Double Cabs have long, conventionally hinged rear doors that open 80 degrees for ease of entry or loading gear. Double Cabs offer the comfort of a sport-utility; the long-bed Double Cabs can carry more stuff but are unwieldy in tight places.

Tacoma comes with a composite inner bed, lighter than steel yet tougher and more durable. The bed features two-tier loading and an integrated deck rail utility system with four adjustable tie-down cleats. The rails are compatible with Genuine Toyota Accessories, including cargo bed cross bars, a fork-mount bike rack, and diamond-plate storage boxes.

==Styles and Options==
The [[Toyota]] Tacoma comes in three body styles: '''Regular Cab''', '''Access Cab''' (extended cab), '''Double Cab''' (crew cab), and '''PreRunner'''. The "PreRunner" version is a [[Two-wheel drive|2WD]] model that has the looks and heavy-duty suspension of the [[Four Wheel Drive|4WD]] models. Each is available with [[Two-wheel drive|two-wheel]] or [[Four Wheel Drive|four-wheel drive]].

Toyota's Access Cab "'''X-Runner'''" is the sport version of the Tacoma. It comes with sportier looks, a [[V6]] engine, tuned [[suspension]], and a 6-speed [[Manual transmission|manual]] gearbox.

[[Toyota]] also offers 10 packages to choose from: '''HE''', '''BZ''', '''BY''', '''CP''', '''SE''', '''SL''', '''OC''', '''PY''', '''PM''', and the '''V6 Towing Package'''.

===HE===
[[image:tacoma_access.jpg|thumb|350px|'''Access Cab 4x4 V6''']]
'''The Enhancement Package includes:'''
*Defroster-linked air conditioning
*15-in. steel wheels
*P215/70R15 tires

===BZ===
'''The Standard Package #1 includes:'''
*Defroster-linked air conditioning
*Sliding rear window

===BY===
[[image:tacoma_interior.jpg|thumb|350px|'''Access Cab interior shown in Graphite''']]
'''The Standard Package #2 includes:'''
*Defroster-linked conditioning
*Bucket seats
*Center console
*Sliding rear window

===CP===
'''The Convenience Package includes:'''
*Power windows/door locks/outside mirrors
*Remote keyless entry system
*Cruise control
*Sliding rear window with privacy glass (not available on Regular Cab)

===SE===
[[image:tacoma_sr5.jpg|thumb|350px|'''Regular Cab 4x4 with SR5 Package #1''']]
'''The SR5 Package #1 includes:'''
*All of Standard Package #2
*Chrome grille surround and rear bumper
*Color-keyed front bumper and overfenders
*Metallic-tone instrument panel trim
*Variable intermittent windshield wipers
*Sun visors with sliding extensions
*Vanity mirror
*SR5 badging
*Upgraded seat fabric

===SL===
[[image:tacoma_interior2.jpg|thumb|350px|'''Double Cab 4x4 interior shown in Graphite''']]
'''The SR5 Package #2 includes:'''
*All of Convenience Package #1
*Chrome grille surround and rear bumper
*Color-keyed front bumper
*Color-keyed overfenders (PreRunner and 4x4 models only)
*Metallic-tone instrument panel trim
*Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift lever
*Variable intermittent windshield wipers
*Sun visors with sliding extensions
*Vanity mirror
*SR5 badging
*Upgraded seat fabric
*Driver's seat with lumbar support
*Fog lamps (V6 models only).

===OC===
[[image:tacoma_mud.jpg|thumb|350px|'''Double Cab 4x4 V6 with Off-Road Package''']]
'''The TRD Off-Road Package includes:'''
*All of SR5 Package #2
*Off-road tuned suspension with Bilstein shocks
*16-in. alloy wheels
*P265/70R16 BFGoodrich Rugged Trail T/A tires
*Locking rear differential
*Engine skidplate
*Fuel tank protector
*Front tow hook
*115V/400-watt deck mounted power outlet
*Multi-function overhead console with compass and temperature gauge
*Sport seats with sport fabric
*Driver's lumbar support
*TRD Off-Road graphics (V6 models)

===PY===
'''The TRD Sport Package #1 includes:'''
*Sport suspension with Bilstein shocks
*17-in. alloy wheels
*P265/65R17 tires
*Limited-slip rear differential
*115V/400-watt deck-mounted power outlet
*Fog lamps
*Power windows/door locks/outside mirrors
*Remote keyless entry system
*Cruise control
*Variable intermittent windshield wipers
*Multi-function overhead console with compass and outside temperature gauge
*Color-keyed grille surround/bumpers/mirrors/door handles/overfenders
*Sliding rear window with privacy glass
*Sport seats
*Driver’s lumbar support
*Sport fabric trim
*Metallic-tone instrument panel trim
*Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter
*Sun visors with sliding extensions
*Vanity mirror
*Hood scoop
*TRD Sport graphics (V6 models)

===PM===
'''The TRD Sport Package #2 includes:'''
*All of TRD Sport Package #1
*Auto-dimming electrochromic rearview mirror

===V6 Towing Package===
'''The V6 Towing Package includes:'''
*Class-4 towing hitch
*Transmission oil cooler (automatic transmission models)
*Supplemental engine oil cooler
*Heavy-duty battery
*130-amp alternator
*7-pin connector with converter

==Main Competitors==
* [[Chevrolet Colorado|Chevy Colorado]]: [http://www.carsdirect.com/research/compareresults?acodes=USB70TOT091A0,USB70CHT351A0 side-by-side comparison]
* [[Ford Ranger]]: [http://www.carsdirect.com/research/compareresults?acodes=USB70TOT091A0,USB70FOT141A0 side-by-side comparison]
* [[Chevrolet Colorado|GMC Canyon]]: [http://www.carsdirect.com/research/compareresults?acodes=USB70TOT091A0,USB70GMT221E0 side-by-side comparison]
* [[Mazda B2300]]: [http://www.carsdirect.com/research/compareresults?acodes=USB70TOT091A0,USB70MAT081A0 side-by-side comparison]
* [[Dodge Dakota]]: [http://www.carsdirect.com/research/compareresults?acodes=USB70TOT091A0,USB70DDT073A0 side-by-side comparison]
* [[Nissan Frontier]]: [http://www.carsdirect.com/research/compareresults?acodes=USB70TOT091A0,USB70NIT121A0 side-by-side comparison]

==External Links==
'''''WikiCars Contributor Favorites'''''

'''''Toyota Manufacturer Sites'''''
* [http://www.toyota.com/tacoma/index.html Toyota Tacoma] - Official US Site

'''''Community Sites'''''
* [http://www.tacomaworld.com Tacoma World] - Tacoma Owners & Enthusiasts
* [http://www.tacomaterritory.com Tacoma Territiory] - Toyota off-roading community
* [http://www.customtacos.com CustomTacos] - Custom Tacomas
* [http://resanium.com/news/categ-Toyota_Tacoma-128.html resanium.com] - Toyota Tacoma Reviews

[[Category:Model Reviews]]

Toyota Tacoma

2007-06-27T04:19:18Z

71.108.61.108: /* External Links */

The '''[[Toyota]]''' Tacoma is one the best selling compact pick-up trucks available in the U.S. It is manufactured at the NUMMI plant in California, which also makes the [[Toyota Corolla]] and is known for high quality and employee involvement. The Tacoma, which is an Indian word for Mount Rainer, was originally introduced in the U.S. market in 1995 in an effort by the [[Toyota|Toyota Motor Corporation]] to compete more aggressively in the compact truck market. Since its introduction, the Tacoma has been through several iterations, the latest major upgrades occuring in 2005 which earned it '''Motor Trend'''s "''Truck of the Year''" award.

See WikiCars' comprehensive [[Toyota Tacoma Review|'''Toyota Tacoma Review''']].
[[Image:Tacoma.jpg|frame|'''2006 Toyota Tacoma''']]
===Recent Changes===
Coming off of a major redesign in 2005, there are no significant changes to the Tacoma in 2006.

===Styles and Major Options===
* The 2006 Toyota Tacoma comes in three body styles: Regular Cab, Access Cab (extended cab) and Double Cab (crew cab). Each is available with two-wheel or [[Four Wheel Drive|four-wheel drive]].

* The standard features on the regular cab include a CD player, a full-size spare tire and a tachometer.

* Standard features on the access cab include those on the regular cab plus bucket seats, air conditioning and a pair of rear access doors.

* The double cab has the same features as the access cab plus keyless entry and power windows, locks and mirrors.

* Tacomas are also available in a "PreRunner" version, which is a 2WD model that has the looks and heavy-duty suspension of the [[Four Wheel Drive|4WD]] models.

* The optional SR5 package features color-keyed and chrome trim, intermittent wipers and upgraded interior trim.

* The available TRD Sport package includes performance suspension and upgraded tires, while the TRD Off-Road package features meaty tires and heavy-duty off-road suspension.

===Pricing===
2006 4x2 Regular Cab
* Base MSRP: $14,585
* Base PreRunner MSRP: $15,455

2006 4x2 Access Cab
* Base MSRP: $18,025
* PreRunner 4 cyl. MSRP: $18,785
* PreRunner 6 cyl. MSRP: $20,240
* X-Runner MSRP: $24,350

2006 4x2 Double Cab
* PreRunner 127.8 inch wheelbase MSRP: $22,845
* PreRunner 140.9 inch wheelbase MSRP: $23,345

2006 [[Four Wheel Drive|4x4]] Regular Cab
* Base MSRP: $18,530

2006 [[Four Wheel Drive|4x4]] Access Cab
* Base 4 cyl. MSRP: $21,860
* Base 6 cyl. MSRP: $23,415

2006 [[Four Wheel Drive|4x4]] Double Cab
* Base 127.8 inch wheelbase MSRP: $25,040
* Base 140.9 inch wheelbase MSRP: $26,420

Today's actual prices by city can be found at [http://www.carsdirect.com/buildyourcar/zipcode?make=TO&modelid=237 CarsDirect].

===Gas Mileage===
EPA estimates [http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/bymodel/2006_Toyota_Tacoma.shtml].
<table border=1 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccf>
<td colspan=10>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=fffccc>
<td>
2WD 4cyl. Auto
</td>
<td>
2WD 4-cyl. Manual
</td>
<td>
2WD 6cyl. Auto
</td>
<td>
2WD 6cyl. Manual
</td>
<td>
[[Four Wheel Drive|4WD]] 4cyl. Auto
</td>
<td>
[[Four Wheel Drive|4WD]] 4cyl. Manual
</td>
<td>
[[Four Wheel Drive|4WD]] 6cyl. Auto
</td>
<td>
[[Four Wheel Drive|4WD]] 6cyl. Manual
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccf>
<td colspan=10>
'''Gas Mileage'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=10>
''City''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=fffccc>
<td>
21
</td>
<td>
20
</td>
<td>
18
</td>
<td>
16
</td>
<td>
N/A
</td>
<td>
19
</td>
<td>
17
</td>
<td>
16
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=10>
''Highway''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=fffccc>
<td>
26
</td>
<td>
27
</td>
<td>
22
</td>
<td>
21
</td>
<td>
N/A
</td>
<td>
23
</td>
<td>
21
</td>
<td>
20
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Reliability===
[http://jdpower.com/autos/build/index.asp?make=Toyota JD Power and Associates] give the 2005 an overall quality rating of 3 out of 5, indicating that it is about average for others in it's class. 2006 data is not currently avaiable.

===Safety===
Standard safety features include:
* Driver and front passenger airbags with Advanced Airbag System
* 4-wheel Anti-lock Brake System ([[Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)|ABS]]) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution ([[Electronic Brake-Force Distribution|EBD]]) and Brake Assist
* Driver and front passenger seatbelts with pretensioner, force limiters and adjustable shoulder anchors
* 3-point seatbelts in all front seating positions with driver-side Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) and front passenger [[Automatic transmission|Automatic]]/Emergency Locking Retractor (ALR/ELR)
* 3-point seatbelts with ELR and ALR in all rear seating positions
* Side-impact door beams in all doors
* Child Restraint System (CRS) lower anchors -- front passenger seat on Regular Cab, front and rear passenger seat on Access Cab and rear outboard seats on Double Cab
* Child Restraint System (CRS) top tether anchors -- passenger and center front seat on Regular Cab with bench seat, passenger seat on Regular Cab with bucket seats, passenger seat on Access Cab and all rear seating positions on Double Cab
* Child-protector rear door locks
* Power window lockout

===Photos===
Exterior and interior photos of the 2006 Tacoma.[http://www.carsdirect.com/toyota/tacoma/pictures]

===Colors===
[http://www.carsdirect.com/toyota/tacoma/colors Colors] vary by trim but include:
* Super White
* Radiant Red
* Indigo Ink Pearl
* Desert Sand Mica
* Black Sand Pearl
* Silver Streak Mica
* Speedway Blue
* Impulse Red Pearl

===Main Competitors===
Main competitors in the compact truck market include:
* [[Chevrolet Colorado]]
* [[Dodge Dakota]]
* [[Ford Ranger]]
* [[GMC Canyon]]
* [[Mazda B2300]]
* [[Mitsubishi Raider]]
* [[Nissan Frontier]]

==Unique Attributes==
In addition to its rugged off-road models, Toyota developed a high performance version of the Tacoma, the X-Runner. The X-Runner name comes from its exclusive "X-braced" reinforced frame that provides enhanced rigidity. This sports-truck is powered by a 245-[[HP|horsepower]] 4.0-liter [[V6|V6]] engine, which allows for acceleration form zero-to-60 in under seven seconds. The X-Runner has full ground effects surrounding the vehicle, a hood scoop, and integrated fog lamps. It is only offered in three colors: Radiant Red, Black Sand, and Speedway Blue. The X-Runner suspension was lowered one inch versus the standard Tacoma frame and comes with 255/45R18 Bridgestone Potenza performance tires on 18-inch alloy wheels.

==Resale Values==
Toyota dealers generally won't haggle too much on price but because of Tacoma's reputation for quality and reliability, late model used Tacoma's sell for almost as much as new ones.

==Criticisms==

The design of the bed uses a composite material as the inside
layer. This makes it impossible to fit a truck rack on top of the
bed rails.

==Current Generation: (2005–present)==
* The new Tacoma’s are larger than the previous generation. The Regular Cab 4x2 models are built on a new 109.4-inch wheelbase (an increase of 5.9-inches). The 4x2 Access Cab models are on a 127.2-inch wheelbase (an increase of 5.3-inches). The new Double Cab long-bed models are on a 140.9-inch wheelbase.

* Front and rear track have been widened by nearly four inches.

* The Tacoma Access Cab models received new dual rear access doors.

* Rear doors on Double Cab models are more than three inches longer than before and open to 80 degrees.

The double cab models also feature overall less interior room than it's primary competior the Nissan Frontier

* Tacoma offers a stronger, stiffer chassis and improved maneuverability.

* New suspension and steering tuning improve off-road performance and on-road ride and handling.

* Two new engines are available: a new 2.7-liter VVT-i [[Overhead Camshafts|DOHC]] four-cylinder engine that produces 164 [[HP|horsepower]] and 183 lb-ft. of torque and a revised 4.0-liter VVT-i [[Overhead Camshafts|DOHC]] [[V6|V6]] that produces 245 [[HP|horsepower]] and 282 lb-ft. of torque (replacing the 190-[[HP|hp]] 3.4-liter [[V6|V6]] in the 2004 models). Both feature a new Electronic Throttle Control System with intelligence (ETCS-i) that helps improve performance and fuel economy.

* Towing capacity improved with the [[V6|V6]]-models which can now tow up to 6,500 pounds, a 30-percent increase over the 5,000-lb towing capacity of the 2004 [[V6|V6]] models.

===Second generation (1995-2004)===
* The all-new model had a driver-side airbag, and featured new interior and exterior styling.

* Tacoma had three engines available, two 4-cylinders and a [[V6|V6]]. The new engines included a 142-[[HP|horsepower]] dual-overhead-cam 2.4-liter, a 150-[[HP|horsepower]] dual-overhead-cam 2.7-liter, and a 190-[[HP|horsepower]] dual-overhead cam 3.4-liter [[V6|V6]].

* The Tacoma also came with a redesigned chassis and suspension and came with rack-and-pinion steering in place of the previous recirculating ball system.

* Later came a new off-road package that included a locking rear differential.

* In early 2000, the 4-door Double Cab was introduced with four front-opening doors and a 60/40 folding rear bench seat. All models got a restyled front end with a raised hood and prominent grille. Also added was a new S-Runner model--a manual-transmission [[V6|V6]] PreRunner Xtracab with stiffer springs, premium shock absorbers, color-keyed exterior, and special interior appointments.

===First Generation/Origins===
The original Toyota pickup was the 1935 G1, which was a 1.5 ton stake-bed commercial truck. After World War II, Toyota returned with a compact pickup truck, the Toyopet Model SB. This remained in production from 1947 through 1963. Toyota entered the American market with the 1964 introduction of the Stout. It was larger than the similar Datsun and Mazda compact trucks at the time, and looked like a [[Chevrolet|Chevrolet]] C/K. The Hi-Lux name was coined in 1969, but it was a “highly-luxurious” vehicle only when compared to the Stout. The only body style was a regular cab short bed and all were rear-wheel drive. In 1975 the Hi-Lux name was dropped and replaced by “Pickup Truck.” There were many iterations of the “Pickup” Truck from the mid 70’s all the way up to 1995 when the Tacoma was introduced as Toyota’s ninth generation pickup.

==Worldwide==

==Design quirks and oddities==

==Awards==
The 2005 redesigned Tacoma was named '''Motor Trend''' magazine's ''Truck of the Year'' for overall design, fuel efficiency and reliability.

==See also==
==External Links==
* [http://www.toyota.com/tacoma/index.html Official Toyota Tacoma Website]
* [http://www.tacomaworld.com Tacoma World Forums]
* [http://www.tacomaterritory.com Tacoma Territiory]
* [http://www.customtacos.com CustomTacos]
* [http://resanium.com/news/categ-Toyota_Tacoma-128.html Toyota Tacoma Reviews]

This page uses content from Wikipedia; see [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_Tacoma Toyota Tacoma], which includes these [http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Toyota_Hilux&action=history contributors].

[[Category:Current Models]]
[[Category:Toyota Vehicles|Tacoma]]
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[[Category:1990s Automobiles]]
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