The new Toyota Tacoma is a go-anywhere, up-for-anything truck ready to help you tackle everything from trails to job sites. What’s unique about this pickup is that it’s the only model in its class that offers a manual transmission. Backed by Toyota’s reliability, you can be certain that the Tacoma will make for a superb off-road truck. In this article, we’ll give you the full scoop on this pickup, including its performance specs, interior dimensions, and fuel economy ratings.
Pros:
– A long list of standard features
– User-friendly infotainment system
– Terrific off-road capability
– Value for money
Cons:
– Underwhelming base engine
– Stiff suspension
– Limited rear-seat space
Features and specs:
– Seats 4 to 5 passengers
– 17-20 mpg City, 20-24 mpg Highway
– RWD, 4WD
– 159 – 278 Horsepower
Dimensions and weight:
– Length: 17 feet, 8.3 inches
– Height: 5 feet, 10.6 inches
– Curb weight: 3,915 to 4,505 pounds
– Gross vehicle weight: 5,600 pounds
Performance
Ride & handling
The Tacoma handles well and has a good steering response. The ride is stiff, however, so you will feel bumps over uneven roads.
Off-road capability
The Tacoma is an excellent choice if you’re planning on hitting the trails. The TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims boast unique suspension tuning, off-road-oriented shock absorbers, a locking rear differential, and skid plates.
Towing capacity
The Tacoma can tow a maximum of 6,800 pounds with the proper towing equipment. It can carry a payload of up to 1,685 pounds.
Interiors
Cabin quality
Tacoma’s interior is a mix of quality materials and hard plastic surfaces. The cabin doesn’t quite measure up to rivals in the class, but it’s not terrible either.
Infotainment
The standard infotainment system is easy to use, with straightforward touch and physical controls. You can also connect your smartphone to the touch-screen interface through Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa.
Cargo space
Toyota offers this pickup truck in either a 6-foot-1-inch or 5-foot bed. Either way, you won’t need to buy a bed liner. The truck comes equipped with composite bed lining, a detachable tailgate, and bed rail systems with adjustable tie-downs. The available storage space in the cabin is limited to a couple of small-item bins under and behind the rear seats of Double Cabs and small under-seat compartments in Access Cabs.
Price tag
The Toyota Tacoma’s base price is $26,500. This is above average for a compact pickup truck.
NHTSA Safety rating
The 2022 Toyota Tacoma earns an overall four-star safety rating, with four stars in frontal crash and rollover tests, and scored a fantastic five stars in the side crash test.
Should you buy the Toyota Tacoma?
The Toyota Tacoma is an affordable compact pickup truck that gives you a lot of value for your dollar. It’s particularly well-suited for off-roading and can tackle most trails, especially in the TRD Off-Road or TRD Pro trims. It’s also capable of towing and hauling heavy loads without trouble. The base SR trim includes plenty of safety and technology features and is available with a more robust engine. To help you stay connected, the 2022 Tacoma offers Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa as standard features.
To sum up, if you’re looking for a truck with the capability to negotiate rough terrain and a cabin full of high-tech gadgetry, the Tacoma is well worth a look.