Toyota Tacoma:Review the specs, features and pros & cons

Toyota Tacoma Safety

Newer Tacoma models from 2015 come with Toyota Safety Sense™ as standard, which is a system of active safety technologies focused on accident prevention. Features include Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert to sense veering and automatic toggling between high and low beams to aid with nighttime driving, as well as blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts, which detect vehicles that you otherwise might not have seen, helping to prevent potential collisions. 

 The Toyota STAR Safety System™ is standard on most new and old models. It offers the following standard features:

• Brake Assist, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution and Anti-Lock Brake System, to help with efficient braking and emergency stops
• Vehicle Stability Control to help prevent skidding and loss of control
• Active Traction Control to help when accelerating or driving on slippery surfaces

Toyota Tacoma Interior

The Toyota Tacoma comes in a range of colours and trims, with standard comforts including a leather-wrapped steering wheel on models from 2014, as well as heated front seats and all-season floor mats. Options available as an add-on or as part of an upgraded package, like the Limited, include:

• Upgraded cloth or synthetic leather upholstery
• Carpet floor mats (available with the TRD Pro trim)
• Power-sliding rear windows

Even older models, like the 2007, have a well-equipped interior, with keyless entry, a standard overhead console, and power windows and locks.
 

Toyota Tacoma Technology

Newer Toyota Tacomas from around 2016 come with a standard 4.2-inch multi-information display, Bluetooth capability and audio input via a USB port or an auxiliary jack. Additional features available with specific models and upgrade packages include:

• Larger seven-inch display
• Premium audio
• Navigation and wireless smartphone charging

Earlier Tacomas from 2007 come standard with two auxiliary power outlets and a four-speaker CD stereo, though you could upgrade to a six-speaker sound system if you opt for the Tacoma Access Cab.

Toyota Tacoma Space

Storage is abundant in the Toyota Tacoma across generations, both in the cab and the towing bed. Double-cab models come with 60/40 split fold-down rear seats and under-seat storage. Access cabs, on the other hand, offer fold-up rear seats for extra cargo capacity. Some drivers find the Tacoma’s interior tight on space, but choosing a double-cab model over an access-cab will allow you to seat five instead of four. Select a trim level with a power moonroof for even more headroom. 

Toyota Tacoma Comfort

The Tacoma offers luxurious comforts like heated leather seats, though some find the step-in height a little high. The TRD Off-Road trim is a savvy compromise if you drive on tarmac as often as you hit the dirt. It comes with the standard comforts, but you can expect a smoother off-road ride with Bilstein® shock absorbers (an upgrade on regular truck suspension) and electronically locking rear differential to adjust for wheelspin on tricky terrain. For off-roading enthusiasts, the updated TRD Pro trim level offers features that will give you a smoother ride and easier handling at higher speeds.