Skip to main content
A Toyota Tacoma with white paint on display at an auto show.

The 2019 Toyota Tacoma Stinks Compared To The 2020 Model

Alright, we know that you can get an excellent deal on used trucks and 2019 models right now. But be careful. There are particular 2019 trucks you need to avoid, including the 2019 Toyota Tacoma. The 2020 Tacoma has so many essential updates that you would be missing out on.  Avoid The 2019 Toyota Tacoma  …

Alright, we know that you can get an excellent deal on used trucks and 2019 models right now. But be careful. There are particular 2019 trucks you need to avoid, including the 2019 Toyota Tacoma. The 2020 Tacoma has so many essential updates that you would be missing out on. 

Avoid The 2019 Toyota Tacoma 

The 2019 Toyota Tacoma  Infotainment Center Is Lacking 

Drivers complain of the infotainment center in the 2019 Tacoma because it just didn’t feel like an upgrade. It also lacked basic features that other trucks have like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

2019 Toyota Tacoma Off-Road
2019 Toyota Tacoma Off-Road | Toyota

Now in the 2020 Tacoma, there is an upgraded 8” infotainment center that can connect to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This will make it easier to connect to navigation and stream podcasts or music from your phone. 

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma can also connect to Alexa for hands-free commands, such as starting the engine and unlocking the doors. 

Also, the Toyota Smart Key passive entry now works on the passenger door side too. 

A new 2020 Toyota Tacoma on display at an auto show
2020 Toyota Tacoma on display | Raymond Boyd/Getty Images

The 2019 Toyota Tacoma Has An Older Look 

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma looks sharper and more confident. It has a revised front grille and new LDR/DRL headlights on all trim options except for the SR. Plus, the taillights have darker casings. 

With the 2020 Tacoma, you can take advantage of the new LED lights in the truck bed and enjoy new wheel designs as well. 

2021 Toyota Tacoma refresh | Toyota
2021 Toyota Tacoma refresh | Toyota

These design updates may be minimal, but arguably the Toyota Tacoma is still pretty awesome looking. It doesn’t need a total redesign yet. 

The 2019 Toyota Tacoma Has Less Off-Roading Features 

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma has been updated to be even more beastly while off-roading with a unique army green color that’s now available. 

It also has lighter wheels and a Multi-Terrain Monitor that allows you to see under your truck to know exactly where your wheels will land. 

The new 360 panoramic view camera is available as well, giving you the ability to see all around your truck to avoid obstacles. 

But the most significant off-roading update includes better shocks. The 2019 model has Bilstein shocks, which are pretty good. 

Serious off-roaders will also enjoy the electronically locking rear differential to help them out if they get stuck. 

However, the 2020 Tacoma has TRD-tuned high-performance 2.5 internal bypass shocks. Fox shocks are generally much preferred to Bilstein ones. 

The 2019 Toyota Tacoma Lacks Comfort 

The 2019 Toyota Tacoma only has leather-trimmed seats. They’re a mix of cloth and leather accents. 

However, now the 2020 Toyota Tacoma offers large padded seats to increase comfort. The seats also incorporate lumbar support. Plus, the front driver’s seat has a 10-way power support system. 

Another bonus includes the dual-zone climate control in the front of the truck, allowing the driver and passengers to set different temperatures for their comfort. 

Toyota Tacoma Interior
Toyota Tacoma Interior

The interior now includes soft-touch materials and leather-trimmed surfaces to enhance the look and feel. 

Hidden storage areas that are out of sight and lockable also help keep your items safe and provide more space. You can place tools in the storage bins instead of carrying them in your cab. 

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma has so many significant, smart, and comfortable updates that the savings with a 2019 model aren’t worth it.