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The Toyota Tacoma is a midsize pickup truck that boasts unique capability. The Taco is a legendary off-road truck that has made a name for itself by taking the road less traveled. The Tacoma has its strengths but does it get good gas mileage?

The Toyota Tacoma has average gas mileage for its size

A green 2022 Toyota Tacoma is driving off-road.
The 2022 Toyota Tacoma | Toyota

The Toyota Tacoma’s fuel efficiency is decent for its vehicle segment. The midsize pickup truck achieves 20 miles per gallon in the city and 23 miles per gallon on the highway. It isn’t exactly breaking any records, but the Tacoma’s fuel economy is competitive enough to make consumers consider it over rivals.

The popular Honda Ridgeline midsize pickup truck gets 18 miles per gallon in the city and 24 miles per gallon on the highway. The Ford Ranger, another rival small pickup, gets 21 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles per gallon.

Pickup trucks don’t normally have stellar fuel economy, so the Tacoma’s gas mileage passes for average in its vehicle segment. If you want incredible fuel economy the Ford Maverick is the way to go.

The Tacoma excels at off-roading

A green 2022 Toyota Tacoma is driving off-road.
The 2022 Toyota Tacoma | Toyota

The Toyota Tacoma is exceptional at off-roading. Many consumers buy Tacos to take out on trails and conquer obstacles. The Tacoma has risen in popularity alongside the off-roading pastime because of its unique design. It is lightweight and has a peppy powertrain.

The Tacoma has a whopping 9.4-inches of ground clearance. Its high ground clearance allows the small pickup truck to avoid being severely damaged by certain obstacles that can’t reach the vehicle’s mechanical components.

Drivers modify Tacos with lift kits and off-road tires to add even more capability to the small pickup. Toyota now offers several Tacoma trims that focus on off-road capability including the TRD Off-Road model. The Taco is born to be wild, and it’s enjoying amazing sales because of its rebellious nature. There are very few affordable pickup trucks on the market that can compete with its off-roading prowess.

Should you buy a 2022 Toyota Tacoma?

A red 2022 Toyota Tacoma is towing a small trailer.
The 2022 Toyota Tacoma | Toyota

According to iSeeCars.com, the Tacoma is one of the longest-lasting light pickup trucks. The Taco retains its value incredibly well over time. Kelley Blue Book claims that a 2018 Tacoma with under 60,000 miles has a fair purchase price of $24,854.

Used Tacoma models sold for more money than new models at the height of the global pandemic. These small trucks are built to last and are as popular as ever. The 2022 Toyota Tacoma starts at $26,700. Car and Driver recommends the TRD Off-Road trim starting at $34,890 because of its enhanced capability. If you value wild rides and adventures over comfort and refinement, the Tacoma is an amazing midsize pickup truck. It has many great qualities. Its fuel economy isn’t one of them.

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