Everywhere you look, it seems like another Toyota Tacoma has magically appeared on the road. These trucks are everywhere! But it seems like a lot of them fill up used car lots as well. So, what’s so great about them? Or is the Tacoma merely overrated? 

What’s So Great About The Toyota Tacoma? 

The Tacoma scores early in the game by being an affordable option. The 2020 base model starts around $25k. Other mid-sized trucks, like the Ford Ranger, are similar in price, though. However, the Nissan Frontier comes in at around $19k. 

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Toyota Tacoma averages fair with its truck competitors. It receives an average of up to 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. This is the same fuel efficiency as the Frontier and a little below the Ranger. The Ranger gets up to 21 mpg on the highway and 26 mpg in the city. 

Toyota Tacoma Power 

Let’s look under the hood at the Tacoma’s engine. The standard is a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine pumps out 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. This engine sounds weak at first but provides a maximum towing compacity of 3,500 lb. 

With a higher trim option, you can go for the 3.5-liter V6 engine with an output of 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. The increase in power that this engine provides bumps the Tacoma’s towing compacity up to 6,400 lb. 

The Tacoma can tow the same amount of weight as the Frontier, but the Ford Ranger can only tow up to 3,500 lb. 

Toyota Tacoma Off-Roading Specs 

Also, the Tacoma sits up high with a ground clearance of 9.4”. This gives it a lot of room for crawling over obstacles. 

The base model has an approach angle of 29-degrees, a 24-degree break-over angle, and a 23-degree departure angle. With the TRD Pro trim option, these numbers only increase. 

The Crawl Control is an exciting Tacoma feature that assists you in crawling over tough obstacles by automatically modulating the throttle and brakes for enhanced control. 

Plus, the electronically locking rear differential distributes engine power to make sure the rear wheels have an equal ability for a better grip to prevent slippage. 

The Multi-Terrain Select feature has five different off-roading driving modes to select from to help you adjust to changing terrain automatically. The system senses the right amount of power and braking pressure to easily traverse through various conditions. 

These features, combined with the Bilstein Shocks and Multi-terrain Monitor, provide a smooth ride and peace of mind. You get a 360 view on the monitor to see exactly where your tires will land.

Toyota Tacoma Features 

The Toyota Tacoma is pretty average in terms of interior tech. The infotainment center can connect to Apple Car Play and Android Auto, but there are only two USB ports to utilize. 

However, you can connect your smartphone and smartwatch to your truck to lock the doors, start the engine, locate your vehicle, and more with a simple touch of a button. The Tacoma also serves as a Wifi hotspot so you can stay connected. 

So, what’s so great about the Tacoma? It’s a reasonably priced truck that’s extremely capable for off-roading. It has advanced crawling features and up to date tech that allows you to get work done with an advanced feeling truck.