Toyota Tacoma

2010 Toyota Tacoma

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The Toyota Tacoma is a mid-size pickup truck available in a range of cab configurations and bed lengths. Since its inception in 1995, the truck has received numerous awards, and finding strong sales with the buying public. It's up against the Chevrolet Colorado, Dodge Dakota, Ford Ranger and Nissan Frontier, but its modern design and $16,000 to $28,000 price tag make it highly competitive in the segment.

Two generations of the Tacoma have been built since 1995. The first generation ran until 2004, offering a 2.4-liter four-cylinder, a 2.7-liter four-cylinder and a 3.4-liter V-6, rated between 142 and 190 horsepower. It has always been available in both two-wheel and four-wheel drive, with a choice of single, or extended cabs, and short or long beds. Over the initial nine-year run, the truck saw a number of special editions and limited-run packages with a few cosmetic updates as well. The second, and current, generation, saw engine displacements grow to 2.7-liters for the single four-cylinder engine now offered and 4.0-liters for the V-6. Power likewise rose to 159 horsepower and 236 horsepower, respectively. Towing capabilities of the new model also rose, from the previous 5,000 pounds to 6,500 pounds in the properly equipped V-6 model. A four-door crew cab model was also added for the new generation.

The current generation Tacoma is offered in a wide variety of configurations, including Regular Cab, Access Cab, Double Cab and X-Runner models. The X-Runner is a special high-performance version of the Tacoma, offering stiffer suspension, larger alloy wheels and summer tires for better on-road performance, as well as a body treatment to match. The three other cab models are available with either short or long beds, and two- or four-wheel drive, in a range of trims and equipment levels. The base regular cab truck starts with the minimum features, with a choice of four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmissions and standard or PreRunner trims. The PreRunner specification adds a number of offroad-friendly features, including overfenders, skid plates, mudguards and upgraded wheels and tires. Inside, the trucks upgrade along cab sizes, with the larger models adding more luxurious seating, more folding seat arrangements, and more power accessories. The range-topping Double Cab models add rear-seat amenities including cupholders, heating ducts, and a 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat.  Optional upgrades include a six-disc in-dash MP3-capable stereo system, and a convenience package including power mirrors, remote keyless entry system, cruise control, sliding rear window with privacy glass, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.

Looking ahead to 2011, the Toyota Tacoma is expected to remiain largely unchanged, with the same basic equipment and configurations carrying forward from the 2010 model year.