Since its introduction more than a decade ago, the Toyota Tacoma has been a mainstay of the compact-pickup segment. Typical advantages to a new or used Tacoma include a variety of body styles to choose from, useful off-road abilities, solid build quality and a better-than-average reputation for reliability and durability. Overall, the Toyota Tacoma is a very capable pickup and comes recommended for nearly all truck shoppers.

Current Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma is a midsize pickup truck available in a variety of body styles and trim levels. There is almost certainly a version that suits your needs, but some time will likely be required to sort through them all. Three cab styles -- regular, extended cab (Toyota calls it an Access Cab) and crew cab (Double Cab) -- are offered on the Tacoma, as well as cargo beds in short and long lengths.

With a body style selected, one must choose a trim. In addition to the base version, there are the PreRunner and X-Runner. The PreRunner provides the look and suspension of the four-wheel-drive trucks sans the actual four-wheel-drive running gear, while the X-Runner features modifications that enhance on-street performance without giving up much utility. Of course, there's also a true off-road package for 4WD trucks aimed at buyers who plan to do serious off-highway work with their Tacomas.

For power, the Tacoma comes with either a 2.7-liter, four-cylinder engine or a 4.0-liter V6. Owners planning on frequent hauling or towing will certainly want to choose the V6. Available transmissions for the four-cylinder are either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic. V6 buyers can choose between a six-speed manual and a five-speed automatic.

In Toyota Tacoma reviews, our editors have found the truck's roomy interior, powerful V6 option and excellent off-road capability to be its best attributes. Additionally, the Double Cab version is only the compact/midsize crew cab on the market available in both short- and long-bed configurations.