The Tacoma has been on the roads since 1995, This model has seen a lot of changes to be the best model that it can be. We’ll be taking a closer look at the generations and the models of this truck within them to see what the best year for a used Toyota Tacoma is.
Key Takeaways:
- The Tacoma isn’t your standard pickup, instead, it’s geared towards off-road prowess.
- The Tacoma is a decent daily driver with decent mileage and excellent safety.
- 2020 saw the most additions to creature comforts, making anything from this point, and after, the ones you want.
Second Generation (2004-2015)
This is the first new generation of the 2000s, and after a trial-and-error first generation, this is where it starts to find itself. This generation saw a better Tacoma than the generation prior.
Coming in 18 different combinations, thanks to bed lengths, transmissions, engines, and cab configurations, you can get whatever you want.
2006 saw some minor changes, with them mainly being some optional features that are now standard. 2012 saw the first major changes. These are new interior looks, as well as a new antenna for the SiriusXM Satellite radio. The SR trim joined the lineup in 2015, while the regular cab was discontinued.
The two engines that were offered this year were the 2.7L I4 and the 4.0L V6. While the V6 was more powerful at 245 horsepower, the I4 was more fuel efficient. The 2.7L I4 had an EPA-rated 21 MPG.
If off-road performance is your thing, the Tacoma has you covered. It features a ton of off-road-focused packages and trims. The trim is the X-Runner. This came with the 4.0L V6 that is paired with a manual transmission. It comes with 18-inch wheels and is lowered by two inches.
The packages you can find are the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road. While the Sport package tackles the road, the Off-Road package tears up the trails. Making this the perfect package for off-road enthusiasts.
For something a bit more unique, there’s the TRD Extreme and T/X Baja. The Baja package was only outfitted on 1500 units. It came with upgraded lifted suspension, TRD Bilstein coil-overs at the front, and TRD Bilstein reservoir shocks at the back. The truck was also equipped with All-Terrain tires, as well as a unique exhaust, and shift knob.
Third Generation (2016-2023)
This generation was similar to the one before it, but that doesn’t mean that it’s a carryover. You can find a new, larger touchscreen display and a new instrument panel. The hard plastics that were on the vehicle in the years prior were now replaced with soft-touch materials.
To help make driving more comfortable, the sound insulation was improved, thanks to better insulated doors, additional weather stripping, and an acoustic windshield. This year also saw the addition of Dual Climate control for the first time. This helps keep you and your passengers comfortable.
Things weren’t all good, though. This was due to the 2016 and 2017 models’ steering wheels having reduced functionality. This made it harder to browse phone contacts or select songs. This was later changed in 2018.
2020 saw the addition of some more modern features. These include wireless phone connectivity and Amazon Alexa capability. If you find a model that is the SR5 or higher, you’re treated to a power-adjustable driver’s seat. Some will be outfitted with a Panoramic View Monitor if you find a Limited Double Cab. This provides a 360-degree view of your surroundings.
While the 2.7L I4 remains the same as the generation before, a new 3.5L V6 was added. While still not being able to compete on fuel economy, this engine produces 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque.
Some models after 2021 may have a TRD Lift Kit. This was a dealer-installed option and increased ground clearance by 1.7 inches.
This model came with 6 trims. The trims are the SR, SR5, TRD Off-Road, TRD Sport, Limited, and TRD Pro. If you find yourself looking at an Off-Road trim, you’ll find that it comes with a terrain management system. This lets you choose between loose rock, mud, and sand. Helping you conquer whatever Mother Nature has in store.
Fourth Generation (2024-Present)
This generation came in 8 trims, with 6 of them being carryovers. The new trims you can look for are the Trailhunter and the PreRunner.
The Trailhunter is the more unique trim. This is because it comes with a suspension designed by ARB using Old Man Emu components. On the exterior, you can also find a snorkel engine air intake.
This generation, the XtraCab is a two-door, two-seat configuration. Now long coming with rear jump seats. Toyota opted to include an interior lockable cargo storage area instead.
Unlike other generations, this one only comes with one engine option. This is the 2.4L I4, and depending on the trim and transmission, you’ll get more power. On the low-end, you’ll get 228 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque, while on the high-end, you’ll get 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque.
Thanks to the new build of the Tacoma, the 2024 model got Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.
Is Buying a Used Toyota Tacoma Worth the Money?
With so many options and configurations for this much desired truck, the easiest way to get what you want is to come on down to an Alan Jay location today!