Vehicle Overview
The Toyota Tacoma, redesigned in 2016, has stuck closely to its formula for two decades. Though it doesn't represent a revolution in truck design, this newest Tacoma has plenty of appeal for those shoppers who don't want the bulk or inconvenience of a regular full-size pickup.
You can pick either a four-cylinder or a V6 engine as well as either an extended-cab or crew-cab body style. Interestingly, all rear-wheel-drive Tacomas share the raised ride height of the four-wheel-drive (4WD) variants, but the 4WD Tacoma's ability to do things off-road has never been greater. The TRD Off-Road variant (with the automatic transmission) has Toyota's Crawl Control driver aid system, and for 2017 there is a new TRD Pro model with even more off-road-oriented equipment. Other appealing qualities include Toyota's latest touchscreen interfaces, a standard lockable damped tailgate and an available tri-fold hard tonneau cover.
It adds up to a midsize pickup that has earned its stripes. That said, the new 2017 Honda Ridgeline is absolutely worth your attention. Though not as off-road-oriented as the Tacoma, the Ridgeline counters with a roomier cab and superior refinement and on-road manners. We're also fond of the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon. These General Motors midsizers are better suited for taller drivers and offer superior V6 performance as well as a class-exclusive diesel engine option. The only other entry in the segment is the Nissan Frontier, but it's long overdue for a redesign.
Powertrains and Performance
The 2017 Toyota Tacoma comes with either a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine (SR and SR5 only) or a 3.5-liter V6. Both rear-wheel-drive (2WD), and four-wheel-drive (4WD) configurations are available. All 2WD Tacomas get a six-speed automatic transmission, and 4WD Tacomas can be had with the automatic or one of two manual transmissions (five speeds for the four-cylinder engine, six speeds for the V6).
Tacoma 4WDs have low-range gearing. Manual-transmission TRD Off-Road models also get a special mode that allows the truck to be started in gear without depressing the clutch, thus eliminating clutch slippage and rollback while stalled going uphill.
The 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine is rated at 159 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. EPA fuel economy ratings are21 mpg combined (19 city/23 highway) for the 2WD automatic, 20 mpg combined (19 city/21 highway) for the 4WD manual and 20 mpg combined (19 city/22 highway) for the 4WD automatic.
The V6's output jumps up to 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. EPA estimates for a V6 2WD Tacoma (automatic) are21 mpg combined (19 city/24 highway). A V6 4WD Tacoma returns 18 mpg combined (17 city/21 highway) with the manual (18 mpg Double Cab) or 20 mpg combined (18 city/23 highway) with the automatic.
In Edmunds performance testing of two TRD Off-Road Double Cab V6 models with the automatic, we recorded an average acceleration time to 60 mph of 8.3 seconds, which is slower than the four-wheel-drive Colorado V6. A TRD Sport Double Cab V6 we tested hit 60 in a slightly better 8.2 seconds.
Properly equipped, four-cylinder Tacomas can tow a maximum of 3,500 pounds, while V6 models can handle between 6,400 and 6,800 pounds, depending on driveline and cab configuration.
Safety
All Tacomas come with active front headrests, front-seat side airbags, driver and passenger knee airbags and full-length side curtain airbags, as well as traction and stability control and antilock brakes. Unlike most pickup trucks, the Tacoma still uses drum brakes at the rear. A blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert is optional on TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road models and standard on the Tacoma Limited and TRD Pro.
In Edmunds brake testing, a TRD Off-Road Double Cab V6 resulted in a respectable 124 feet. Oddly, a TRD Sport Double Cab V6 with more street-oriented tires stopped in 130 feet. For reference, our best-braking Colorado needed just 123 feet.
Additional Information
After a substantial revamp last year, the 2017 Toyota Tacoma continues the model's reputation for reliability, toughness and utility. And although some drivers find the interior a bit cramped compared to those of its competitors, the Tacoma ticks enough boxes that truck buyers have kept it the No. 1 seller in the midsize pickup market segment for more than 10 years.
The few changes for the Tacoma in 2017 include a new Appearance package and a standard power-sliding rear window on some models. But the big news is the addition of the TRD Pro variant, which is available only in double-cab configuration with four-wheel drive.The TRD Pro features a heavy-duty suspension, skid plates and other off-road equipment, as well as leather seats, automatic climate control and a premium infotainment system, making it ideal for buyers who want a touch of luxury as they play in the dirt.
Powerplant choices include a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 159 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque or a 3.5-liter V6 that makes 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft. All two-wheel-drive Tacomas come with a six-speed automatic transmission, and those with four-wheel drive get either the automatic or a manual gearbox.
Though adequate for light hauling around town, the four-cylinder engine will probably not be the first choice for most shoppers, especially because the fuel-economy ratings for the two engines are virtually identical. Those who like a bit more performance, haul heavy loads or tow trailers will definitely want to opt for the V6.
Available in two cab styles and two bed lengths, the 2017 Tacoma has a lot going for it, including good handling, rugged construction, and a host of options and packages that allow buyers to tailor the truck to their own needs and tastes. On the downside, compared to its rivals, the Tacoma's interior lacks headroom, and the brake feel tends to be grabby and overly sensitive.
The two-wheel-drive Tacoma equipped with the four-cylinder engine is EPA-rated at 21 mpg combined (19 city/23 highway). The six-cylinder model with the same drivetrain also returns 21 mpg combined (19 city/24 highway). Four-wheel-drive versions get about 1 mpg less, depending on the transmission.
The base SR trim level comes well equipped with such features as power windows and air-conditioning. Moving up to the SR5 adds a few more comfort and convenience items. The Limited gets buyers some extra luxury touches, while the TRD Sport and TRD Pro are equipped for off-road adventure. Whatever your preference, let Edmunds help you choose the perfect 2017 Toyota Tacoma for you.
Edmunds attended a manufacturer-sponsored event, to which selected members of the press were invited, to facilitate this report.
