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.
Is the 2017 Toyota Tacoma a good car?
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2017 Toyota Tacoma and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2017 Tacoma featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
All of our reviews are written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
How do people like the 2017 Toyota Tacoma?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2017 Toyota Tacoma and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2017 Tacoma 4.5 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2017 Tacoma.
Review
Due to EPA mandated for fuel efficient vehicles, it seems little sluggish for normal operation.
See all consumer reviews and retings for the 2017 Toyota Tacoma
How can Edmunds help?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color
Is the 2017 Toyota Tacoma safe?
The 2017 Toyota Tacoma earned a 4-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and "GOOD" ratings from the IIHS in the following caregories: and a JD POWER overall quality rating of 2.0 out of 5. Among Edmunds' many tools and resources for finding your perfect car are detailed safety ratings and analysis from NHTSA, IIHS, and JD Power, including overall ratings, frontal barrier crash ratings, side impact tests and crash ratings, rollover test results, roof strength tests, rear crash protection and head restraint ratings, side barrier ratings, combined side barrier and pole ratings, and more.
What options are available on the 2017 Toyota Tacoma?
Available Toyota Tacoma 2017 Submodel Types: Double Cab, Access Cab, Regular Cab, Xtracab, Extended Cab
Available Trims: V6, TRD Sport, Base, TRD Off Road, SR5, SR, PreRunner V6, Limited, PreRunner, TRD PRO, X-Runner V6, Prerunner, Prerunner V6
Exterior Colors: Magnetic Gray Metallic, Super White, Black, Silver Sky Metallic, Barcelona Red Metallic, Silver Streak Mica, Inferno, Blazing Blue Pearl, Quicksand, Radiant Red, Black Sand Pearl, Pyrite Mica, Blue Ribbon Metallic, Speedway Blue, Timberland Mica, Lunar Mist Metallic, Spruce Mica, Cement, Impulse Red Pearl, Indigo Ink Pearl, Nautical Blue Metallic, Imperial Jade Mica, Mystic Gold Metallic, Desert Sand Mica, Cardinal Red, Evergreen Pearl Metallic, Horizon Blue Metallic, Impulse Red
Interior Colors: Graphite w/Gunmetal Accent Stitching cloth, Graphite premium cloth, Cement Gray cloth, Graphite cloth, Black w/Orange Accent Stitching cloth, Graphite/Gun Metal cloth, Hickory leather, Sand Beige cloth, Black/Orange cloth, Black w/Caramel Accent Stitching cloth, Black w/Red Accent Stitching leather, Charcoal, Graphite leatherette, Graphite, Black/Red cloth, Oak, Black w/Red Accent Stitching cloth, Black/Caramel cloth, Taupe cloth, Gray
Popular Features: Rear Bench Seats, Tire Pressure Warning, Fold Flat Rear Seats, Aux Audio Inputs, Stability Control, AWD/4WD, 6000lb Towing Capacity, Bluetooth, USB Inputs, Audio and cruise controls on steering wheel, Crew Cab, Back-up camera, 6ft Bed, Trip Computer, Navigation, Keyless Entry/Start, Extended Cab, 3500lb Towing Capacity, Towing Hitch, Parking sensors, Auto Climate Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Multi-Zone Climate Control, Sunroof/Moonroof, Heated seats, Standard Cab, Upgraded Stereo, Leather Seats, 5000lb Towing Capacity, 2500lb Towing Capacity
Engine/Mechanics: 6, 4 cylinders
Transmission: AUTOMATIC, MANUAL
Fuel Types: regular unleaded, premium unleaded (recommended), premium unleaded (required)
Drivetrains: four wheel drive, rear wheel drive
Edmunds attended a manufacturer-sponsored event, to which selected members of the press were invited, to facilitate this report.
