Toyota Tacoma
Utility meets ability |
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By Richard J. Newman
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NITS: On manual-shift models, a mug in the front cupholders can get in the way of shifting. Also: The six-cylinder version devours fuel.
G-FORCES: The base engine (not tested) is a 164-horsepower four-cylinder, which might seem a bit light on the double-cab model. Towing capacity is 3,500 pounds. The high-performance V-6, available mainly on the larger four-wheel-drive models, is a racer with towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds.
GIZMOLOGY: Dashboard controls are attractive and easy to use—but the most interesting features are elsewhere in the truck. In the "access cab" model, with truncated rear seats, and the four-door double cab, the rear seats fold flat to increase storage space. And under each are clever storage bins. There are similar small stowage areas in the cargo bed. On double-cab models, the front seat folds flat too, to add a bit more storage space. And handymen will love the optional 115-volt outlet in the truck bed, perfect for power tools.
KIDMARKS: The regular cab has no rear seat, so there's no place for children. The access cab has two miniseats equipped with seat belts, but boosters or car seats are an awkward fit—and even my 8-year-old quickly noticed how uncomfortable it is back there. The best option for kids is the full-fledged rear seat on the double cab.
HOT OR NOT: Hot. Even though it's a compact, the Tacoma has big styling.
ENVIROMETER: The EPA rates the Tacoma slightly below average to slightly above average for both air pollution and emissions, depending on the engine and drivetrain. Mileage ranges from 19 mpg/city to 27 mpg/highway for the four-cylinder, and 16/city to 22/highway for the six-cylinder. For details, go to: www.fueleconomy.gov
CRASH COURSE: Not yet crash-tested by the government or by private testing organizations.
PRICE POINTS: Base prices range from $13,955 (rear-wheel-drive regular cab) to $25,790 (four-wheel-drive double cab with elongated bed). Price as tested: $28,038.
MORE INFO: www.toyota.com
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Model year tested: 2005
I'm late for a meeting, and I have about 30 minutes to race there in a Toyota Tacoma. Out in the country, that might not sound so incongruous. But where I live, the thought of pounding through congestion, maneuvering amid 18-wheelers, and weaving along curvy expressways in a pickup truck is enough to make me call a cab.
The Tacoma, it turns out, conquers traffic as well as the trail. The compact pickup scoots from lane to lane with the manners of a corporate executive in cowboy boots, civilized but not overgentrified. The 245-horsepower V-6 engine, one step up from the base power plant, moves the truck with the kind of urgency you're supposed to feel when you're late. The six-speed manual transmission seems borrowed from a sports car—and helps provide a greater sense of control than I'd expect in a truck. And I don't even need to take my eyes off the road to change the radio station. I just finger one of the buttons on the steering wheel and the task is accomplished.
Pickups are the latest proving ground for automotive engineers eager to show that "rugged" and "refined" can coexist in the same vehicle. And the Tacoma makes a compelling case. In addition to the on-road comfort that got me to my meeting on time—without creasing my proverbial suit—the redesigned Tacoma has a brash new look, with big headlights, a prominent high snout, and swollen fenders reminiscent of the popular Dodge Ram. Innovations in the bed include a rail system along the sides with four cleats that slide forward and back, allowing you to position them for the most effective way to tie down cargo. Even the modest base model, starting at just under $14,000, includes standard anti-lock brakes, a CD player, and new technology for better braking in an emergency. There are 18 different cab, drivetrain, and engine configurations, enough to produce a family argument. And at the high end there's a full-blown 4x4 double cab with performance enhancements borrowed from Toyota's racing shop. Utility truck, indeed.
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