Toyota Tacoma 2016 has been the mid-size-pickup measuring stick. It offers proficient off-road packages, a manual transmission, impressive towing capability, and styling that stands out.
Outdoor enthusiasts and pickup traditionalists will appreciate its versatility and practicality. With four powertrains, two cab choices, two…
Toyota Tacoma 2016 has been the mid-size-pickup measuring stick. It offers proficient off-road packages, a manual transmission, impressive towing capability, and styling that stands out.
Outdoor enthusiasts and pickup traditionalists will appreciate its versatility and practicality. With four powertrains, two cab choices, two cargo-bed lengths, and rear- or four-wheel drive, it can be tailored for everyone.
Although most competitors are now more technologically advanced, more refined, and more luxurious, the Tacoma remains an option for those seeking a tried-but-true alternative with off-road cred.
The TRD Pro returns after a one-year hiatus, and it’s Toyota’s top off-road model. It’s powered exclusively by a 3.5-liter V-6 in the Double Cab short-bed setup, and offers either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.
The TRD Pro also features a suspension tuned for off-road driving that adds a 1.0-inch lift, plus LED exterior lighting, the standard V-6 tow package, and various TRD equipment and badging.
Safety assists such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear parking sensors are standard. All models now have a touchscreen Entune infotainment system.
The Tacoma’s optional V-6 engine provides decent performance and towing muscle, but the base four-cylinder is weak-kneed and best avoided. We also advise steering clear of the persnickety six-speed automatic transmission with either powerplant; stick with the six-speed manual and the V-6.
The base engine is a 2.7-liter inline-four that makes a paltry 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. It’s significantly less powerful than those in the Chevrolet Colorado and the GMC Canyon. The Tacoma’s four-cylinder can be paired with the automatic and either rear- or four-wheel drive. A five-speed manual is offered, too, but only with four-wheel drive.
Likewise, the 278-hp 3.5-liter V-6 with 265 lb-ft of torque is available with the automatic and either drivetrain; a six-speed manual can and should be chosen and only teams with four-wheel drive. Forget car-like handling, the Tacoma sticks with the formula it’s done well with for a long time: being a pickup.
Far from the first choice in terms of ride quality and handling, it’ll tackle the trails or rough back roads with ease. The Limited delivers a satisfying ride that is smoother and quieter than off-road versions.
The upgraded suspension of the TRD Pro results in a stiffer ride that helps manage body motions and maintain composure over rough roads.
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Sticking to your roots is commendable, but it doesn’t work in the Tacoma cabin’s favor. The utilitarian layout and materials are of a different era. The absence of power-adjustable seats is disappointing, and even the higher trim levels rely heavily on hard plastics and minimalistic materials.
The TRD Pro we tested had black leather-trimmed seats that featured red stitching as standard; the Limited features hickory leather. All Tacomas have a driver’s seat with adjustable lumbar support and four-way-adjustable front-passenger seats.
Load up the cargo bed, but leave your suitcases and loose items at home. The Tacoma has more than enough volume in its two different bed lengths, but it disappoints with few storage cubbies and limited carry-on space inside.
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