Is the Tacoma front or rear-wheel drive?
The Toyota Tacoma is not offered with front-wheel drive. It comes in rear-wheel drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive (4x4) configurations, depending on trim and year. The 4x4 setup provides enhanced off-road capability with a two-speed transfer case and low-range gearing.
Drivetrain configurations you’ll encounter
The Tacoma lineup generally offers two main drivetrain setups. There is no factory FWD option, so buyers choose between 2WD and 4x4 depending on the model and intended use. Transmission options vary by generation and trim, with some trims offering manual or automatic transmissions alongside the drivetrain choice.
- 2WD (Rear-Wheel Drive): Power sent to the rear axle; better fuel economy and simpler maintenance; suitable for daily driving and highway travel.
- 4x4 (Four-Wheel Drive) with a two-speed transfer case: Power can be routed to both axles; designed for low-traction conditions; features 4WD High for regular off-road use and 4WD Low for rock crawling and steep descents.
Note: Some trims may pair different transmissions with these drivetrains depending on year and market. Always verify the exact configuration for the specific vehicle you’re considering.
Implications for buyers
Choosing between 2WD and 4x4 affects fuel economy, maintenance costs, and capability. If you mostly drive on pavement and just need a pickup, 2WD is usually sufficient. If you plan to tackle off-road trails, snow, sand, or rough job sites, 4x4 is the practical choice.
Summary
The Toyota Tacoma is not available with front-wheel drive. It is offered in rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations, with the latter using a two-speed transfer case to provide high- and low-range gearing for off-road work. Always check the exact drivetrain of the specific model year and trim you are considering.
Is the 2018 Tacoma FWD or RWD?
Tacomas have rear-wheel drivetrains and an automatic limited slip differential, a Toyota exclusive standard. A new six-speed manual transmission has replaced the five-speed. Of course, you can get an automatic transmission and four-wheel drive.
Is Tacoma front or rear-wheel drive?
The Toyota Tacoma is available in both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations, depending on the model and trim level. When a Tacoma is ordered with a 4WD system, it operates in rear-wheel drive by default but can automatically engage the front wheels for added traction when needed.
This video demonstrates how to switch between RWD and 4WD on a Toyota Tacoma: 1mTeam Oil DropYouTube · Feb 19, 2025
- Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): Many base Tacoma models come standard with RWD, which is suitable for daily driving and provides a smooth ride.
- Four-Wheel Drive (4WD): 4WD models are also rear-wheel drive until the system is engaged. This on-demand system can automatically transfer power to the front wheels when it detects a loss of traction, making it ideal for off-road conditions or slippery roads.
- Configuration: You can choose the RWD or 4WD option when purchasing a Tacoma. The 4WD system is a separate option from the RWD configuration.
Is the 2017 Toyota Tacoma front or rear-wheel drive?
The 2017 Toyota Tacoma comes offered in six trims: SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro. Furthermore, the new Toyota Tacoma comes offered in both access cab and double cab configurations, while consumers also have the choice of rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD).
Is the Tacoma SR5 front wheel drive?
Toyota Tacoma SR5 Features & Trim Highlights
It can be configured with either the XtraCab or Double Cab, a 5-foot or 6-foot bed, and rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.
