Was 2014 a good year for Tacoma?
The Toyota Tacoma has long been a favorite among truck enthusiasts for its reliability, off-road capabilities, and overall performance. But how did the 2014 model year stack up? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the 2014 Toyota Tacoma, examining its strengths, weaknesses, and what made it stand out in the competitive midsize truck market.
Overview of the 2014 Toyota Tacoma
The 2014 Toyota Tacoma continued the legacy of its predecessors by offering a versatile and dependable midsize truck. It was available in a variety of configurations, including different cab styles (Regular, Access, and Double Cab) and bed lengths, making it a flexible choice for a wide range of drivers. With its rugged design and proven track record, the Tacoma remained a top contender in its class.
Key Features of the 2014 Tacoma
The 2014 Tacoma came equipped with several features that appealed to both casual drivers and off-road enthusiasts. Here are some of the highlights:
- Engine Options: The Tacoma offered two engine choices: a 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 159 horsepower and a more powerful 4.0-liter V6 engine with 236 horsepower. The V6 option was particularly popular for those needing extra towing capacity or off-road performance.
- Off-Road Capability: The TRD Off-Road package included features like Bilstein shocks, an electronic locking rear differential, and skid plates, making it a favorite for adventurers.
- Interior Comfort: While the Tacoma prioritized durability, it also offered a comfortable interior with available features like a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and optional leather upholstery.
- Safety: Standard safety features included stability control, traction control, and antilock brakes, ensuring peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.
Strengths of the 2014 Tacoma
The 2014 Tacoma had several strengths that made it a standout choice in the midsize truck segment:
- Reliability: Toyota’s reputation for building durable and long-lasting vehicles was evident in the Tacoma, making it a dependable choice for work or play.
- Resale Value: The Tacoma consistently held its value well, making it a smart investment for buyers.
- Off-Road Prowess: With the TRD Off-Road package, the Tacoma excelled in challenging terrains, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.
Weaknesses of the 2014 Tacoma
While the 2014 Tacoma was a strong performer, it wasn’t without its drawbacks:
- Fuel Economy: The Tacoma’s fuel efficiency lagged behind some competitors, particularly with the V6 engine.
- Ride Quality: The truck’s suspension, while great for off-roading, could feel stiff on paved roads.
- Interior Design: Some critics noted that the interior design felt dated compared to newer competitors in the segment.
Conclusion: Was 2014 a Good Year for the Tacoma?
Overall, 2014 was a solid year for the Toyota Tacoma. It continued to deliver on its promise of reliability, off-road capability, and versatility, making it a favorite among truck enthusiasts. While it had some minor drawbacks, such as fuel economy and ride comfort, its strengths far outweighed its weaknesses. If you’re considering a used Tacoma from this model year, it’s a great choice for those seeking a dependable and rugged midsize truck.
Frequently Asked Questions
What year of Tacoma to stay away from?
While most Tacomas enjoy a long history of reliability, there are a few years that are not good investments. Out of all of the years the Tacoma has been on the road, avoid the 2016-2017 years. Other years with issues include 2006-2009, 2011, and 2012.
What is the most sought after Tacoma?
The 1995 Tacoma is widely known as a reliable vehicle thanks to its durable make, fuel efficiency, and off-road capability. It's also worth mentioning that, with a bit of maintenance, even a model as old as the 1995 Toyota Tacoma is capable of reaching well over 250,000 miles.
What is the most reliable Toyota truck?
In addition to reliability, the Toyota Tundra stands out with its outstanding reputation for high resale value. Alongside the Toyota brand as a whole, the Tundra has received the Best Resale Value award in the full-size pickup truck segment for 2023.
What year Toyotas have frame rust issues?
Model years affected are from 2004 to 2008 (or 2010 in a few cases). This follows an earlier extended warranty affecting Toyota trucks from 1995-2003.
Can a tacoma last 500,000 miles?
With proper care and regular maintenance, it is not uncommon for a Toyota Tacoma engine to last well over 200,000 miles (320,000 kilometers) or more. Some Tacoma owners said their engines lasting even beyond 300,000 miles (480,000 kilometers) with no major issues.
What was the best year for Toyota Tacoma?
A: The Toyota Tacoma models from 1995 to 2005, along with the years 2010, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2018, 2019, and 2020, are highly recommended for their reliability. These models have fewer reported complaints and are known for enduring over 100,000 miles with minimal issues.
What year did Toyota Tacoma have transmission problems?
2024
Some 2024 Toyota Tacoma owners are reporting transmission failures to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The reported failures seem to affect both manual and automatic gearboxes, with some owners reporting failure within the first 1000 miles.
How long will a 2014 Toyota Tacoma last?
The Toyota Tacoma is a mid-size, light-duty pickup truck.
While other midsize pickup truck models taper off at 200,000 miles, you can expect the Toyota Tacoma to last up to 300,000. By prioritizing routine maintenance and vehicle care, you can expect the Toyota Tacoma to last a very long time.
Is 2014 Tacoma a good year?
Among the 1655 owners who provided feedback on the 2014 Toyota Tacoma Regular Cab for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with 93% recommending the vehicle.
What years did Toyota Tacoma have bad frames?
Despite its reputation for impeccable build quality, there was a period during the production of the first generation Tacoma where things went sideways for the Big T. As we've hinted at in previous articles, the frames of 1995-2004 model year Tacos were prone to big-time rust.
