Loading

What is the slang for Toyota Tacoma?

The slang terms most commonly used to refer to a Toyota Tacoma are "Tac" and "Taco." In everyday chatter, online posts, and among off-road enthusiasts, these nicknames are widely recognized and understood.


Common slang terms


Across online forums, social media, and auto shops, two nicknames dominate conversations about the Tacoma.



  • Tac — shorthand for Tacoma; widely used in both casual speech and online discussions.

  • Taco — a playful, affectionate nickname; often appears in memes, captions, and light-hearted posts.


Both terms are informal and context-dependent. If you’re writing formally or addressing a professional audience, use "Toyota Tacoma" or "Tacoma" instead of slang.


Usage and cultural context


In practice, the terms vary by region and community. "Tac" tends to be the neutral, widely understood form, while "Taco" signals a more casual, humorous tone among fans who embrace the truck's rugged, adventurous persona.


Online forums and social media


On platforms like enthusiast forums, YouTube comments, and Reddit, "Tac" and "Taco" appear with almost equal frequency. Memes and product reviews often lean into "Taco" for comedic effect.


Dealerships, clubs, and meetups


In person, local clubs and meetups may favor one term over the other, but both are generally understood. When in doubt, mirror the language someone uses in conversation or in the forum you’re engaging with.


Summary: In short, the shorthand "Tac" and the playful "Taco" are the slang terms most people use to refer to the Toyota Tacoma. They reflect a casual culture among owners and fans, while formal references should stick to the full model name.

Are tacomas called tacos?


Yes, the Toyota Tacoma is often nicknamed "Taco" by its owners, which is a shortened, slang version of its name. This nickname is widely used within the ownership community and is a common abbreviation for the truck.
 

  • Shortening: "Taco" is simply a shorter, catchier way to say Tacoma. 
  • Common usage: Many owners use the nickname, making it a well-understood term in communities and online forums dedicated to the truck. 
  • Nickname evolution: The name is so widespread that it has become a part of the truck's identity and culture for those who own it. 



What is the slang for Tacoma truck?


Taco is a slang abbreviation for the Toyota Tacoma.



What was the old name for the Toyota Tacoma?


The Toyota Tacoma replaced the Toyota Pickup, which was the North American name for the global Toyota Hilux. Introduced in 1995, the Tacoma was designed with a greater focus on ride quality, safety, and comfort compared to its predecessor, the more utility-focused "Pickup".
 

  • Toyota Pickup / Hilux: The Tacoma was the successor to the compact pickup truck that had been sold in North America since 1976 and was known globally as the Hilux. 
  • New Focus: The Tacoma represented a shift for Toyota, prioritizing improvements in safety, comfort, and handling, in addition to the truck's core capabilities. 
  • Market Context: By the late 1980s, Toyota recognized that the market was shifting and that an upgrade was needed, which led to the development of the Tacoma. 



What is the nickname for Tacoma?


Tacoma has several nicknames, with its most well-known being the "City of Destiny," named after being chosen as the western terminus for the Northern Pacific Railroad. Other common nicknames include "Grit City," a name reflecting its ability to overcome tough times, and "T-Town," a more casual abbreviation. 

  • City of Destiny: This is the most historic nickname, given in the late 19th century when the city was selected as the western terminus of the Northern Pacific Railroad, a decision that was promoted by eccentric millionaire George Francis Train. 
  • Grit City: This nickname emerged later to acknowledge the city's resilience, industrial past, and ability to endure challenges. 
  • T-Town: A simple and widely used abbreviation for Tacoma. 
  • Other nicknames: Some older or less common nicknames include "Tackyoma" (a playful, derogatory term) and, more historically, "Queen City of the Pacific Northwest" from 1869–1982. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.