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What was the best Toyota Tacoma made?

The Toyota Tacoma is a popular mid-size pickup truck that has been in production since 1995. Over the years, Toyota has released several iterations of the Tacoma, each with its own unique features and improvements. However, one model stands out as the best Toyota Tacoma ever made: the 2016 Toyota Tacoma.


Why the 2016 Toyota Tacoma is the Best


The 2016 Toyota Tacoma was a significant upgrade from previous models, offering a range of improvements that made it the best Tacoma to date. Here are some of the key reasons why the 2016 Tacoma is considered the best:



  • Improved Powertrain: The 2016 Tacoma was available with a choice of two engines: a 2.7-liter four-cylinder or a 3.5-liter V6. Both engines were more powerful and efficient than the previous generation, providing better acceleration and towing capacity.

  • Refined Handling and Ride Quality: The 2016 Tacoma featured a redesigned suspension system that provided a smoother, more comfortable ride, both on-road and off-road. The truck also had improved steering and braking, making it more agile and responsive.

  • Enhanced Exterior Design: The 2016 Tacoma had a more modern and aggressive exterior design, with a bold front grille, sculpted body panels, and available LED lighting. This gave the truck a more premium and rugged appearance.li>
  • Upgraded Interior: The 2016 Tacoma's interior was significantly improved, with higher-quality materials, more comfortable seating, and a range of advanced technology features, including a touchscreen infotainment system and available wireless charging.

  • Improved Off-Road Capabilities: The 2016 Tacoma was available with a range of off-road-focused features, such as an available locking rear differential, a multi-terrain select system, and an available crawl control feature, making it a more capable off-road vehicle.


Overall, the 2016 Toyota Tacoma represented a significant step forward for the model, offering a more powerful, refined, and capable truck that appealed to a wide range of buyers, from everyday commuters to hardcore off-road enthusiasts.


The Impact of the 2016 Toyota Tacoma


The 2016 Toyota Tacoma's success had a significant impact on the mid-size pickup truck market. Its combination of improved performance, enhanced features, and rugged design set a new standard for the segment, and it quickly became one of the best-selling trucks in its class.


The 2016 Tacoma's success also had a lasting impact on Toyota's lineup, as the company continued to build on the model's strengths in subsequent years. The Tacoma has remained a top choice for buyers in the mid-size pickup segment, thanks in large part to the success of the 2016 model.p>

Which model of Toyota Tacoma is the best?


Researching online, the 2015 Tacoma seems to be the highest rated of all gens. This is my 2015 SR5 6 speed and 2021 TRDOR 4Runner.



Which Tacoma holds the value best?


Tacoma, double cab with 4x4 will hold the highest resale value. People will cry out Toyota tax but you'll get your money back when/if you decide to sell in my experience.



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.



What does SR5 mean on Toyota Tacoma?


Sport Rally Five-Speed
SR5 was originally a top trim level on the Tacoma, meaning "Sport Rally Five-Speed." For 2024, the SR5 trim level offers additional enhancements over the standard SR trim. Those enhancements include chrome exterior accents, upgraded projector-beam headlights, and integrated fog lights.



Which Tacoma model year to avoid?


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.



Which Toyota Tacoma gets the best mileage?


The Toyota Tacoma MPG by Trim

  • Toyota Tacoma SR: 20 mpg city/26 mpg highway*
  • Toyota Tacoma SR5: 21 mpg city/26 mpg highway*
  • Toyota Tacoma TRD PreRunner: 20 mpg city/24 mpg highway*
  • Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport: 20 mpg city/24 mpg highway*
  • Toyota Tacoma Limited: 20 mpg city/23 mpg highway*



What is the best year Toyota Tacoma to get?


Best Toyota Tacoma Trucks to Buy Used

  • 2015 Toyota Tacoma. This model year scored a 5 out of 5 for reliability, a 4 on safety with the NHTSA, and an 8.4 out of 10 for its front, rear, and side-impact safety features.
  • 2019 Toyota Tacoma.
  • 2006 Toyota Tacoma.
  • 2005 Toyota Tacoma.
  • 2020 Toyota Tacoma.



What is the most sought after Tacoma?


First Generation Toyota Tacoma (1995-2004)
This generation of the Tacoma is still highly regarded today, particularly by those seeking a no-frills truck that offers reliability and longevity without the complex electronics and features found in modern vehicles.



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.



Are Tacomas more reliable than Fords?


Ford F-150 vs. Toyota Tacoma dependability sees both trucks offer strong ratings. However, J.D. Power awarded the 2023 Ford F-150 a Quality & Reliability score of 86 out of 100. Meanwhile, they handed the 2023 Toyota Tacoma a Quality & Reliability score of 83 out of 100.


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.