The 2015 Toyota Tacoma is offered in two different cab types: Access Cab and Double Cab. The Double Cab is a true 4-door truck with more backseat space, while the Access Cab models have smaller back seats as well as smaller rear doors that open up 80 degrees for easier ingress, egress and loading. Access Cab models have a 73.5-inch-long (6-foot) bed and a 127.4-inch wheelbase. Double Cab models get either a 5-foot (60.3-inch) bed or the 6-foot bed, extending their wheelbase to 140.6 inches.
Two different dual-overhead-cam engines are offered in the Tacoma: a 2.7L 4-cylinder or a 4.0L V6. The 4-cylinder makes 159 horsepower and 180 foot-pounds of torque and has adequate power if towing is not required; others will want the 236-horsepower and 266 foot-pounds of torque -- much of it at available at lower revs -- for its stronger yet more easygoing nature and its better towing and load ability. When properly equipped, the Tacoma in Access Cab form can tow up to 6,500 pounds.
On V6 models, there's also a fully warranted dealer-installed supercharger kit available, which boosts engine output to 304 horsepower and 334 pound-feet of torque. Other performance options include a dealer-installed Big Brake system with forged-aluminum 4-piston calipers, braided steel lines and larger, higher-friction pads.
TRD Pro models give the Tacoma a sportier off-road look, including BFGoodrich Rugged Trail tires, Bilstein shocks, and an electronically locking rear differential.
All Tacoma models come with a composite inner bed that's 10-percent lighter than steel yet more durable. There's also an integrated deck-rail utility with four adjustable tie-down cleats. Cargo accessories include diamond-plate storage boxes, cargo cross-bars and a fork-mount bike rack.
An SR5 Package is offered; it's mostly an appearance package, with more chrome brightwork and color-keyed overfenders and some upgraded trim inside. Infotainment systems in the Tacoma are the among the most current available, with Double Cab V6 models offering a Display Audio system with a 6.1-inch touch screen, backup-camera display, JBL Synthesis speakers, subwoofer and amplifier, plus HD Radio with iTunes Tagging, a USB port, iPod controls, voice recognition and Bluetooth music streaming. Toyota's Entune system, with apps for services such as Bing, Pandora and more is also offered.
Gas Mileage With 4-cylinder Engine
Affordability
Parking Ease And Maneuverability
Wide Range Of Models
Ahead of a major redesign slated for next year, the 2015 Toyota Tacoma has only minor changes. Notably, the regular cab model has been dropped, leaving only the extended Access Cab and the 4-door Double Cab. Elsewhere, a new off-road TRD Pro package has joined the lineup.
Spanning the range from basic work truck to well-equipped off-road or sport truck, the Toyota Tacoma gives truck enthusiasts what they need or want, without having to get a full-size pickup. Compared to full-size trucks, the Tacoma is more maneuverable and can be parked in places a full-size truck never could. With the 4-cylinder engine, the Tacoma is one of the most fuel-efficient pickups available. In Pre-Runner or rugged off-road forms, it's a good-looking sport truck serving a specialized task. While the interiors of Tacoma models are not particularly luxurious, Toyota has equipped the trucks with the latest in sound systems and infotainment.
