Used Toyota Tacoma Buying Guide
The used Toyota Tacoma is an all-star midsize truck, sending you into the wilderness with plenty of power and rugged options. In addition to strong towing and off-road capabilities, the used Tacoma also offers an impressive range of modern features. Shop these used midsize trucks for a great deal on a comfy, tech-savvy daily drive.
Third Generation: 2016-Current Model
Why buy the third-generation Toyota Tacoma?
- Excellent off-roading capabilities
- Utility features, like the truck bed’s power outlet and movable tie-down cleats, offer impressive convenience
- Punchy power from both engine options
- Manual transmission available for optional V6 engine
When you choose one of these used Toyota Tacoma model years, you’re getting a great deal. The third-generation Tacoma has all the latest tech and comfort gear, making it an excellent daily driver. Seats in both the extended Access Cab and Double Cab crew cabin are spacious and supportive. Many of these models also include smartphone-savvy infotainment gear, making it easy to stream music and podcasts or send hands-free texts. You’ll also find high-tech safety gear among these models, such as pre-collision warning, which can help you avoid trouble.
These trucks also treat you to impressive power. The base 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine produces 159 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. For even stronger capabilities, look for a used Tacoma with the 3.5-liter V6 engine, which amplifies performance with 278 horses and 265 pound-feet of torque.
These midsize trucks have evolved a bit over the years, so it’s a good idea to skim your used Tacoma’s features list to make sure it has everything you want in a daily driver. Here are some big changes to look out for:
- Complete smartphone integration—including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa—became standard equipment for the 2020 model year.
- The 2018 Tacoma introduced high-tech safety options, including lane departure alert, pre-collision warning with pedestrian detection, and automatic high beams
- For 2017, the fan-favorite off-road trim model, TRD Pro, rejoined the Tacoma trim lineup.
Second Generation: 2005-2015
Why buy the second-generation used Toyota Tacoma?
- Strong performance from the four-cylinder or V6 engine options
- Impressive off-road capabilities
- Modern tech features in later model years
- Size makes it easy to handle
Unlike modern midsize trucks, this crop of used Tacomas is smaller in size and stature, making them easier to maneuver around town. Both engine options, a 159-horsepower four-cylinder and 236-horsepower V6, promise impressive towing and hauling capabilities. Each engine option was originally available with either a manual or automatic transmission, so make sure your used Tacoma features the powertrain you want.
Inside, these Tacomas are roomy and comfortable. Many model years even feature modern infotainment features, including a touch-screen interface and Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity.
Toyota made sure to update the Tacoma as time wore on. Here are some of the most important changes to note:
- The 2015 Tacoma no longer offered a regular cabin, leaving only the extended Access Cab and Double Cab crew cabin available.
- For 2014, the Tacoma’s infotainment system rolled out an upgraded touch screen.
- Toyota added its Entune infotainment system to the 2012 Tacoma. The first edition included Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, text, and email reading, HD radio, real-time traffic info, and Pandora and iHeartRadio streaming.
- Beginning in 2011, Tacomas with the four-cylinder engine offered an optional automatic transmission. Also, air conditioning became standard equipment.
- The 2009 Tacomas introduced standard stability and traction control, as well as front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags, and active front head restraints. Before 2009, these items were optional, so make sure to look for them on your used Tacoma’s list of features.