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    Toyota Tacoma - The History of America's Favorite Mid-Sized Pickup Truck

    Toyota Tacoma - The History of America's Favorite Mid-Sized Pickup Truck

    Toyota Tacoma sales continue to grow year after year. Why not? They are one of the best mid-sized trucks on the market. They come from a reliable and well-trusted company, and the trucks can do everything from daily commuting, casual off-roading, aggressive overlanding, towing, and just about whatever else you can throw at it.

    Where did the Tacoma start, how did it change, and how did it grow? Let’s find out with a bit of history on the trucks we’ve come to know and love.

    First Generation Tacoma (1995 - 2004)

    The Tacoma first came to the US market in February of 1995. The Tacoma was replacing the Toyota Hilux which was a pickup that ran in the US for decades. Japan realized that Americans and Canadians used trucks differently compared to the rest of the world. While just about every other country used trucks for utilitarian purposes, North America used them for work and pleasure. The first generation Tacoma was designed with that in mind. It was going to be focused on handling, driving comfort, and safety over utilitarian nature.

    What does Tacoma mean? It’s from the Salish Indian word for the mountain that provided water to their tribe (later changed to Mount Rainier). The name suggests images of strength and power. More information on Toyota’s names can be found here.

    Design work started in 1990 at Calty Design Research in California. When released, there were three engine options: a 2.4L and 2.7L four-cylinder, and a 3.4L V6. They got 26, 20, and 21 MPG respectively, and 142, 150, and 190 horsepower respectively.  Four-speed automatics and five-speed manuals were available, depending on the model, two or four-wheel drive, and cab size. Extended cab models featured a 6-foot bed while crew cab models received a 5 foot 5-inch long bed.

    In 1998, Toyota offered the TRD Off-Road package on select models. It included a locking differential, and there was also was an aftermarket TRD supercharger that could be added to the 3.4L V6 bringing up the horsepower to 254. The PreRunner model was also released that year.

    The first generation lasted a good nine years from 1995 to 2004. During that time, there were two facelifts (1997 and 2000). The biggest mechanical changes over the years were in 1996 where the spark system changed to coil-on-plug design, and in 1997 when longer rear leaf springs were added. In 2000, the S-Runner trim package was released which included different shocks, bigger wheels, and a manual transmission.

    Sales were very good for the first generation, mainly with young buyers. At the end of the generation run, sales surpassed the Nissan Frontier and Dodge Dakota, but the Ford Ranger was still ahead in the compact truck class.

    One major downside to this generation (1995 to 2000) was poor rustproofing. This led to a recall of about 800,000 trucks in 2008. Some frames were so bad that they had to be replaced. Later, about 150,000 models from 2001 to 2004 were recalled due to spare tires detaching from the vehicle.

    Second Generation Tacoma (2005 - 2015)

    Toyota started working on the second generation Tacoma in 2000, which was launched on October 18, 2004. It was larger, approaching the mid-sized market. The engine options went down to two (2.7L four-cylinder and 4.0L V6), but transmission options went up to four! The transmissions were both four and five-speed automatics and manuals. Power went up to 159 and 236 horsepower respectively.

    With that, three different cab sizes, and two different bed lengths, there were 18 different configurations that a person could order a Tacoma in. This really opened up the market to have a truck for almost any buyer.

    The S-Runner was released to replace the poorly selling X-Runner. It offered even bigger (18 inch) wheels, was lowered, and had a beefier street suspension. It was not for the dirt at all, but Toyota upped its TRD Off-Road package, even more, to make up for it which included hill assist, and locking/limited-slip differentials. The beds of all the trucks were upgraded to allow more versatile use of them.

    Through the second generation, there were a number of changes. 2006 made a lot of the optional 2005 features standard. 2007 and 2008 were the same as 2006 aside from some color options. 2009 offered a number of changes from added safety features, to the replacement of the mechanical differential to a new “Auto Limited Slip Differential.”

    Production location had a major change in 2010. After the economic crisis in the US and GM declared bankruptcy, all joint ventures between GM and Toyota ceased. One of the changes Toyota decided to make was moving all of the Tacoma production to one location in San Antonio, Texas where they would be built next to their bigger brothers: Tundra.

    More creature comforts were added in 2009 and 2010 including speakers, satellite radio, and more. Major cosmetic changes including the front bumper, headlights, grille, and hood came about in 2012 really updating the look of the truck. 2013 took the entertainment a step further with a touch screen but took certain features away such as the satellite radio unless you got a certain optional package.  In 2014, the new SR trim came about.

    Third Generation Tacoma (2016 - Present)

    Towards the end of 2015, Toyota rolled out its generation of Tacoma that we know and love today. While much of the styling concept carried over from 2014, there were many changes that gave the current generation a far more aggressive look such as the larger grille and chiseled body lines. Gone are the days of compact trucks. The market seems to demand “bigger and better,” so the Tacoma is now officially considered a mid-sized truck.

    The 2.7L carried over with the same 159 horsepower, but the V6 was changed to the 3.5L which made 278 horsepower. The five-speed manual carried over until 2017 but then was replaced with a six-speed manual. Of course, a six-speed automatic was available.

    Toyota really focused on the off-road and utilitarian use of the truck this time around but didn’t detract from the luxury amenities. Better steel and more of it was used, but improved technologies lightened the overall frame weight while increasing durability. The suspension and rear differentials were changed to be the best of both worlds on-road and off.

    In addition to the exterior, Toyota changed the interior dramatically with more creature comforts including a bigger touch screen, soft-touch material (replacing hard plastics), and leather options. There have also been substantial efforts to reduce cabin noise with an acoustic windshield, better-insulated doors, and more weather stripping.

    Six trim levels are now available with the third generation: SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro.

    The TRD trims offer some really impressive features this time around. The Sport effectively replaces the S-Runner as the best model to have for on-road performance, while the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro really crush all off-roading needs.  I cover all of the models in high detail in my post about the different TRD models.

    The 2020 model received a bit of a facelift and offers more entertainment features and a much desired multi-way adjustable seat. The Ford Ranger came out with very impressive features and performance numbers, so we can expect even better things from Toyota to compete.

    Bonus Facts

    These trucks are reliable. Mike Neal from North Carolina has a 2008 Tacoma with over 1.2 million miles on it. There is a first-generation (1997) that has 533,973 miles on it. It was recently listed for sale for $1,500. It is very beaten up, but still going strong!

    A 2010 Tacoma named Polar holds two current world records for the fastest run to the South Pole. The truck was far beyond stock with a near $400,000 of aftermarket modifications. It was a great platform to start with!

    Image Credits

    Polar - Courtesy of New Altas

    First Generation - Courtesy of Consumer Guide Automotive

    Second Generation - Courtesy of IIHS

    Third Generation - Courtesy of Autoblog

    Third Generation 2020 - Courtesy of Autoblog

    2020 Toyota Tacoma vs Ford Ranger - How Do They Compare?

    2020 Toyota Tacoma vs Ford Ranger - How Do They Compare?

    Back in the day, the argument was always Ford vs Chevy. When the Japanese import market started to boom in the 80s, things changed. Today, Toyota has made the top-selling car in the US for many years. While Ford holds the title with full-sized trucks, mid-sized/compact trucks are back in style, and with heavy competition.

    For some time, there really was no other option but the Tacoma. It’s durable, reliable, and backed by a very well known and trusted brand. Well, Ford has brought back its compact truck to the US: the Ford Ranger. It’s going right after the Tacoma market. How do the two trucks compare?

    * Options not available on all models

    ** Up to, with applicable packages/options

    Trims, Sizes, and Prices

    The Tacoma offers six trim levels (SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro) compared to the Ford Ranger’s three (XL, XLT, and Lariat). In all cases though, the Ranger offers a lower base price. Options cause both trucks to increase in price, and while the Tacoma does offer a bit more in terms of options, the cost is still a bit more.

    Some of the options include bed and cab size. While both offer a version of a single cab with four seats or a double cab with four seats, Ford falls short on bed options. Depending on the trim, Tacoma allows you more bed options, while Ford keeps the same overall length of the truck with each cab option: bigger cab means smaller bed. The weight of each truck is basically the same at around 4,400 at the heaviest.

    Drivetrain

    The Tacoma offers two proven engines, both with respectable power and torque. Ford only offers one.  While the Ranger is new to the US market, the 2.7L EcoBoost engine is also well proven being found in almost all of Ford’s vehicles. It offers more power and substantially more torque. While doing that, it does offer better gas mileage as well. That is in part to Ford’s 10 speed automatic transmission. However, that is your only option. Tacoma offers a 6 speed manual or automatic, though that does depend on the trim level. Both have the option of two or four-wheel drive depending on trim and packages.

    Towing and Off-Road

    Both trucks offer the same respectable base towing capacity: 3,500 pounds. Both also offer upgraded towing packages. This brings the Tacoma up to 6,800 lbs and Ranger up to 7,500 lbs. Payload capacity with both is also respectable, but the Tacoma can handle a little less compared to the Ranger.

    Off-roading is where the Tacoma tends to win. Ford does offer a very impressive off-road package which includes a better suspension, tires, rear differential, and off-roading electronics. A unique feature would be the addition of skid plates. Those are mostly similar to what Toyota offers, but Tacoma is known for off-roading and overlanding. They sell entire trim levels dedicated to off-roading.

    The amount of aftermarket for the Tacoma is legendary. Granted, it has been around for much longer compared to the Ranger (compared to the US market at least), but that is what the Tacoma is known for, and it will take the aftermarket some time to catch up for Ranger parts.

    Colors and Interior

    Exterior color choices are pretty similar between the two. Interior wise, it’s been reported that the Ranger seems to have more of a luxury feel, while the Tacoma feels more rugged. That could be since the Tacoma is more gear to the off-road market. The 2020 Tacoma will be offering more entertainment and driver adjustability features that are on the Ranger as well. Also in 2020, the Tacoma will come out with more safety features such as a lane departure warning system.

    Conclusion

    All in all, Ford really came out swinging with the Ford Ranger. In overall performance, it does seem to come out ahead of the Toyota Tacoma. This is typical of new models. While the Ranger is not technically new (as it has been offered outside of the US market), Ford has had time to see what other manufacturers were doing, and it acted accordingly when bringing the Ranger to the US in 2019. Tacoma is, for lack of better words, old. However, Toyota is realizing what needs to be done, and it is taking the proper steps.

    As for options both factory and aftermarket, the Tacoma wins. Ford doesn’t offer as many options, but the ones you can get work well. I guess it goes back to what Henry Ford said about the Model T: “Any customer can have a car painted any color that he wants so long as it is black.”

    Toyota has the proven reliability of the platform. While the Ranger is “new,” the drivetrain is proven from other vehicles.

    Honestly, it comes down to personal preference, needs, and brand loyalty. Both are fantastic options, but I am curious to see what this battle holds for the future.

    Image Credits

    2020 Tacoma 1 - Courtesy of CNET

    2020 Tacoma 2 - Courtesy of AutoBlog

    2020 Ranger 1 - Courtesy of Motor1

    2020 Ranger 2 - Courtesy of Ford

    What Is The Difference Between A Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport, Off-Road, and Pro?

    What Is The Difference Between A Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport, Off-Road, and Pro?

    Most of the blog here at Empyre Off-Road has been dedicated to educating people on aftermarket parts Tacoma parts and options, however, there hasn't been much talk about factory options. What comes stock from Toyota? What is included in each trim? Let's take some time to dive into that. When it comes to Tacoma's there are three trim levels you can get, they are the TRD Pro, the TRD Sport, and the TRD Off-Road. What’s the difference? Which one should you get? Let’s find out a little more about them so you can decide which version of the durable and reliable Toyota Tacoma you want.

    In the event you were wondering: TRD stands for “Toyota Racing Development.” This is Toyota’s in-house tuning shop for all Toyota, Lexus, and formerly Scion cars. TRD is responsible both for improving street cars for more performance and supporting Toyota's racing interests around the world.

    TRD Sport

    Some Tacomas will never see dirt. Let’s face it: yes, these are durable and capable trucks, but they also look good. Some people buy them just because they want to. If you’re looking for a little extra bling for your highway commutes, the TRD Sport is probably your best option.

    Ironically, there is not much sport to the TRD Sport. It is mostly cosmetic; an appearance package over the base (SR) model. The Sport offers body-colored bumpers and fender flares, a non-functional hood scoop, 17-inch wheels with street tires, a "sport-tuned" suspension, and a front air dam attached at the base of the front bumper.

    The sport-tuned suspension means that it is stiffer. There is less body-roll and less flex, which makes it ideal for driving on pavement. You want your truck’s suspension to flex when you’re driving over rocks, but you don’t want that if you have to quickly change lanes on a highway.

    The 2020 Tacoma TRD Sport starts at $32,745. For comparison, the SR (base) starts at $26,050.

    TRD Off-Road

    The Off-Road package for the Toyota Tacoma is a great starting place for those weekend warriors who like to do some off-roading, hill climbing, and tackle other similar terrains. Some of the goodies you get include Bilstein shock absorbers, locking rear differential, Crawl Control, Multi-Terrain Select, 16-in wheels, Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Kevlar-lined off-road tires, and black plastic fender flares.

    These are some pricey modifications that many would do to their truck for off-roading, and you can get them from the factory here. The shocks help absorb the bumps and rattles of the rough terrain while the locking differential keeps power going through both wheels for extra traction. Speaking of extra traction, the Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select are great features to help get the most help from your truck while off-roading, and they are not really something you can get aftermarket. The tires and fenders are more durable over the stock equivalents, and the smaller wheels assist in off-road capabilities compared to the larger 17-inch ones on the Pro.

    The 2020 Tacoma TRD Off-Road starts at $34,000. That’s not much more compared to the Sport. Of course, prices will vary (for each) model based on options.

    TRD Pro

    While this is the most expensive model starting at $43,960, this what you get if you want a serious off-road machine from the factory. And yes, that means you get a factory warranty on the beast! If you’re beyond the weekend warrior status when it comes to off-roading, or perhaps you just want the best money can buy for a factory Tacoma, the Pro comes with everything the Off-Road does plus tons of extras.

    Fox off-road suspension with front coilovers and remote reservoir rear shock absorbers, 1-inch suspension lift, TRD ¼ inch aluminum front skid plate, 16 inch Black TRD wheels offering a 1 inch wider track, and a larger anti-sway bar are all some of the extra performance goodies you get. Let’s not forget about the TRD cat-back exhaust as well.

    In addition to the performance upgrades, this model doesn’t skimp on cosmetic upgrades as well. The Off-Road package gives you a unique hood with a (non-functioning) hood scoop and "eye-black" decal, TRD Pro-specific grille, black headlight, and taillight bezels, TRD Pro badging, TRD shift knob, TRD Pro floor mats, and TRD Pro black leather seats with "TRD Pro" embroidering. There is no sunroof option for the Pro.

    There is a downside though: you are limited to a double cab with a five-foot bed. You also have one engine choice, but you do get to choose between a manual and an automatic transmission. As mentioned at the start of this section, it is also very pricey. When you think of Toyota, you think of more inexpensive, yet reliable vehicles. This does stray from the “inexpensive” side and seems to be priced closer to some well specced out full-sized trucks. You do get a lot of truck for the money, so there is a reason.

    Conclusion

    TRD makes great options for our trucks. Off-roading is something a lot of people will want to upgrade their trucks to do. There is a fantastic aftermarket for that. However, if something breaks, you have to contact that manufacturer and hope they take care of it in a way that works for you. If everything comes from the factory, you’re covered! Another good reason to get an upgraded truck from the factory is that there are some electronics you can’t get installed aftermarket. 

    Know your needs, and buy accordingly. Have fun, and stay safe! 

    All images come directly from Toyota. They are all of the 2020 Tacoma TRD variants. Please note that the Pro model is a prototype. Images can be found here.

    The Ultimate Guide To Toyota Tacoma Camper Shells

    The Ultimate Guide To Toyota Tacoma Camper Shells

    As I have covered in many of my previous posts, there are tons of things that the Toyota Tacoma is good at. If there are two things I’ve tried to drive home, it’s that these trucks are great offroad and great at hauling. Camper shells can be a fantastic addition to make those two points even better.

    What are the most common uses for camper shells?

    When it comes to camper shells on the back of a pickup, there two main reasons for having them: storage and lodging. Whether you are overlanding for the week, going on a weekend camping trip, or just need a place to rest for the night during a long road trip, camper shells are an excellent option. They give you extra room to stretch out and keep you safe from the elements.

    Perhaps you don’t want to sleep in the appropriately named “bed” of your truck. Maybe you just want more storage volume? Tonneau covers seal off the top of your bed, and that’s it. A camper shell allows for usually double or more volume of safe, dry, and secure storage space.

    Which camper shell is right for your Tacoma?

    There are five main categories for camper shells: cab high, high-rise, commercial, pop-ups, and full-size campers.

    Cab High Tacoma Camper Shells

    These shells reach the height of your cab’s roofline to provide a smooth and streamlined look to the back of your truck. These are generally made of light material such as fiberglass. Less expensive models are made out of cloth material with a metal frame.

    Often on the sides of the shell are windows, but here there are optional models that are solid without them. The side windows can either be fixed, sliding, swing up with hydraulics, or a combination of the last two. The rear is most commonly a hatch window on hydraulics, similar to the back of many SUVs. There are some with “barn doors” that involve replacing your tailgate with two vertical doors. Cab highs are easy to install, light, cheaper, and can be painted or come painted to match your truck! It’s also common for roof racks to be mounted to the top of the shell for ever more storage.

    High-rise Tacoma Camper Shells

    These shells are pretty much the same as the cab high shells but are taller. Generally these are higher towards the rear of the truck to allow for a more aerodynamic shape overall. The rear is generally the same as well with either a hatch window or barn doors. Depending on the manufacturer, roof racks may not always be able to be mounted on the tops of these due to curvature of the roofline.

    Commercial Tacoma Camper Shells 

    These shells are great if you are using your truck for utility purposes. These are generally crafted out of metal and have many storage compartments and shelves built into the sides and inside/bed are. These are durable and versatile. Racks on top are common for more storage and hauling capabilities. Don’t expect these to be pretty or in a wide range of colors. Commercial camper shells are utilitarian first and foremost but can be customized to anything you want with the right budget and imagination.

    Pop-up Tacoma Camper Shells

    These shells really bring home the term “camper.” There is a fine line between calling these a pop-up camper, and a pop-up camper shell, but they are worth noting since they may come up in your searches. These shells are designed for you to live in. When collapsed, they are generally the same height as your cab, or perhaps a bit taller at most. When extended, they are a few feet higher and have the amenities of a small RV or camper van. You can find a bed, shelves, and some more expensive models might even have things like a sink. These are not designed to be permanently lived in, but they are great for overlanding or weekend trips if you want a place to stay off the ground.

    Full-size Tacoma Camper Shells

    These shells are for those extreme weekend campers. These are very tall, and very bulky. Size varies, but for the most part, they are what a pop-up is, but always extended. Generally there is also a section that hangs over your cab. They are not cheap, and they are not for everyday use. They are also not a good selection for overlanding due to their size.

    While these technically come on and off easily in terms of mounting, the size and weight almost make them a “permanent” installation. They are significantly cheaper compared to a full-sized RV or camper van, so if you have an old Tacoma laying around and like to drive up the mountains on the weekends to go camping, this could be a great option for you. Keep in mind that many of these are custom ordered.

    Now that we have camper shell types out of the way, what are some good brands our fellow Taco drivers like? 

    A lot of drivers on the forums tend to like the ARE line of shells. They make many different models including cab high, high-rise, and commercial models. They offer the ability to custom make your own as well. One of the more popular models is the cab high “Overland,” which features a bedliner type spray in some of the areas that may encounter the most stress. This will increase the life and durability of the shell. They are around $2000 depending on the options and models.

    Another popular model is the SnugTop Rebel. While SnugTop also makes many different cab high and high-rise models, the Rebel offers a perfect color-matched option with all of the windows and locks you need. They are around the same price as the ARE Overland, so it comes down to personal taste.

    Commercial shells are generally boring and utilitarian, but forum users are really loving what you can do with Tradesman Truck Toppers. While starting at around $2000, the price can quickly increase, but you have complete customization. These are generally built to order, and some people have gotten very creative with them for overlanding excursions. Since commercial toppers are generally high-rise and have lots of storage, these are great for your camping and overlanding trips.

    When it comes to a hybrid model of a high-rise and camper, folks seem to turn to the AT Overland models: Summit, Habitat, and Atlas. While much more expensive (up to around $7000 depending on the model and options), these look great, are of excellent quality, and very versatile. They give you the storage space of a cab high but have a very large tent on top that can easily be deployed. You can make the bed like the inside of a camper as your weekend getaway truck, or leave that area for daily use, but always have a tent ready for when you want to go camping!

    Like most things regarding your Tacoma, there are so many options. It all depends on your budget, and what you plan on doing with your truck. From daily use to offroading, to overlanding, and looking good while doing it, there are options for you! 

    Image Credits

    Cab High and ARE Overland Model: Tacoma World User “vuTron”

    Commercial and Tradesman Truck Topper Model: Tacoma World User “Toynado”

    Camper and AT Habitat Model: Tacoma World User “excorcist”

    Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity - How Much Can A Tacoma Pull?

    Toyota Tacoma Towing Capacity - How Much Can A Tacoma Pull?

    Trucks are great for a lot of things: durability, storage, offroading, and towing. Towing opens up a whole new world of transportation possibilities, but just how much can your Tacoma tow? For this article, we are going to focus on third-generation Tacos (2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, & 2020) and discover what these trucks can handle.

    The stats from the factory list these trucks to have a towing capacity of 3,500lbs with the 2.7l four-cylinder engine, and 6,800lbs with the 3.5l V6 and the towing package.

    What is the Toyota Tacoma Tow Package?

    While the 2020 model is changing things up a bit with what is standard and what is optional, the optional Tow Package for the third generation Tacoma includes a class-IV towing hitch receiver, transmission cooler, power steering cooler, a beefier 130-amp alternator, 4 and 7-pin connector with converter, and a Trailer-Sway Control.

    Why is all of that important? From the factory, trucks are designed to haul some stuff in the bed and do well without pavement. Anytime you add substantial weight behind your truck, regardless of the make or model, your truck has to work harder. The engine and transmission have to work harder, the alternator has to draw more power, and all this causes heat. Added cooling and more electrical power are necessary to allow your truck to pull the most it can, and safely. All of these features can be added to your truck with aftermarket parts, but Toyota offers exactly what the truck needs to perform the best it can.

    On that note, to be safe, you have to make sure you have the right setup on your hitch to tow the right load. You need to consider your “tongue weight” or “tongue load.” Tongue load is the static force a trailer tongue puts on the hitch ball.

    For example, the 2019 Tacoma has a rated tongue load of 350 pounds on the four-cylinder trucks, and between 640 pounds to 680 pounds on the V6. A proper tongue load, or weight, is about 10 to 15 percent of the total loaded trailer weight. If your Tacoma is rated at a towing capacity of 6,800lbs, 10 percent of that is 680. So your tongue load/weight needs to be 680 pounds.

    There is so much more science that I could get into, but West Marine has an excellent article an all the mathematical details on how to select the proper hitch, ball, coupler, and just about all the other stuff you need. You can read the article here: Sizing Up Trailer Hitches and Couplers.

    With all stats out of the way, what can you tow with your third-generation Toyota Tacoma? Can your Tacoma pull a boat? Yes. Can your Tacoma pull a camper? Yup. Can your Tacoma pull a horse trailer? You betcha! In short, Tacomas can pull all types of loads in or out of trailers. Once you do the math about what the weight of your load is and you have the proper equipment, you’re really only limited by local/federal laws and your skill.

    Can A Tacoma Pull a 5th Wheel?

    Some people have asked if you can use a Tacoma for fifth-wheel towing. Fifth wheel towing is a whole different animal. This counts more on the truck’s payload capacity, which for a third-generation Toyota Tacoma is 1,175 pounds on the short bed and 1,370 pounds on the long bed.

    Payload capacity is what a truck can handle on its rear axle, and it’s important since fifth-wheel towing involves the mount for what you’re towing to be in the bed of the truck. In short, Toyota does not recommend it. People have done it, but you have to get creative with how you do it. It’s not a simple installation, but if there is a will, there is a way. I would recommend sticking with “traditional” towing when it comes to Tacomas. After all, they are built for that and build for it well.

    You do have to keep some things in mind when you are towing: your handling and the way you have to drive will change dramatically, your gas mileage will go down, and your truck will be working harder.

    If you have a proper factory or aftermarket tow package, the extra load on your drivetrain will be fine. If not, you could damage parts or overheat due to temperature increases. Your gas mileage will drop around or below about three miles per gallon less than what you currently get. Of course, that depends on the weight and the drag/aerodynamics of your load. Handling is obvious: you have a MUCH longer truck now. Sharp, last-minute turns at high speeds could cause a massive and very expensive spill, and wind can become your new worst enemy. You must drive with care when towing.

    All in all, the Toyota Tacoma is a fantastic truck. It is extremely capable and reliable in almost any situation that you can throw at it. Towing is no exception. If you take care to adhere to all safety regulations and not exceed what your truck is rated for, our little Toyota Tacomas can really almost tow it all: campers, cars, boats, and more.

    Image Credits

    TacomaWorld User atrain23

    TacomaWorld USer Optimaltaco

    Arlington Toyota