New 2007 Toyota Tacoma [ 2009 , 2008 ]
Toyota Tacoma
Overall Score - 8.9 (Very Good)
The Tacoma impresses reviewers with its powertrain choices, and reputation for overall reliability. Even so, its unrefined suspension system disappoints and only the highest trim level has a comfortable rear seat.
The 2007 Toyota Tacoma is praised for its refined powertrain combinations, off-road performance, long list of standard interior features and superb reputation for reliability. The Tacoma Double Cab's comfortable three-passenger rear seat impresses reviewers, but a lack of rear-seat comfort in the Access Cab disappoints. The 2007 Tacoma receives Edmunds' "Most Wanted Compact Truck" award and is listed as a Consumer Guide "Best Buy". Automotive.com says, "The Toyota Tacoma may be the best pickup in its class. And that's saying a lot, because the entire class is outstanding."
Though available in several refined powertrain configurations, most auto writers agree that the Tacoma's 236 horsepower V6 engine is ideal. "Energetic response is a bonus of the Tacoma's V6 engine when it teams with a five-speed automatic transmission. This engine snarls during hard acceleration, but not in a distressing way," says Cars.com. Still, reviewers find that the Tacoma's harsh suspension detracts from its overall ride quality.
While reviewers concede that there are more attractive compact pickups than the Toyota Tacoma, most are pleased with its aggressive-looking body style. "The overall exterior of the Tacoma is well done, and an impeccable level of fit and finish is a known characteristic of Toyota products," says Kelley Blue Book. With a simple design and long list of standard convenience features, reviewers find the Tacoma's interior cabin to be just as pleasing.
The Tacoma fares well in both government and private crash tests. Moreover, Toyota's long history of reliability instills confidence in its durability. In fact, Kelley Blue Book says, "When it comes to reliability in this segment, many organizations rank it at the top of its class." BusinessWeek adds, "Tacomas have such a strong reputation for quality and reliability that late-model used ones often sell for almost as much as new vehicles."
IntelliChoice gives the Toyota Tacoma a rating of "excellent" for its predicted five-year total cost of ownership, compared to other vehicles in its class. According to MSN, "The new Tacoma is exceptionally competitive and -- more than ever -- is among the best pickup truck buys." Kelley Blue Book adds, "Its closest competitors are now the Dodge Dakota and Nissan Frontier and, while worthy opponents, neither can touch the Tacoma's long history of reliability and high resale value."
The 2007 Tacoma is available in three body styles -- Regular Cab, Access Cab, and Double Cab -- and features nine different trims, including several different powertrain choices.
Tacoma Performance - 7.7 (Good)
The 2007 Toyota Tacoma receives accolades for its powerful V6 engine and refined five-speed automatic transmission, as well as its adequate hauling capacity and impressive off-road handling. "This is plenty of truck for 95 percent of truck buyers, everyone who isn't hauling plywood or pulling 40-foot goosenecks," says Car and Driver. Nevertheless, a harsh suspension prevents performance from being ideal. continue
Tacoma Exterior - 7.3 (Good)
Most auto reviewers agree that while the 2007 Toyota Tacoma isn't the best-looking vehicle in its class, it does have a handsome road-dominating appearance. "The Toyota Tacoma is an attractive truck, though not as stylish as those from Nissan, Dodge and other manufacturers," says Automotive.com. continue
Tacoma Interior - 7.7 (Good)
Reviewers, on balance, seem pleased with the 2007 Toyota Tacoma's simple interior design, supportive seats, and impressive list of standard convenience features. Still, many complain that only the Double Cab's rear seats are comfortable for passengers. According to Kelley Blue Book, "On the Double Cab, the big back doors open up to a back seat as roomy as that in many small sedans." continue
Tacoma Safety - 9.3 (Excellent)
With a long list of standard safety features and government crash test scores that impress, it's no surprise that Automobile Magazine reports that, "The Tacoma was built to passenger-car safety standards." continue
Tacoma Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2007 Toyota Tacoma reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Every new Tacoma comes with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. continue
