There’s a reason the Toyota Tacoma has been the best-selling compact pickup truck in North America since 2005. To be accurate, there are many reasons, and the 2011 Tacoma has added even more. While other compact pickups are fading away, the Toyota Tacoma keeps getting stronger.
Offering two engines, four transmissions, three bed lengths, three cab styles and four wheelbase lengths, Tacoma gives pickup buyers the kind of choice that others lack. That’s a key reason competitors seem to be surrendering to the Tacoma’s dominance in this segment and slinking away, tailgates tucked between their rear wheels.
Tacoma starts with an MSRP of just $16,365 for a solid, reliable Regular Cab work truck. But don’t call this truck “basic,” especially when it comes to safety. That’s because all 2011 Tacoma models come standard with the Toyota STAR Safety System™, which includes the antilock braking system (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC).
Quality and value rank up there with safety on the list of Tacoma positives. With gasoline prices on the rise, the big news for the 2011 Tacoma is the addition of five more four-cylinder versions. The tough, but smooth 2.7-liter engine is available in a wider variety of model configurations including Access Cab 4x4 and Double Cab 4x2 models. The four-cylinder Regular Cab model delivers up to 25 mpg on the highway, and, with 159 hp and 180 lb/ft of torque, the four provides ample power for work or play.
For those who need the power of a six, the Tacoma’s big 4.0-liter V6 comes through with 236 hp and 266 lb/ft of torque to get the job done. Depending on the model and configuration, it can be teamed with a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.
For the pickup buyer who likes to accessorize his ride, Tacoma’s T|X and T|X Pro Packages, which made their debut at the Specialty Equipment Marketing Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas in 2009, are undoubtedly the big news for 2011. With the T|X concept truck, Toyota showed how to combine its Off-Road Package with Toyota Racing Development (TRD) accessories and unique styling.
The T|X Packages lets you take a Tacoma V6 Access Cab or Double Cab to the extreme with off-road performance and an aggressive look to match. Both packages are based on the TRD Off-Road Package, which includes such hardcore hardware as an electronic locking rear differential, special front springs, Bilstein shock absorbers, a beefier front stabilizer bar and B.F. Goodrich Rugged Trail tires on TRD beadlock wheels. A stainless-steel exhaust tip and black tube steps complete the look.
The T|X Pro Package ups the ante with a Toyota Racing Development (TRD) performance exhaust system and special graphics. Available on either the 4x2 PreRunner models or the 4x4s, the T|X Packages delivers solid savings compared to ordering the packages’ individual items separately.
This isn’t the first time Toyota has brought a custom touch to the Tacoma. The Tacoma X-Runner is unique in the entire pickup truck spectrum. This special model combines sportscar handling with custom truck styling and gives a real performance kick. Based on the Access Cab style, the low, lean X-Runner comes ready to tame any road with a standard V6 paired exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission. It’ll zip from zero-to-60 mph in under seven seconds and, with its special suspension and standard 18-inch wheels, pull 0.9-g in cornering performance. That’s sportscar territory.
Tacoma makes versatility a top priority. Access Cab models offer rear jump seats for occasional passengers while the Double Cab models provide rear-seat roominess for families or work crews. For the ultimate in compact pickup truck versatility, the Double Cab is available in the long-bed configuration. Access Cab and Double Cab models offer the popular SR5 Value Package while select Double Cabs also let you equip your Tacoma with the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road Packages. Double Cab and Access Cab models also offer a backup monitor system. Add the V6 Tow Package to an Access Cab, and you can pull a maximum of 6,500 pounds.
All Tacoma models come standard with the Toyota Care complimentary maintenance program, which covers all oil changes, tire rotation and a 19-point inspection, and provides 24-hour roadside assistance as well for two years or 25,000 miles.
Whether you need a work truck, play truck or something in between, the 2011 Toyota Tacoma offers just the right configuration for you. Come in and see why pickup buyers have made it a best seller.
