Lasting Impressions
One thing we all agreed on was that the Tacoma would be an absolute dream ride for those in their younger years. It looks cool, it's fun to drive, and it's capable enough to where you don't have to spend a ton (or any) money to make it a formidable wheeling machine. Sure, the interior is a bit dated, but it's completely livable, and almost welcomed in today's overly complex digital displays. It feels like a mini-truck, acts like a mini-truck, and is fun to drive both on- and off-road. Spend a little time muffling the interior creaks and you'll find yourself with a truck fun to pilot around town, on the highway, and in the dirt on the weekend.
What's hot: Desert-tuned suspension, torquey engine, rear locker, six-speed manual, awesome styling, fun to drive
What's not: Outdated interior, noisy cabin, invasive electronics, graphic package, poor four-wheel drive engagement
Our take: One awesome taco with plenty of fixin's
Logbook quotes:
"Fun to drive, but noisy"
"Great looking exterior, but needs an interior update"
"Excellent power and gear selection"