Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma, the best-selling compact pickup truck in North America since 2005, offers two new packages for 2011 based on a concept truck first shown at the 2009 Specialty Equipment Marketing Association (SEMA) Show. The T|X and T|X Pro packages, available in conjunction with the Off-Road Package, add Toyota Racing Development (TRD) accessories in a unique combination at a special value price.

 While other manufacturers are scaling back on or even abandoning the compact pickup segment, Toyota is bolstering its position as the clear leader, adding more value and offering new model variations tailored to the market. Three low-volume models have been discontinued to accommodate the addition of five four-cylinder models in response to a growing focus on fuel economy and cost of operation. All Toyota Tacoma grades feature new grille trim.

New Four-Cylinder Models

Toyota has added five four-cylinder variants to the Toyota Tacoma line for 2011, expanding choices for customers seeking higher value and fuel economy. The five models include: Access Cab 4x2 PreRunner four-speed automatic; Double Cab 4x2 four-speed automatic; Double Cab 4x2 PreRunner four-speed automatic; Regular Cab 4x4 four-speed automatic; and Access Cab 4x4 four-speed automatic.

Performance

The 2011 Tacoma line offers two engines: a 2.7-liter Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) four-cylinder that produces 159 horsepower with 180 lb-ft. of torque and a 4.0-liter DOHC V6 that outputs 236 horsepower with 266 lb-ft. of torque. In both engines, variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i) provides strong low-end and mid-range torque.

 An Electronic Throttle Control System with intelligence (ETCS-i) helps optimize performance and fuel economy. The V6 engine can be teamed with either a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission. Four-cylinder models offer a choice between a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic transmission. When equipped with a V6 Tow Package Access Cab models boast a maximum tow capacity of 6,500 pounds.

Handling and Ride

Toyota Tacoma offers some of the most sophisticated dynamic control technology in the segment. Standard on all Tacoma models is the Toyota Star Safety System™, which includes the anti-lock braking system (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC). An Automatic Limited-slip Differential (Auto-LSD), which uses brake intervention to help reduce tire slippage at the rear wheels, is standard on all Toyota Tacoma models.

The VSC system, which integrates TRAC, enhances traction on, or off-road, by helping to keep the vehicle on its intended course. VSC detects front-wheel slide and rear-wheel slide during cornering and attempts to control either condition with throttle intervention and/or by braking individual wheels. Auto-LSD employs the sensors and hardware to help provide the limited-slip effect on the rear wheels.

EBD optimizes brake pressure at each wheel independently for greater control under braking, especially when cornering. BA is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking. If the driver has not pressed firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage the ABS, the system supplements applied braking power until pedal pressure is released.

 The TRD Off-Road Package on 4x4 V6 automatic models includes Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and Downhill Assist Control (DAC). HAC operates by independently controlling the brakes at each wheel as needed to help prevent the vehicle from rolling backward or slipping sideways during a transition from a stopped position to climbing a grade. DAC uses engine braking to regulate downhill speed and independently control the brakes at each wheel to help improve directional control. DAC automatically de-activates if the driver depresses the brake or accelerator pedals, presses the DAC button, or shifts into neutral.

To serve the specific needs of the off-road enthusiast, TRD Off-Road Packages feature a locking rear differential that can be activated from an electronic switch mounted in the cab. This on-demand feature allows the power to be evenly distributed to both rear wheels to increase overall traction. An electronic rear differential is available on 4x4 models and the 4x2 PreRunner.

Comfort and Convenience

The well-equipped 4x2 Regular Cab model has standard air conditioning; a full-size spare tire; AM/FM CD four-speaker sound system; tachometer; digital clock; two instrument panel powerpoints with a lighter; dome lamp; and rear mudguards. Regular Cab 4x4 models with the automatic transmission feature standard bucket seats for 2011.

Toyota Tacoma Access Cab and Double Cab models add more standard features, including power windows and door locks, bucket seats and a center console. In Double Cab models, power mirrors and driver seat adjustable lumbar support are also standard.

Exterior Design

The 2011 Tacoma configurations are based on three cab types: Regular Cab, Access Cab, and the four-door Double Cab. The rear doors on Access Cab models open to 80 degrees to give passengers easy ingress and egress.

With its big, bold headlights and grille, Toyota Tacoma projects a strong, rugged appearance. Flush rear surface glass and surface structures between the bumper sides and body give Toyota Tacoma a sophisticated, clean look. PreRunner and 4x4 models are distinguished by bold overfenders. PreRunner models combine the 4x2 drivetrain with the 4x4's raised riding stance and styling. Double Cab models offer a roof rack system with crossbars that deploy from the roof rails.

 Toyota Tacoma Regular Cab 4x2 models are built on a 109.4-inch wheelbase; PreRunner and 4x4 Regular Cab Tacomas are built on a 110-inch wheelbase; 4x2 Access Cab models (including PreRunner and 4x4) ride on a 127.4-inch wheelbase. The Toyota Tacoma Double Cab with the standard five-foot bed shares the 127.4-inch wheelbase, while the Double Cab long-bed models use a 140.6-inch wheelbase.

The Toyota Tacoma Regular Cab and Access Cab models feature a 73.5-inch-long bed. The Double Cab is available with a choice of a 60.3-inch bed or a 73.5-inch bed. The Tacoma's composite inner bed is made from a sheet-molded compound (SMC) deck and tough and durable walls that are 10 percent lighter than steel. The bed deck features two-tier loading and an integrated deck rail utility with four standard adjustable tie-down cleats. The rails are compatible with Genuine Toyota Accessories, including cargo bed cross bars, a fork-mount bike rack, and diamond-plate storage boxes. An available 115V/400W powerpoint further extends the bed's utility.

Interior Design

The Toyota Tacoma interior provides durability and comfort with high-grade fabric and generous standard equipment. Sound absorption material in the headliner and behind the rear seats, along with insulating carpeting, help to provide a quiet cabin. Exterior aerodynamic details help reduce wind noise.

A three-pod instrument gauge panel lends a sporty look in all models. The center console (standard on Access Cab and Double Cab models) flows into the instrument panel for a unified appearance. The console integrates three cupholders, two of which can accommodate extra-large containers.

 All Toyota Tacoma models provide dual bottle holders in driver's- and passenger's-side doors. Audio controls are mounted high for easy access. Higher-grade models feature fabric-covered sun visors and an overhead console with map lights, as well as compartments for sunglasses and a garage door opener. Interior storage is maximized in Access Cab models with fold up rear seats and underseat storage. Double Cab models feature 60/40 split rear seats with adjustable headrests and under-seat storage.