Overview
The 2022 Toyota Tacoma is a rugged and reliable mid-size pickup truck, excelling in off-road capabilities and work duties. While its interior space and driving refinement may lag behind others, the Tacoma’s toughness, standard driver-assistance tech, and legendary reliability make it a top choice.
Price
The 2022 Toyota Tacoma starts at $28,485 for the SR trim, reaching $41,670 for the Nightshade model. The recommended TRD Off-Road crew cab costs $36,675, offering an electronic locking rear differential and optional four-wheel drive.
Engine and Transmission
The Tacoma’s optional 270-hp V-6 engine provides decent performance, but the base four-cylinder is underpowered. The six-speed manual transmission is preferred over the clumsy six-speed automatic. The TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro models excel off-road, while the TRD Sport and Limited focus on city driving.
Dimensions and Interior
The Tacoma’s utilitarian cabin features hard plastics and minimalistic materials. Legroom is limited, especially in the rear seat. Cargo space is ample, with a five-foot or six-foot bed, but interior storage is restricted. The crew cab holds only nine carry-ons in the back seat.
Performance
The Tacoma shines off-road, with a flexible suspension and rugged equipment. The TRD Pro model boasts a lifted suspension, beefy shock absorbers, and gnarly tires. On pavement, the Limited delivers a smoother ride, but handling and ride quality lag behind others.
Fuel Economy
EPA estimates rank the V-6 Tacoma’s fuel economy mid-pack, but real-world testing reveals shortcomings. The manual transmission with V-6 has the worst fuel economy but is more enjoyable to drive. In testing, the Tacoma matched its EPA highway estimate of 23 mpg.
The 2022 Toyota Tacoma is a rugged, reliable workhorse, ideal for off-road enthusiasts and workers. While its interior and driving refinement may not impress, the Tacoma’s legendary reliability, standard tech, and impressive off-road capabilities secure its spot as a top mid-size pickup truck. With careful trim selection, the Tacoma remains a compelling choice for those prioritizing toughness and utility.