Your Guide to the Toyota Tacoma’s Three Latest Generations

As your go-to place to find quality used trucks for sale near Halfmoon, we here at DePaula Ford want to help make sure you get the best pickup possible for your individual needs. While we’re partial to the excellent Ford lineup, we know that other automakers also produce fantastic trucks, and we’re proud to offer these to our customers in our used inventory.

We also know that looking through pre-owned options can be complicated, with not only multiple trims to consider but also multiple model years across generations. Today, we’re going to help you make sense of your options if you’re in the market for a used Toyota Tacoma. This midsize truck is well-known for its reliability and its capable off-road trims.

We’re going to dive into the three most recent generations to explore some of the major changes they have undergone over the years. If you want to make sure you get a particular feature, then keep these model years in mind while you browse. You can also use our website to filter for trucks that have what you’re looking for, to get a great idea of all the options at your fingertips when you shop with us. Of course, if you need any guidance in finding the perfect match, our teams are ready to help.

Tacoma Generation Two (2005 – 2015)

The second generation offered a variety of new enhancements, making it a great place to start. Let’s take a closer look at some notable model years to be on the lookout for, and some of their standout features.

2009

For this mid-generation refresh, the Tacoma made a variety of features standard that we tend to take for granted today. If safety is at the top of your list, check out models from 2009 and newer, as they will be equipped with crucial safety tools such as:

• Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
• Electronic traction control
• Electronic stability control
• Front-seat side-impact airbags
• Full-length side curtain airbags

2012

For the 2012 model year, the truck got a refresh that gave it more modern exterior styling and an updated interior. Important upgrades for today’s drivers include USB ports and Bluetooth connectivity, making it possible to charge smartphones and stream audio through the truck’s speakers. Beyond that, this generation saw some upgrades for TRD off-road models, worth considering if you like to explore the natural beauty around Halfmoon.

Tacoma Generation Three (2016 – 2023)

The third-generation Tacoma debuted with a new V6 engine that raised the truck’s maximum towing capacity to 6,800 lbs while also improving fuel economy. Paired with a stiffer frame and retuned suspension, this results in a better overall driving experience. The cabin is also quieter than it was in the previous generation, so people will have a better experience whether they’re sitting behind the wheel or in a passenger seat as you cruise downtown streets.

2016

The 2016 model features a standard infotainment system complete with a 6.1-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, and Siri Eyes Free, which helps drivers use voice commands for smartphone activities like calling and texting, thereby avoiding distractions. If infotainment systems are important to you, this is probably the farthest you should go back, so you can ensure that you’ll get the basics that you need to stay connected on the go.

2018

When it comes to safety technology, the 2018 Tacoma comes standard with the features drivers are looking for. This is the first model year to come standard with Toyota Safety Sense P, which is a suite that includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, automatic high-beam headlights, lane departure alert, and dynamic radar cruise control. Other features, such as a blind spot monitor, are available but not standard, so you’ll need to pay attention to the trim level you’re considering to ensure you get them.

2020

If you’re looking for a truck that truly feels “like-new” with modern conveniences you may have come to expect in this day and age, the 2020 Tacoma is the oldest model to meet your needs. This is the year when Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were added to the infotainment system as standard fare, allowing you to hook your smartphone up to the truck’s interface to not just stream audio or communicate with voice commands, but to use a wide variety of apps, including navigation, directly through the onboard touchscreen.

Other upgrades for this model year include a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat that allows you to easily find your ideal position for comfort on long drives, and available LED headlights, which are particularly useful for off-roaders who want full visibility in remote areas after sunset. Speaking of improved off-road visibility, Toyota also added a Multi-Terrain Monitor to TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims, using a variety of camera angles to help you see low-lying obstacles.

Tacoma Generation Four (2024 – Present)

For its fourth generation, the Tacoma got a major change: a whole new platform. The midsize truck now shares a platform with the full-size Tundra truck (as well as the full-size Sequoia SUV). The lineup of powertrains got a full refresh as well.

Performance Upgrades

Both third-generation powertrains were retired to make way for a turbocharged I-4 and a hybrid that pairs that turbo I-4 with electric power for even higher stats as well as better fuel economy. The non-hybrid engine paired with the base SR trim delivers 228 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque (up from 159 hp and 180 lb-ft on the outgoing base powertrain). Higher trims can boost that to as much as 278 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid option produces figures as high as 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque, while also improving fuel economy to 24 MPG combined, paired with 4WD.

Towing and Payload

When it comes to towing and hauling, the generational change is more of a mixed bag. The maximum payload figure dips on the base engine, from 1,685 lbs on the third generation to 1,500 lbs on the fourth generation, although it climbs to over 1,700 lbs on any trim other than the entry-level SR. With the hybrid, a maximum payload of 1,705 lbs beats out both of the third-generation powertrains (the V6 was actually slightly lower than the old I-4, with 1,525 lbs). Towing on the base engine remains the same at 3,500 lbs. The non-SR, non-hybrid can handle up to 6,500 lbs, while the heavier hybrid can support only up to 6,000 lbs.

Other Additions

On top of that, the fourth generation also gains enhanced driver assistance tech, a larger touchscreen of up to 14 inches, and an eight-speed automatic transmission, replacing the old six-speed. A six-speed manual still remains an option, a rarity among modern vehicles.

Find Your Pre-Owned Tacoma With Us Today

When looking for your truck, remember that there’s no need to get hung up on which generation is objectively “best.” The real question is: which model is best for you and your particular needs, especially when getting around Halfmoon and beyond? If you frequently drive long distances and require the best fuel economy possible, consider searching for a like-new model from the most recent generation. If you want the most towing capability possible, generation three is probably your sweet spot. And if you’re looking for a bargain or prefer retro styling, generation two might fit you just right.

Once you know which one you want, you can narrow your options down and consider factors such as trim levels, configurations, and other details. Take it one step at a time, and you’ll end up with a truck that fits your needs perfectly so you can make the most of your time behind the wheel. Stop by today and let us help you find the ideal model.