New for 2017

The TRD Pro off-road model joins the lineup for 2017. Toyota also added new option packages for the SR5 model.

Work hard, play hard

The 2017 Toyota Tacoma has everything you might want in a reliable work vehicle or a fun off-road toy. The Tacoma has a well-deserved reputation for reliability and versatility, and thanks to the available TRD Sport and TRD Pro models, the Tacoma also boasts serious off-road capability.

Performance

The 2017 Toyota Tacoma combines powerful and efficient engines with genuine off-road capability to make for a capable and fun truck.

Base models get a 2.7-liter four-cylinder with 159 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. All Tacoma models include the choice of rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, and a four-cylinder engine is available with a six-speed automatic transmission with either configuration. A five-speed manual is also available on four-wheel drive models.

Automatic four-cylinder models get an EPA-rated 21 mpg combined (19 mpg city, 23 mpg highway) with rear-wheel drive and 20 mpg combined (19 mpg city, 22 mpg highway).* The four-wheel drive manual version 20 mpg combined (19 mpg city, 21 mpg highway).*

The optional engine is a 3.5-liter V6 that uses the Atkinson cycle, just like the engines in Toyota’s hybrids. It also uses Toyota’s D-4S system—which combines direct and port fuel injection—for added efficiency. The V6 produces 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is available on rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive models, and a six-speed manual is also available with four-wheel drive.

Automatic V6 Tacoma models get an EPA-rated 21 mpg combined (19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway) with rear-wheel drive, and 20 mpg combined (18 mpg city, 23 mpg highway) with four-wheel drive.* With the six-speed manual transmission, the V6 Tacoma gets 19 mpg combined (17 mpg city, 21 mpg highway).*

Toyota has always emphasized genuine off-road ability with the Tacoma, and it continues to do so with the new-for-2017 TRD Pro model. It includes a specially tuned suspension, a 1.0-inch lift, Fox shock absorbers, a front skid plate, and Goodyear Wrangler® All-Terrain Kevlar®-reinforced tires. Properly equipped V6 Tacoma models can also tow up to 6,800 pounds.

Features

The 2017 Toyota Tacoma is a midsize pickup truck available in up to 31 combinations of cab, bed, and trim. There are two cab styles: extended Access Cab and four-door Double Cab. Access Cab models get a 73.7-inch bed, while Double Cab models get either 60.5 or 73.7-inch beds. Toyota also offers six trim levels, priced starting from $24,120.**

The base Tacoma SR comes standard with a bed deck-rail system with four adjustable tie-down cleats, integrated tailgate spoiler, tilt/telescope steering column, steering wheel audio controls, integrated GoPro windshield mount, Entune™ Audio system with 6.1-inch touchscreen, Siri® Eyes Free voice control, and other features.

The SR5 model includes all of the standard features from the SR, plus items like fog lights, a 4.2-inch multi-information display, and a leather-trimmed steering wheel with audio and Bluetooth® controls.

The TRD Sport adds LED daytime running lights, a 120-volt deck-mounted AC power outlet, 17-inch alloy wheels, Qi wireless phone charging, leather-trimmed shift lever, auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass, and sport-tuned shocks. The TRD Off-Road builds on the TRD Sport’s capabilities with an off-road tuned suspension with Bilstein® shocks, and other features.

The Tacoma Limited is the most luxurious option, with all of the applicable standard equipment from the other models, plus a power moonroof, 18-inch alloy wheels, heated leather seats, Entune™ Premium JBL® Audio system with navigation, and more.

For 2017, Toyota also added the TRD Pro off-road model to the lineup. It brings suspension and tire upgrades over the TRD Sport model, plus 16-inch TRD black alloy wheels, LED fog lights and daytime running lights, a TRD-specific hood and badging, black leather-trimmed heated front seats, leather-trimmed steering wheel, and other model-specific trim elements.

Design

The current-generation Toyota Tacoma screams “tough truck” thanks to its rugged and aggressive styling. It was designed by Toyota’s CALTY U.S. studio in California. Toyota says the styling was inspired by desert race trucks, and it includes some functional elements, like the boxy wheel openings that make extra room for suspension travel.

The interior aims for an upscale feel with soft-touch trim and metallic accents. Technology features include a 6.1-inch central touchscreen display, Qi wireless phone charging, and a supplementary 4.2-inch multi-information display. Toyota describes the seating as “throne-like,” meaning drivers get the same commanding view of the road as in an SUV.

Safety

Standard safety equipment on the 2017 Toyota Tacoma includes Toyota’s Star Safety System™, which bundles anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, and other features. Also standard is Hill Start Assist Control, active headrests, and a full array of airbags.

Verdict

The 2017 Toyota Tacoma is a versatile and dependable midsize truck that's designed to stand the tests of time. 

For more information or to schedule a test drive of the 2017 Toyota Tacoma, contact us online or visit Mills Toyota at 3700 US Hwy 71 S, Willmar, MN 56201.

*EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.

**Prices are manufacturer’s suggested retail prices (MSRP) and do not include delivery, processing and handling fee, which is $940 for light trucks.

Image: Toyota