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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2011 Toyota Tacoma Access Cab

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Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2013 Toyota Tacoma Access Cab

Overview

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2011 Toyota Tacoma Access Cab Review

By KBB.com Editors

KBB Expert Rating: 6.5

The 2011 Toyota Tacoma is the best selling compact pickup five years running. While some competitors, such as the Ford Explorer Sport Trac, are bowing out of the compact pickup segment all together, Toyota has expanded is presences by adding five new trims to the Tundra line up. Of course, the term compact doesn't necessarily mean small, as the Toyota dwarfs the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado in every area that counts. It's now more akin to the midsize Dodge Dakota and Nissan Frontier, and not all together much smaller than some full-size regular cab pickups. And, while the Frontier and Dakota are worthy competitors, neither can match the Tacoma's excellent resale value and overall history of reliability.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you're looking for a capable pickup larger than a Chevrolet Colorado, but not as massive as a Ford F-150, the 2011 Toyota Tacoma deserves your attention. Beyond its cult-like following, many consumer groups rank the Tacoma at the top of their reliability and repair charts.

You May Not Like This Car If...

Unlike many crossovers and car-based truck variants, the Tacoma still delivers very truck-like ride and handling characteristics. If you need less off-road ability and more on road comfort, the Honda Ridgeline might make a better choice.

What's New for 2011

Five new fuel-efficient models join the Tacoma lineup for 2011, all equipped with the 2.7-liter engine. New trims include the T|X and T|X Pro Package, both based on last year's SEMA concept trucks. New features for 2011 include standard air conditioning on Regular Cab models and satellite radio on all models equipped with the six-disc CD changer.

Driving the Tacoma Access Cab

Driving Impressions We tested a 2011 Tacoma Double Cab with a long bed and 4.0-liter V6 engine teamed to a five-speed automatic transmission. Our test vehicle was also equipped with four-wheel drive...

and the SR5 package that included an automatic limited-slip differential. On the highway, our Tacoma rode rather nicely, but it almost seemed out of its element when asked to negotiate city streets. Put the pedal to the floor, however, and the Tacoma's V6 engine roars to life, conveying a refined sort of ruggedness. Still, we couldn't escape the feeling that the Tacoma would be happier hauling or towing something or negotiating rocks in a river rather than running suburban-type errands. To be honest, that's exactly the attitude many buyers require for a truck. However, if you don't count yourself an off-road enthusiast or weekend rock warrior, the SUV-like ride provided by the Honda Ridgeline is probably a better fit.

Favorite Features

Supercharger Kit
The optional Eaton-Roots type supercharger kit increases the V6's output to 304 horsepower and 334 lb.-ft. of torque, and carries a five-year/60,000-mile warranty (or the remainder of the powertrain warranty at the time of installation) when installed by a Toyota dealer.

Functional Bed
All Tacomas feature a composite inner bed with built-in storage compartments and four rail-mounted sliding tie-down cleats.

2011 Toyota Tacoma Access Cab Details

Interior

The 2011 Toyota Tacoma's roomy interior includes a recessed, three-ring instrument cluster that looks handsome and is easily viewable from the driver's seat no matter what the driver's size. Most, if not all of the controls are easy to reach and adjust, and steering wheel-mounted controls for the radio are available. The Tacoma's firm seats include firm bolstering in key areas and numerous adjustable points to support most body types and sizes. Access Cab models feature a small rear seat area suitable only for short trips. Frequent four-passenger journeys are best suited for the Double Cab, which features big back doors that open wide for easy entry and exit.

Exterior

The 2011 Toyota Tacoma combines classic Toyota truck styling with some of the oversized features commonly found on full-size domestic trucks. A new grille and more trims this year expand the Tacoma's wide-ranging personality profile, touting oversized headlamps, chrome or black-out grille treatment and an assortment of wheel and tire packages. As with all Toyota products, the Tacoma's overall fit and finish are impeccable, with tight tolerances between body panels, glossy paint and doors the shut with a solid "thunk". Unique features include a class-first roof-rack system on Double Cab models and integrated bed deck rails that can be used to secure optional accessories, such as the fork-mounted bike rack and diamond-plate storage boxes. The Tacoma's bed features a protective composite bed liner that is both durable and light.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

The two-wheel-drive Tacoma's base four-cylinder engine displaces 2.7 liters. Other standard equipment includes air conditioning, an AM/FM stereo with single CD system, anti-lock brakes (ABS), front side-impact and side curtain airbags, traction and stability control, tachometer, two instrument panel powerpoints and rear mudguards. Regular Cab 4x4 models with the automatic transmission feature standard bucket seats. Access Cab X-Runner and Double Cab models include bucket seats with center console, power mirrors, power windows and power door locks.

Optional Equipment

Options for the 2011 Tacoma include a 4.0-liter V6, four-wheel drive, JBL audio with Bluetooth connectivity, and the SR5 Packages which adds color-keyed overfenders and front bumper, chrome grille surround and a chrome rear bumper. Double and Access Cabs can be fit with a rear backup camera while transmission upgrades from the base five-speed manual include a four-speed automatic, five-speed automatic and six-speed manual. Optional body configurations include Access Cab and Double Cab models, plus a long bed. Hill-start Assist (HAC) is available on V6 models with automatic transmissions. There are also a myriad of TRD parts available including the Big Brake Package and a supercharger. In addition, a limited run of T|X and T|X Pro Package features can be added to TRD equipped truck. The T|X trim adds 16-inch black bead-lock alloy wheels, black tube side steps and unique exterior graphics. The Pro Package takes it a step further, adding a cat-back custom exhaust.

Under the Hood

Both the four-cylinder and the V6 Tacoma engines feature Toyota's VVT-i technology (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence) that minimizes the compromise between low-end torque and peak horsepower. Combined with a choice of four available transmissions, two- or four-wheel drive, three cab styles and more, Toyota makes it easy to get exactly the pickup you want. Maximum towing and payload capacities are 6,500 pounds and 1,535 pounds, respectively.}

2.7-liter in-line 4
159 horsepower @ 5200 rpm
180 lb.-ft. of torque @ 3800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 21/25 (2WD, manual), 19/25 (2WD, automatic),
18/20 (4WD, manual), 18/21 (4WD, automatic)

4.0-liter V6
236 horsepower @ 5200 rpm
266 lb.-ft. of torque @ 3800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/19 (2WD, manual), 17/21 (2WD, automatic), 14/18 (4WD, manual), 16/20 (4WD, automatic)

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2011 Toyota Tacoma Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

9.2

Out of 10

Based on 1261 Ratings for the 2005 - 2013 models.

Review this car

Value

9.3/10

Quality

9.4/10
Reliability

9.6/10

Performance

9.3/10
Comfort

9.0/10

Styling

9.3/10

Best truck out there

By reb1 (VA) on Monday, May 20, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 8,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Comfort, style, tough and maintains great value."

Cons: "17 MPG city, approximately 21 MPG highway"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I've owned 3 Tacoma 4x4's and have loved each one of them. Each time I've purchased a new one for the upgrades. I've had my vehical off road and also on long trips and it performs superb in any environment. It drives very smooth on the road and open highway and yet it can keep up with the most rugged off road trucks and jeeps. I would definately recomend this vehical."

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Third one I've owned, best yet!!!

By Ken (OR) on Tuesday, May 14, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 7,150

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "The best, for me!!!!"

Cons: "All I want!!"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Everything I want in a medium truck, extra power for pulling house trailer and convenience as the four-wheel drive makes this truck and other Tacomas very handy. I'll be keeping this one a long time!!!!"

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Good sturdy truck not as awkward a the Tundra.

By T (MA) on Tuesday, May 14, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 14,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Easy to drive."

Cons: "Gas pedal to close to brake. Cool aji A/C goes on"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Have no problem with it I just trade every three years and probably trade in Feburary of 2014> just getting my numbers early."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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Everything I wanted in a truck.

By HappyDaddy (NC) on Tuesday, May 07, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 3,700

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Great look, comfy interior, excellent sound sytem."

Cons: "Rides better when there is some weight in the back"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I have had my eye on the Tacoma for several years, opting for this over the larger and more expensive Tundra. I purchased a 2013 V6 4x4 crew cab long bed and I absolutely love it. Roomy enough to take the family on vacation, we have our first long-distance trip planned for the summer. The long bed and tow package offers the versatility of the bigger trucks without feeling too bulky on the road. It handles well, especially when carrying cargo. I highly recommend this vehicle to anyone who wants to have a great family vehicle that is truly utilitarian. I plan on keeping it for a very long time."

5 people out of 5 found this review helpful

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Baddest tower/ off road capable

By Tacolover (TX) on Monday, May 06, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 110,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "4x4 is very capable with locker and 4.0/ reliable"

Cons: "Stupid recalls that mean nothing."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Don't underestimate this truck. The 4x4 will go anywhere with standard or just above standard without mods other than tires. I have a 2005 and 2012 Baja both are 4x4. My 05 with the supercharger 6 speed manual will run with any full size truck. And will tow anything you hook it to. I once pulled a ram and a s10 both at the same time out of a mud hole. If you want a truck that will perform and work the Tacoma is for you. I will never have another truck other than the Tacoma I don't like getting stuck or let down."

3 people out of 3 found this review helpful

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This is a great small truck!

By Chris (AZ) on Saturday, May 04, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 69,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 9/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Low maintainence, great design"

Cons: "Sensor indicators, lack of molding, no ashtray"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Never having a truck before I decided to buy the 2006 Tacoma regular cab. I wanted something that I could fit into (6'4" and 260lbs) but not spend alot on gas with the bigger models. I've had it for 7 years now and keep up on the routine oil changes and suggested lifetime maintainence. I've only had a few inconvienences. Those being *Floor matt* and sprial cable recalls. Two things that are minor that I don't care for or wish was different would be 1)molding on the sides of the door to stop knick/dents from others doors 2) not have the tire sensors. It's aggravating to have the light come on without a real indication of what the problem is. It could mean that you need air in the spare (a pain), oil change reminder to something more serious. Plus you have to turn off the light manually. I've gone in for an oil change and the techs either forget or don't know how to turn it off. I live in the desert where the sun is a killer on most cars interior. My dash and other plastics look almost as good as the day I got it. Smokers beware...there is NO ashtray! The gas milage is around 15/23 mpg. If you're looking for a great smaller truck I'd recommend this one!"

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