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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2008 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab

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

Overview

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2008 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab Review

By KBB.com Editors

The 2008 Toyota Tacoma may be the Japanese automaker's smallest pickup, but it has long since left the realm of the compact courier. The Tacoma is the best selling pickup in its segment and dwarfs the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado in every area that counts. Its closest competitors are now the Dodge Dakota and Nissan Frontier and, while worthy opponents, neither can match the Tacoma's long history of reliability and high resale value. Wrapped in muscular, aggressive sheetmetal and touting the most powerful V6 engine ever to grace a small Toyota, the Tacoma has much to offer those who take their pickup trucks seriously.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you're looking for a capable pickup larger than a Ford Ranger, but not as massive as a Dodge Ram, look into the 2008 Toyota Tacoma. When it comes to reliability in this segment, many organizations rank it at the top of its class.

You May Not Like This Car If...

If you've driven the Honda Ridgeline or Nissan Frontier and were impressed by their car-like ride and handling, you might be disappointed that the Tacoma still drives very much like a truck.

What's Significant About This Car?

Toyota Racing Development (TRD) offers a TRD supercharger for Tacomas equipped with the 4.0-liter V6 engine, which can be purchased and installed through the dealership. Also new for 2008 is the TRD Off-Road Rugged Trail Package that includes a locking rear differential, Bilstein shocks, 16-inch Baja wheels, black overfenders and additional skid plates.

Driving the Tacoma Double Cab

Driving Impressions The Tacoma we tested was a Double Cab, long-bed model equipped with a V6, four-wheel drive, five-speed automatic transmission and the SR5 package that includes a limited-slip differential. Put the...

pedal to the floor and you can feel and hear the powerful V6 working, conveying a refined sort of ruggedness. On the highway, our Tacoma rode rather nicely, but it almost seemed out of its element negotiating city streets. In general, the Tacoma always felt like it'd be happier hauling or towing something or negotiating rocks in a river. On one hand, that's exactly the attitude many buyers will require for a truck. On the other hand, the Tacoma's competition includes some other very capable trucks that offer a more "car-like" daily driving experience -- namely the Honda Ridgeline and Nissan Frontier.

Favorite Features

Six-Speed Manual
The Tacoma's six-speed manual transmission helps take full advantage of the available 236-horsepower V6.

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

2008 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab Details

Interior

Getting into and out of the 2008 Toyota Tacoma is easy, and the firm seats are designed with pleasant bolstering and adjustability to fit most body types and sizes. A recessed, three-ring instrument cluster looks handsome and is in clear view. Most, if not all of the controls are easy to reach and adjust, and steering wheel-mounted controls for the radio are available. Overall, the midsize Tacoma feels very roomy. On the Double Cab, the big back doors open up to a back seat as roomy as that in many small sedans.

Exterior

The 2008 Toyota Tacoma succeeds by blending classic Toyota truck styling with design features of some larger domestic models. Oversized headlamps and a wide trapezoidal grille dominate the Tacoma's assertive-looking exterior and, at a glance, the Tacoma might be mistaken for a domestic truck. The overall exterior of the Tacoma is well done, and an impeccable level of fit and finish is a known characteristic of Toyota products. Double Cab models offer a class-first roof-rack system that attaches to the roof rails. Integrated deck rails found in the bed can be used to secure optional accessories, such as the fork-mounted bike rack and diamond-plated 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 an AM/FM CD sound system, anti-lock brakes (ABS), tachometer, two instrument panel powerpoints and rear mudguards. 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 include the 4.0-liter V6, four-wheel drive and SR5 Packages, which add color-keyed overfenders and front bumper, chrome grille surround and a chrome rear bumper. 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. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) is available on all models, while traction control with Hill-start Assist (HAC) is available on V6 models with automatic transmissions. There are also a myriad of TRD parts available including the Off-Road Package and supercharger.

Under the Hood

Both of the Tacoma's engines, the four-cylinder and the V6, 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 1,495 pounds, respectively.

2.7-liter in-line 4
159 horsepower @ 5200 rpm
180 lb.-ft. of torque @ 3800 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 20/25 (2WD, manual), 19/25 (2WD, automatic),
17/22 (4WD, manual)

4.0-liter V6
236 horsepower @ 5200 rpm
266 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/19 (2WD, manual), 15/18 (4WD, manual),
16/20 (2WD, automatic), 16/20 (4WD, automatic)

To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used Toyota Tacoma Double Cab vehicles for sale near you.

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2008 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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