Used 2011
Toyota Tacoma Access Cab Pickup

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.

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.

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.

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)