New 2018
Toyota Tacoma Double Cab Pickup

America’s best-selling midsize pickup for more than a decade, the comfortable and capable 2018 Toyota Tacoma has been improved with new standard safety technology, including a Pre-Collision system and Lane Departure Alert. Available in six trim levels and over 30 configurations, the new Toyota Tacoma enjoys a stellar reputation for excellent durability and reliability as well as on- and off-road performance. Two engines are available starting with a 2.7-liter 4-cylinder that makes 159 horsepower. We recommend the 278-horsepower 3.5-liter V6, which can be paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual. And when equipped with an optional V6 Tow Package, the Tacoma can tow up to 6,800 pounds. Competitors include the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon, as well as the Nissan Frontier.

For 2018 all Tacoma models gain Toyota Safety Sense electronic driver aids as standard equipment. It includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Sway Warning System, Automatic High Beams and High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. Most trim levels also get a new and distinct grille treatment. The 5-speed manual transmission is no longer available.

PRE-COLLISION SYSTEM
This clever system, which is also found on Toyota’s sedans as well as Lexus cars and SUVs, scans the road ahead for obstacles including other vehicles and pedestrians. When a possible collision is detected it will warn you, but if you do not take action to avoid the accident, the system will apply the truck’s brakes for you.

TRD Pro
The TRD Pro is the ultimate off-road-capable Tacoma. It’s also the most expensive at about $43,000, but its unique list of specialized hardware is worth it. These trucks get Fox shocks, additional ground clearance and thick aluminum skidplates, as well as special tires and other equipment and trim. The Tacoma TRD Pro and the Chevy Colorado ZR2 are the elite off-road machines in this class.

As is Toyota's tradition, assembly quality is excellent. The 2018 Tacoma interior uses high-quality materials on the doors, dash, seats and everywhere else. Overall the Chevy Colorado’s interior is more car-like and it’s quieter, but the dynamic design of the Tacoma’s dash and controls is more interesting. It gets push-button start, and the handy multi-information display between the main gauges displays fuel economy, outside temperature and even off-road info such as trail mode or angle of the Tacoma on a steep hill. The new Tacoma also comes with a new version of Entune, the connectivity and entertainment-control center, and Qi wireless charging. However, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto aren't available on any model. Neither are power seats.

Now in its third generation, the Toyota Tacoma was redesigned extensively in 2015 and it still looks fresh. Designed and built in the United States, the 2018 Toyota Tacoma looks rugged and carries the kind of swagger most pickup truck buyers appreciate. But it’s no wallflower, and it certainly isn’t old school. There are modern cues, such as LED daytime running lights, and the separate models -- SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Pro and Limited -- each get different front-end styling, making it easy to tell which is which at a glance. Our Tacoma TRD Pro drew a crowd at gas stations and thumbs-up from other truck enthusiasts.