2016–2023 Toyota Tacoma

A rugged utilitarian compact pickup prioritizing off-road capability and reliability over comfort. Excellent off-road capability particularly in TRD versions, strong Toyota reliability, holds value surprisingly well making bargain used ones hard to find. However, ride is stiff with ponderous handling and very loud cabin. Driving position awkwardly low with high floor and low roof making access tricky. Rudimentary interior materials.

The Tacoma TRD 4×4 is right-sized - not too big, not too small with excellent maneuverability in tight parking and city streets, smooth ride quality with good ground clearance on highways and rough roads, and cargo versatility with crew cab and bed handling 8-foot steel shelves. Lighter on muscle - can't carry or tow as much as full-size trucks. Interior spartan though well-made like Corolla. Modest 20 mpg city fuel economy.

The 2016 Tacoma is capable off-roader but not revolutionary. Excellent off-road performance with good clearance and available TRD features, improved V6 power (278 HP, up 42 HP) with better fuel economy than predecessor, and class-leading 1,620 lb payload (up 200 lb). Disappointing fuel economy - four-cylinder worse highway MPG than 2015, V6 trails Colorado's efficiency. Unremarkable on-road - feels floaty with unimpressive handling. Doesn't taste sufficiently new vs GM competitors.