2005 Toyota Tacoma: Tester's Comments
Archived Review
2005 Toyota Tacoma ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $13,415 -$25,250
- Invoice: $12,432 -$22,886
Reviews & Ratings
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Toyota Tacoma
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Find out what the Consumer Guide Automotive testers had to say about the 2005 Toyota Tacoma. See if the 2005 Toyota Tacoma is right for you.
Vehicle Evaluated
| Make/Model: | 2005 Toyota Tacoma (long term) |
|---|---|
| Trim Level: | Base regular cab |
| Arrival Date: | 06/09/2005 |
| Engine: | dohc V6 |
| Bodystyle | crew cab long bed |
| Transmission: | 5-speed automatic |
| 4WD/AWD: | Yes |
| Base Price: | 24,750 |
| Price as Tested: | 30,424 |
| Mileage at Beginning of Test: | 3862 |
| Mileage at End of Test: | 7548 |
| Total Measured Miles: | 3686 |
| Total Fuel Used: | 209.384 gals. |
| Consumer Guide Fuel Economy: | 16.57 mpg (what's this?) |
| Problems During Test: | None |
Advertisement
Major Options
JBL 6-disc CD changer, amplifier, 6 speakers and subwoofer, steering wheel controls, curtain airbags, TRD Off-Road Package with tow hitch (offroad tuned suspension, 16" alloy wheels,locking rear differential, engine skidplate, front tow hook, foglamps, Class 4 hitch, transmission oil coolers, heavy duty battery, remote keyless entry, cruise control, variable intermittent wipers, multifunction overhead console with compass and temperature gauge, chrome grille surround and rear bumper, color-keyed front bumper and overfenders, sliding rear window with privacy glass, sport seats with driver lumbar support and sport fabric trim, metallic tone instrument panel, leather steering wheel, sunvisors with mirrors and extenders) daytime running lights, carpet floor mats, bed mat
From the Back Seat
John Biel
With about five-grand in options--including a $3700 off-road package--this test vehicle crosses the $30,000 barrier. Most of those options make it a more capable truck, however, which is to the good. How is it, by the way, that this vehicle comes with a fully lined and accessorized cargo bed, and a "luxury truck" like the Lincoln Mark LT comes with nothing more than an entry-level painted metal bed?
John Biel
With the 5-foot cargo bed, as on this test vehicle, the Tacoma Double Cab is more of a four-wheel-drive four-door sedan than a serious "working" pickup. The Ford Ranger/Mazda B-Series offers the longest bed choices in the "compact" or "intermediate" pickup field--up to seven feet. It's clear that for serious work, a buyer still needs a full-size truck, though.
Kirk Bell
In a class where some trucks are too big and some are too small, the Tacoma is just right. The back seat is usable by adults, but the Tacoma isn't a fullsize in midsize clothing like the Dakota. The V6 is plenty powerful and the interior materials are appropriate for the price. I'd avoid our long-term tester's $3000 TRD package as it excacerbates a common flaw of most pickups, making the ride even choppier. As an added plus, you can't beat Tacoma resale values.
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
