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2007 Toyota Tacoma Road Test
Date Published: 7/31/08
Our road test for the 2007 Toyota Tacoma includes a full evaluation of the 2007 Toyota Tacoma from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2007 Toyota Tacoma, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2007 Toyota Tacoma help you decide if a 2007 Toyota Tacoma is right for you.
2007 Toyota Tacoma Road Test
Pros Cons
Instruments/controls Rear-seat room/comfort (XtraCab)
Acceleration (V6) Ride (4WD w/TRD Off-Road suspension)
Steering/handling (XRunner)
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration

PreRunner Double Cab, V6 auto. X-Runner PreRunner Access Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 man. 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 auto. Class Average
5 7 6 5 5

No regular-cab or 4-cyl models made available for test. V6 versions feel strong in most situations. Test 2WD PreRunner Access Cab with manual transmission did 7.9 sec 0-60 mph. Automatic transmission shifts smoothly, downshifts quickly for passing. Maximum towing capacity is 6500 lb.
Fuel Economy

PreRunner Double Cab, V6 auto. X-Runner PreRunner Access Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 man. 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 auto. Class Average
4 4 4 4 3.8

Extended-use automatic-transmission 4WD Double Cab averaged 16.6 mpg over 3686 miles. Based on EPA fuel-economy estimates, expect 4-cyl models to average in the low-20-mpg range. Four-cyl Tacomas use regular-grade fuel. Toyota recommends premium for V6 models.
Ride Quality

PreRunner Double Cab, V6 auto. X-Runner PreRunner Access Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 man. 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 auto. Class Average
5 4 3 3 4.6

Most models fairly controlled and comfortable for compact pickups, but optional TRD Off-Road suspension makes ride bouncy, stiff. X-Runner's sport suspension and low-profile tires annoy less, but try before you buy.
Steering/Handling/Braking

PreRunner Double Cab, V6 auto. X-Runner PreRunner Access Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 man. 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 auto. Class Average
4 7 4 4 3.9

Among models made available for testing, X-Runner has almost sporty-car moves, with little body lean in fast corners and strong brakes. PreRunners and 4WD Tacomas exhibit comparatively more body lean and less braking prowess, but are easily on par with class rivals.
Quietness

PreRunner Double Cab, V6 auto. X-Runner PreRunner Access Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 man. 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 auto. Class Average
4 5 4 4 4.5

Modest wind noise, but available off-road tires whine at highway speeds. V6 engine emits refined growl under acceleration, cruises quietly.
Controls

PreRunner Double Cab, V6 auto. X-Runner PreRunner Access Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 man. 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 auto. Class Average
7 7 7 7 5.9

Legible gauges, smooth-working switchgear. Audio and climate controls mounted high on central dashboard are within easy reach. Well-finished interiors use high-quality materials, yet decor on some models borders on bland or busy.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

PreRunner Double Cab, V6 auto. X-Runner PreRunner Access Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 man. 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 auto. Class Average
6 6 6 6 5.3

Fine head, leg room. All models tested had available sport seats, which are comfortable and have good bolster support for fast cornering. Shorter drivers may wish for seat-height adjustment, which isn't offered. Step-in height reasonable, even on 4WDs and PreRunners. No major blind spots.
Room/Comfort (rear)

PreRunner Double Cab, V6 auto. X-Runner PreRunner Access Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 man. 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 auto. Class Average
4 1 1 2 2.9

Access Cab has little leg room even with front seats well forward. Rear bench has low cushion, bolt-upright seatback, so even those who fit will grumble. Rear-hinged doors ease entry/exit. Double Cab offers comfortably angled seatback, adequate leg room behind tall front-seaters, entry/exit easy through fairly large doors.
Cargo Room

PreRunner Double Cab, V6 auto. X-Runner PreRunner Access Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 man. 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 auto. Class Average
4 3 3 4 4.1

Access Cab seat cushion flips forward to form level load deck, reveals covered underseat storage. Double Cab has split rear seat; backrests drop and cushions flip forward individually to make level floor and expose storage bins, covered under-seat storage. Cargo beds have four adjustable tie-down hooks along top rail, two lower hooks, and an optional 115-volt outlet.
Value within Class

PreRunner Double Cab, V6 auto. X-Runner PreRunner Access Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 man. 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 auto. Class Average
9 8 9 10 6

Tacoma leads its class in refinement, and is more than competitive in performance, accommodations, utility, and off-road prowess. Available curtain side airbags are an important safety plus for Double Cabs. This is a solid Best Buy pick.
Total Score

PreRunner Double Cab, V6 auto. X-Runner PreRunner Access Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 man. 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road susp., V6 auto. Class Average
52 52 47 49 46
Scores for all Compact Pickup Trucks

Low Score
31
Average Score
46
High Score
60
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