2008 Toyota Tacoma: Road Test
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2008 Toyota Tacoma ▼
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- MSRP: $14,280 -$26,115
- Invoice: $13,233 -$23,670
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Our road test for the 2008 Toyota Tacoma includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Toyota Tacoma from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Toyota Tacoma, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Toyota Tacoma help you decide if a 2008 Toyota Tacoma is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| PreRunner Double Cab, V6 automatic | X-Runner | PreRunner Access Cab V6, manual | 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 7 | 6 | 5 | 4.9 |
No regular-cab or 4-cylinder models have been made available for us to test. V6 versions feel strong in most situations. A 2WD PreRunner Access Cab with manual transmission did 7.9 seconds 0-60 mph in our test. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and downshifts quickly for passing.
FUEL ECONOMY
| PreRunner Double Cab, V6 automatic | X-Runner | PreRunner Access Cab V6, manual | 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 3.5 |
In Consumer Guide testing, our Extended-Use automatic-transmission 4WD Double Cab averaged 16.6 mpg over 3686 miles. Four-cylinder Tacomas use regular-grade gas. Toyota recommends premium for V6 models.
RIDE QUALITY
| PreRunner Double Cab, V6 automatic | X-Runner | PreRunner Access Cab V6, manual | 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 4.6 |
Most models are fairly controlled and comfortable for compact pickups, but the optional TRD Off-Road suspension makes the ride bouncy and stiff. X-Runner's sport suspension and low-profile tires annoy less, but try before you buy.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| PreRunner Double Cab, V6 automatic | X-Runner | PreRunner Access Cab V6, manual | 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road suspension | 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 they are easily on par with class rivals.
QUIETNESS
| PreRunner Double Cab, V6 automatic | X-Runner | PreRunner Access Cab V6, manual | 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 4.5 |
Modest wind noise, but available off-road tires whine at highway speeds. The V6 emits a refined growl under acceleration and cruises quietly.
CONTROLS
| PreRunner Double Cab, V6 automatic | X-Runner | PreRunner Access Cab V6, manual | 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.9 |
Legible gauges with smooth-working switchgear. Audio and climate controls are mounted high on the central dashboard, yet are within easy reach.
DETAILS
| PreRunner Double Cab, V6 automatic | X-Runner | PreRunner Access Cab V6, manual | 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 4.7 |
Tacoma's interior is well finished, with high-quality materials. The overall atmosphere on some versions, however, borders on bland or busy.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| PreRunner Double Cab, V6 automatic | X-Runner | PreRunner Access Cab V6, manual | 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.6 |
Fine headroom and legroom. 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 is reasonable, even on 4WDs and PreRunners. No major blind spots.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| PreRunner Double Cab, V6 automatic | X-Runner | PreRunner Access Cab V6, manual | 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 2.8 |
Access Cab has very little room even with the front seats well forward. The rear bench has a low cushion and bolt-upright seatback, so even those who fit will grumble. Rear-hinged doors ease entry and exit. Double Cabs offer a comfortably angled seatback, adequate legroom behind tall front-seat passengers, and easy entry and exit through fairly large doors.
CARGO ROOM
| PreRunner Double Cab, V6 automatic | X-Runner | PreRunner Access Cab V6, manual | 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 3.6 |
Access Cab's seat cushion flips forward to form a level load deck and reveals covered underseat storage. Double Cabs have a split rear seat; the backrests drop and cushions flip forward individually to make a level floor and expose storage bins, as well as covered under-seat storage. Cargo beds have four adjustable tie-down hooks along the top rail, two lower hooks, and an optional 115-volt outlet.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| PreRunner Double Cab, V6 automatic | X-Runner | PreRunner Access Cab V6, manual | 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 7 | 9 | 10 | 5.8 |
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 automatic | X-Runner | PreRunner Access Cab V6, manual | 4WD Double Cab w/Off-Road suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 58 | 57 | 53 | 57 | 49.8 |
Total Score: 56
Scores for all Compact Pickup Trucks
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