2008 Toyota Tacoma

Two specialty trucks round out the Tacoma lineup. The PreRunner is a 4x2 model with the ride height and styling of a 4x4, while the X-Runner is a performance-oriented 4x2. The latter is built around a souped-up V-6/six-speed powertrain, rolling on a lowered, tuned chassis. A full body kit, custom colors and 18-inch alloy rims round out the factory one-off package.


Many of Tacoma's arm's length list of options are bundled. New to the ranks of the available extras for 2008 is the Rugged Trail Off-Road Package. Offered only on V6 trucks, it includes model specific, 16-inch black alloy wheels, overfenders and TRD graphics. Meanwhile, the mechanical bits include a locking rear differential, specially tuned Bilstein shocks, stabilizer bar and progressive rate front springs. On-roaders can have it their way too, with the TRD Sport Package. Oriented to street driving, it features low profile 17-inch rims and tires coupled to a specially-tuned suspension and limited slip diff. Cosmetics on the TRD street package include a hood scoop, fog lamps, graphics, color keyed rear bumper, mirrors, grille surround and door handles. Both TRD packages add a 115-volt power outlet in the bed, sport seats and an overhead console. Running boards are also available. Done right, boards provide a welcome step up on a tall-ish truck, especially for shorter folks. Unfortunately, Toyota's boards are too narrow to fit a foot of any appreciable size, and they're positioned too high—at the same level as the cab—so you have to step over them to get in and out. Best to spend the $400 elsewhere on the option sheet.

Driving Impression & Interior

Most of our test drive time was spent in a V6, Double Cab, short-box 4x4. The full, four-door model offers the most cabin space of any Tacoma. For those over six feet and with the front seats set just right, like-size folks could just fit in back. There's a good amount of storage space on the inside, and Toyota has happily kept the switchgear in the keep-it-simple, truck tradition. Controls for most everything are easy to find and use, from the HVAC rheostats to the stalks for wipers and lights.


Regardless of size, all boxes are notched for two-tier loading. Four tie-down cleats are included on the standard deck rail, and a number of compatible accessories are available, like a fork-mount bike rack, cargo bed cross bars and diamond plate storage boxes.


Tacoma's success in the marketplace comes as no surprise. The midsize pickup is well executed, and offered in a range of styles and options that should suit nearly any buyer. It will be interesting to see what effect the new Tundra will have on Tacoma sales. Tundra MSRPs range from $22,290 to $42,070, while a well-dressed Tacoma like our Double Cab 4x4 tester stickers for $31,000. With that kind of overlap, prospective buyers will have to decide whether they prefer a little less truck with more options, or a larger truck with fewer extras. But, given the size of the full-size truck market, if Tundra gained at the expense of Tacoma, we think Toyota would be okay with that. (www.toyota.com)