For the 2009 model year, Toyota has taken the well-proven and much acclaimed Tacoma truck and made it even better by adding several new features.
Standard equipment on all Tacoma models will now include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) as well as Traction Control (TRAC). This adds the Tacoma to the list of Toyota models sporting Toyota's STAR Safety system, which includes Anti-Lock Brakes, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Brake Assist, VSC, and TRAC.
Also being added as new standard features are an automatic limited slip differential, roll-sensing curtain and seat side airbags, and front active headrests. Toyota has always been among the industry leaders when it comes to safety, so it's really no surprise to see these features added as standard.
The exterior design of the Tacoma has also been refreshed. There's now an argent painted grille, LED tail-lamps and four new colors (Magnetic Gray, Barcelona Red, Pyrite, and Timberland). And on the X-Runner, Smoked headlamp trim is now featured on models with the optional TRD Offroad and TRD Sport packages.
On the interior, the Tacoma gets a new and enhanced audio system as standard equipment. It includes AM/FM radio, an auxiliary audio input, an MP3-capable CD player, and satellite radio capability. The standard audio has also been upgraded on the Access Cab and Double Cab models to include two ceiling mounted speakers (now six total) as well as being satellite radio ready.
And as an option on the Tacoma Double Cab, a JBL six-disc CD changer with satellite radio and a three-month free subscription to XM Satellite Radio and Bluetooth is available.
New interior features for 2009 also include a new front door trim panel on all models. Tacoma Access Cabs also get power windows and door locks as standard equipment as well as a new rear seat design featuring additional storage.
There's also a stylish new seat fabric pattern for SR5 package models and a new backup monitor that's optional on the Access and Double Cab models.
But even with these enhancements, the 2009 Toyota Tacoma can be considered largely unchanged. Its various configurations, performance capabilities and dependabile reputation are already well established.
This compact pickup truck is offered in three cab styles, including regular cab, extended Access Cab with rear-hinged rear doors, and the Double Cab with four conventional side doors. Regular cabs are offered with either bucket seats or a three-passenger bench seat. The other models seat five passengers with front bucket seats and a rear bench seat for three.
The Regular and Access Cab models are equipped with a 6-foot-long cargo bed. The Double Cab gets 5 or 6 foot beds. All come with plastic liners.
There are two engines offered with the Tacoma. There's a 159 horsepower 2.7 liter 4-cylinder engine coupled with either a 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic. There's also a more athletic 236 horsepower 4.0-liter V6 engine matched with either a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission.
The maximum towing capacity is 6500 lbs. The Tacoma comes with either rear-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive (not be used on dry pavement) that includes a low-range gear for off-roading. Locking rear differential and hill ascent and descent control are also available for off-roading.
The 2WD PreRunner has a raised suspension and several other design elements of the 4WD. And the sporty X-Runner is a V6 Access Cab with a manual transmission, aero lower body trim, and a sport suspension.
When it comes to driving performance, the Tacoma is noted for its controlled and comfortable ride, given that it's a compact pickup truck. It should also be noted, however, that the optional TRD Off-Road suspension does makes the ride somewhat bouncy and stiff, so there is some tradeoff for the additional ability. This is less of an issue with the X-Runner's sport suspension and low-profile tires.
Actually, the X-Runner has very impressive moves for a truck, with little body lean in the corners and strong brakes. You can expect a bit more body lean and less braking prowess in the PreRunners and 4WD Tacomas, but they're pretty much on par with other trucks in their class.
There's also very good headroom and legroom in the Tacoma, and excellent visibility.
Overall, the Tacoma is a class leader in refinement and is also among the leaders in terms of performance, comfort, functionality, and off-road capability. And the X-Runner handles more like a sports car while sacrificing little utility.
Update: Weak Economy Leads To Lower Tacoma Prices:
Toyota's sales have been on the weak side historically for close to the past two years now, right along with the other car brands and evidence of a continuing slow economy.
They've recently made some progress in offsetting at least some of the market weakness through strong incentives and easier-to-get discounts. The bottom line? Car dealers will "wheel and deal" bigtime right now if you know how to push their buttons.
How To Buy A New Tacoma At The Best Price: Before listing MSRP and invoice prices for the 2009 Toyota Tacoma, the best way to get the lowest price, especially given the current slow car market.
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