Toyota Tacoma

Perhaps the No. 1 requirement for truck buyers is, they want their trucks to be durable and reliable. Go to any corner of the world, even third-world countries and desolate regions, and you’re guaranteed to find the Tacoma’s international cousin, the Hilux, and even the Land Cruiser, of any vintage, still moving about under its own power, no matter how beaten, weathered, or tough of a life it’s had. The same can be observed with the Tacoma throughout North America, which is one of the reasons Tacomas have crazy low depreciation.

Off-Road Adventure and Accessorization

The Tacoma is renowned for its off-road capability — having more optimal proportions for off-roading than full-size trucks. And as with the Jeep Wrangler, aftermarket modifications from owners became a multi-million-dollar industry. Hardcore off-roaders lift them and modify suspension components. Owners in California and elsewhere modify them into campers and versatile outdoor adventure vehicles. Toyota has branched out into modifying Tacomas from the factory with the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims and a new overlanding-ready Trailhunter version of the upcoming 2024 model.

There’s a Toyota Tacoma for Everyone

The Tacoma is big and capable enough to do what many truck buyers need. But it’s also less onerous than owning a full-size truck. You can fit it inside a garage, drive it through narrow streets and park it in urban environments without undue stress. That lowers the barrier for buyers who don’t need a truck but think owning one would be cool. For most of the 2010s, the Tacoma was the only truck with that distinction.