The midsize Toyota Tacoma is the best-selling pickup truck in its segment, and is equipped with some of the most sophisticated dynamic control technology in its class.

The Tacoma offers four-cylinder and V6 engines, 4×2 and 4×4 drive trains, and the popular PreRunner models that combine the 4×2 drive train with the 4×4's raised riding stance and styling.

Leading the Tacoma line in performance and style, the unique X-Runner model blends concept-truck design with sports car performance from a 236-horsepower V6 engine and a specially tuned chassis. The Tacoma line offers 18 different model configurations based on three cab types: Regular Cab, Access Cab, and the four-door Double Cab. The Tacoma Regular Cab and Access Cab models feature a 73.5-inch-long bed. The Double Cab is available with a choice of a 60.3-inch bed or the 73.5-inch bed.

Tacoma Regular Cab 4×2 models are built on a 109.4-inch wheelbase; PreRunner and 4×4 Regular Cab Tacomas are built on a 110-inch wheelbase; 4×2 Access Cab models ride on a 127.2-inch wheelbase, and Access Cab PreRunner and 4×4 wheelbase is 127.8-inches.

Standard five-foot bed

The Tacoma Double Cab with the standard five-foot bed shares the 127.8-inch wheelbase, and the Double Cab long-bed models use a 140.9-inch wheelbase.

The Tacoma line offers a choice between two engines: a 2.7-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine that produces 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft. of torque and a 4.0-liter DOHC V6 that produces 236 horsepower and 266 lb-ft. of torque. In both engines variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i) helps provide strong low-end and mid-range torque.

An Electronic Throttle Control System with intelligence (ETCS-i) helps optimize performance and fuel economy. The V6 engine can be teamed with either a six-speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission. The four-cylinder models offer a choice between a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic transmission.

With its big, bold headlights and grille, Tacoma projects a strong, rugged appearance. Flush rear surface glass and flush surface structures between the bumper sides and body give Tacoma a sophisticated, clean look.

PreRunner and 4×4 models are distinguished by bold over-fenders. Tacoma features an integrated trailer hitch and bumper design. Properly equipped, the V6-powered Tacoma models can tow up to 6,500 pounds. Double Cab models offer a first-in-class roof rack system with crossbars that deploy from the roof rails.

The Tacoma's composite inner bed is made from a sheet-molded compound (SMC) deck and walls that are 10 percent lighter than steel, yet tough and durable. The bed deck features two-tier loading and integrated deck rail utility that includes four standard adjustable tie-down cleats. The rails are compatible with Genuine Toyota Accessories, including cargo bed cross bars, a fork-mount bike rack, and diamond-plate storage boxes.

An available 115V/400W powerpoint further extends the bed's utility.

Dual rear access doors on the Tacoma Access Cab models open to 80 degrees to give passengers easy ingress and egress. Interior storage has been maximized in Access Cab models with tumble-flat rear seats and underseat storage. Double Cab models feature additional storage behind the rear seatback. On all models with front bucket seats (except the sport seats), the front passenger seat folds flat and integrates into a tray table.

A performance truck factory-developed as a separate and dedicated model, the X-Runner showcases the Tacoma line's 236-horsepower 4.0-liter V6 engine in a specially lowered and tuned chassis. The X-Runner name is derived from its “X-Brace” frame reinforcement that provides enhanced torsional rigidity.

Available exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission and also equipped with a limited-slip rear differential, the X-Runner can accelerate from zero-to-60 MPH in less than seven seconds. Just as impressive, X-Runner can achieve lateral acceleration in excess of 0.9-g — comparable with many sports cars.

The X-Runner's Access Cab design incorporates full body kit, a hood scoop and integrated fog lamps. The color-keyed monochromatic exterior comes in three colors — Radiant Red, Black Sand and Speedway Blue.

The X-Runner suspension is lowered one inch versus the standard Tacoma and rolls on 18-inch alloy wheels with 255/45R18 Bridgestone Potenza performance tires.

Exclusive X-Runner suspension incorporates firmer and shorter springs, specially tuned Bilstein gas shock absorbers positioned outboard of the frame rails for increased stability, a rear stabilizer bar with firmer bushings, and specially tuned steering response.

Tacoma offers some of the most sophisticated dynamic control technology in the segment. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA) are standard on all models, and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) is available for all models. EBD optimizes brake pressure at each wheel independently for greater control under braking, especially when cornering.

Off-road traction enhancement

Brake Assist is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking. If the driver has not pressed firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage the ABS, the system supplements the applied braking power until pedal pressure is released. The optional VSC system, which integrates traction control (TRAC), enhances traction on or off-road by helping to keep the vehicle going on its intended course. VSC detects front-wheel slide and rear-wheel slide during cornering and attempts to control either condition with throttle intervention and/or by braking individual wheels.

On some Tacoma models, the VSC and TRAC systems also includes Automatic Limited-slip Differential (Auto-LSD), which uses brake intervention in place of a mechanical-type LSD unit to help reduce tire slippage at the rear wheels. (The TRD Off-Road Package uses a locking rear differential, and the TRD Sport Package is equipped with a mechanical limited-slip rear differential.)

On automatic transmission models, the VSC and TRAC option includes Hill-start Assist Control (HAC). By independently controlling the brakes at each wheel as needed, HAC helps to prevent the vehicle from rolling backward or slipping sideways during a transition from a stopped position to climbing a grade. When VSC is ordered along with the TRD Off-Road Package on 4×4 V6 automatic models, it includes HAC and Downhill Assist Control (DAC).

Regulates downhill speed

DAC uses engine braking to regulate downhill speed and independently control the brakes at each of the four wheels to help improve directional stability. DAC also works in reverse and is automatically de-activated if the driver depresses the brake or accelerator pedals, presses the DAC button, or shifts into neutral.

All seating positions on every Tacoma model are equipped with three-point seatbelts, and all Tacoma models are equipped with the advanced dual-stage airbag system. A front passenger cutoff switch is standard on Access Cab models. Double Cab models offer optional front seat side airbags and roll-sensing side curtain airbags (including a cutoff switch).

The Tacoma interior provides durability and comfort with high-grade fabric and generous standard equipment. Sound absorption material in the headliner and behind the rear seats and insulating carpeting help to provide a quiet cabin. Exterior aerodynamic details help reduce wind noise.

Toyota offers a variety of performance parts and option packages for the Tacoma. The TRD Off-Road Package provides a carefully tuned balance of off-road performance and on-road handling. Chassis modifications include a locking rear differential, progressive-rate front springs, specially tuned Bilstein shock absorbers, a 28-mm front stabilizer bar and 265/70R16 BF Goodrich Rugged Trail tires on 16-inch alloy wheels. Fog lamps and TRD graphics top off the package for a tough, sporty appearance.

The Rugged Trail Off-Road Package is new for the Tacoma's 2008 model year and is available only on V6 models with black, white or silver exterior paint colors. Similar to the TRD Off-Road Package it includes locking rear differential, progressive-rate front springs, specially tuned Bilstein shock absorbers, stabilizer bar and TRD graphics.

The TRD Sport Package is road-focused and features its own specific suspension tuning, a limited-slip rear differential and lower-profile 265/65R17 tires on 17-inch alloy wheels. This package also gives Tacoma a sporty street look with fog lamps, a hood scoop, TRD graphics and a color-keyed rear bumper, mirrors, grille surround and door handles.

Both TRD option packages include a 400W/115V powerpoint in the bed, sport seats with adjustable lumbar support and unique fabric, plus an overhead console with a compass and outside temperature display. Double Cabs with the long-bed and the TRD Sport Package also include an available electrochromic auto-dimming rear-view mirror.

The available dealer-installed TRD Big Brake system was developed by Toyota Technical Center and TRD engineers. Engineered to provide effective braking performance under sustained heavy use, the Big Brake system dramatically improves pedal feel and substantially reduces brake fade from repeated high-speed stops.

The well-equipped 4×2 Regular Cab model includes as standard equipment anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA); a full-size spare tire; AM/FM CD 4-speaker sound system; tachometer; digital clock; two instrument panel powerpoints with a lighter; dome lamp, and rear mudguards.