For those who enjoy off-roading, the 2022 Toyota Tacoma is a popular choice, especially in its off-road TRD variants. The Tacoma is a mid-size pickup truck that competes with the Nissan Frontier, Ford Ranger, and Jeep Gladiator. Although the Tacoma is the top-selling mid-size truck in the U.S., it is not superior in any specific category. It is known for being a reliable all-rounder, particularly valued in its off-road versions. The updates for the 2022 model year focus on enhancing the Tacoma’s off-road capabilities. The TRD Pro model now features a lifted suspension, while the SR5’s Trail Edition package also receives a slight suspension lift.
The 2022 Toyota Tacoma is renowned for its durability, which is reflected in its rugged truck design. While it adheres to the traditional pickup truck structure, the 2022 model stands out with its muscular lines and unique details, especially in the TRD Pro trim.
The Toyota Tacoma can traverse a variety of terrains, albeit not at high speeds. Some trim levels are available with rear-wheel drive, suitable for city driving. The base 4-cylinder engine produces 159 horsepower, primarily suited for urban use. The more common 3.5-liter V-6 engine, found in most Tacomas, delivers 278 horsepower but performs better at higher RPMs, requiring more effort. The 6-speed automatic transmission is inclined to shift into higher gears quickly to conserve fuel, making the manual 6-speed transmission preferable for non-commuting drives.
In terms of ride quality, non-TRD Tacomas offer a relatively smooth experience, thanks to their large tires that absorb minor bumps well. On the other hand, TRD Pro models provide a firmer ride on roads but handle rough terrain effortlessly with their advanced shocks.
The Toyota Tacoma boasts decent handling and responsive steering. While it may not excel in cornering, it handles winding roads better than some competitors. The truck maintains stability on highways, and its standard adaptive cruise control is commendable. Braking performance is good, though the pedal feel could be improved.
The TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro models excel off-road, equipped with a standard locking rear differential and multiple traction control modes for enhanced maneuverability in challenging conditions.
The Toyota Tacoma is not fuel-efficient, with rear-wheel drive 4-cylinder models achieving around 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. Adding four-wheel drive reduces these figures due to the increased effort required by the engine. V-6 models offer slightly better fuel efficiency, with rear-wheel drive models averaging 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. The Tacoma’s safety features include standard automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, and adaptive cruise control, with room for improvement in crash-test ratings.
Inside, the 2022 Toyota Tacoma features a user-friendly layout with a variety of buttons and switches. TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro models have additional controls for off-road settings, located on the headliner.
The 2022 Toyota Tacoma excels in cargo capacity over passenger comfort. Available in extended- and crew-cab configurations with 5- or 6-foot beds, the Tacoma offers versatility in its lineup. The truck’s interior materials are visually appealing, though some may find them less tactile. Overall, the Tacoma lineup caters to different needs, offering good value for its class and impressive resale value.
When considering which Tacoma to purchase, opting for a V-6 model is recommended over the base 4-cylinder variant. The SR5 trim level provides additional features like a power-adjustable driver’s seat and enhanced aesthetics. The TRD Off-Road model with a 6-speed manual transmission stands out for enthusiasts. However, the Limited trim level, while not luxurious, offers a more upscale experience at a higher price point. The 2022 Toyota Tacoma remains a dependable choice, providing strong performance and versatility in various configurations.
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