2019 Toyota Tacoma: The Mid-Size Truck Workhorse
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma continues its legacy as a highly capable and dependable mid-size pickup truck, renowned for its ruggedness, off-road prowess, and Toyota's legendary reliability. This generation of the Tacoma offers a compelling blend of utility and everyday drivability, making it a popular choice for both work and adventure.
Highlights
- Powertrain: The 2019 Tacoma offers two engine options. The standard 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine provides adequate power for everyday tasks and light hauling. However, the 3.5-liter V6 is the standout, delivering robust performance with 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. This V6 is paired with either a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission or, for enthusiasts, a rare-in-its-class six-speed manual transmission. The V6 also offers superior towing and hauling capabilities.
- Safety Features: Toyota equips the 2019 Tacoma with its Toyota Safety Sense™ P (TSS-P) suite as standard on all models. This comprehensive package includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD): Uses a camera and radar sensor to detect vehicles and pedestrians, providing audible and visual warnings and automatically applying the brakes if a collision is imminent.
- Lane Departure Alert (LDA): Detects lane departure without signaling and provides an audible and visual alert.
- Automatic High Beams (AHB): Automatically switches between high and low beams depending on detected light from oncoming vehicles.
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC): Maintains a pre-set speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting speed as needed.
- In addition to TSS-P, other available safety features include a Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA), which help detect vehicles in your blind spots or approaching from the sides when backing up.
- Trim Summary: The 2019 Tacoma lineup caters to a variety of needs and preferences:
- SR: The entry-level trim, offering a solid foundation of features and durability.
- SR5: Builds upon the SR with added convenience features and a slightly more refined interior.
- TRD Sport: Focuses on on-road performance and style, featuring sport-tuned suspension, unique exterior styling elements, and upgraded interior accents.
- TRD Off-Road: Designed for serious off-roading, boasting features like an electronically locking rear differential, advanced off-road suspension, multi-terrain select, and crawl control.
- Limited: The most upscale trim, offering premium comfort and convenience features, including leather-trimmed seating, a premium audio system, and advanced safety technologies.
- TRD Pro: The apex of off-road capability, with specialized FOX® Internal Bypass shocks, TRD-tuned suspension, skid plates, and a host of other rugged enhancements for extreme trail performance.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Go-Anywhere Capability: The Tacoma is renowned for its off-road prowess, especially in TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims, thanks to its robust construction, available four-wheel drive, and advanced terrain management systems.
- Durability and Reliability: Toyota's reputation for building long-lasting vehicles is a major draw for the Tacoma. It's built to withstand tough conditions and generally requires less frequent major repairs.
- Resale Value: The Tacoma consistently holds its value exceptionally well, making it a smart long-term investment.
- Accessory Ecosystem: A vast aftermarket of accessories is available for the Tacoma, allowing for extensive customization for both utility and off-road adventures.
What to Expect
Owning a 2019 Toyota Tacoma generally translates to a predictable and positive experience. You can expect a durable vehicle that performs reliably in various conditions. Maintenance is typically straightforward and affordable, with readily available parts and a wide network of service centers familiar with the model. Routine maintenance will include oil changes, tire rotations, and checking fluid levels. More significant maintenance, such as brake replacements or suspension work, will likely be less frequent compared to less robust vehicles.
Insurance costs for a Tacoma can vary based on your location, driving record, the specific trim level, and chosen coverage. However, due to its popularity and strong safety ratings, it's generally considered a reasonable vehicle to insure. Its reputation for durability might also contribute to lower comprehensive and collision premiums in some cases, as it's less prone to serious damage.
Potential Considerations
While the 2019 Tacoma excels in many areas, there are a few points buyers should be aware of:
- Ride Comfort: While improved over previous generations, the Tacoma's ride, especially in off-road-oriented trims, can still be firm and somewhat bouncy on rougher pavement, particularly when unloaded. This is a common characteristic of trucks designed for off-road capability.
- Interior Noise: Road and wind noise can be noticeable at highway speeds, especially with the all-terrain tires often found on higher trims.
- Infotainment System: While functional, the infotainment system in the 2019 model is not as cutting-edge or user-friendly as some competitors. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were not offered in this model year.
- Rear Seat Space: The rear seats in the Double Cab configuration are somewhat cramped for adult passengers on longer journeys, which is typical for the mid-size truck segment.
Overall Summary
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma stands as a testament to Toyota's engineering and commitment to building durable, capable, and reliable vehicles. It's a truck that's equally at home on the job site as it is conquering challenging trails. While its ride might not be as refined as some rivals, its legendary dependability, strong resale value, and impressive off-road credentials make it a compelling choice for anyone seeking a rugged and trustworthy mid-size pickup. The availability of the potent V6 engine and the option of a manual transmission further solidify its appeal to truck enthusiasts.