3rd Gen Tacoma: What You Need to Know

The Toyota Tacoma has long been a favorite among truck enthusiasts, and the 3rd generation model, produced from 2016-2023, is no exception.

With its rugged design and impressive capabilities, the 3rd gen Tacoma is a versatile vehicle that can handle everything from off-road adventures to daily commutes.

Mission and Adventure

For many 3rd gen Tacoma owners, the mission is to take their truck on unforgettable adventures. Whether it’s off-roading in the mountains or exploring remote areas of North America, the Tacoma is built to handle it all.

One of the reasons the Tacoma is so popular among adventure enthusiasts is its off-road capabilities. With features like crawl control, locking rear differential, and multi-terrain select, the Tacoma is designed to tackle even the toughest terrain. Plus, its sturdy construction and durable components make it a reliable choice for off-road adventures.

But it’s not just about off-roading. The Tacoma is also a great choice for exploring the great outdoors. With plenty of space for camping gear and other essentials, the Tacoma is perfect for weekend getaways or longer camping trips. And with its rugged exterior and dependable performance, you can take it just about anywhere.

Of course, every adventure is different, and the mission can vary from person to person. Some may be looking for a challenging off-road experience, while others may want to explore new parts of North America. But no matter what the mission is, the Tacoma is up for the challenge.

So whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip or a cross-country adventure, the 3rd gen Tacoma is the perfect vehicle for the mission. With its off-road capabilities, spacious interior, and dependable performance, it’s the ultimate adventure vehicle for any adventure enthusiast.

Performance and Handling

Engine and Transmission

The 3rd Gen Tacoma comes with two engine options: a 2.7L 4-cylinder engine and a 3.5L V6 engine. The 2.7L engine offers a balance of power and fuel efficiency, while the V6 provides more power for those who need it.

Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The EPA rates the 2.7L engine at 20 mpg city and 23 mpg highway, while the V6 engine gets 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.

For those who want more power, there are aftermarket options available. Cold air intakes and exhaust systems can improve engine performance and increase horsepower. Throttle body spacers can also help improve throttle response.

Suspension and Comfort

The Tacoma’s suspension is designed to provide a comfortable ride while also being capable off-road. The base SR model comes with a standard suspension system, while higher trim levels come with an upgraded suspension system. The TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro models come with a specially tuned suspension system that provides better off-road performance.

The Tacoma also comes with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control to help keep the vehicle stable on the road. The TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro models also come with a locking rear differential for improved off-road performance.

For those who want to further improve their Tacoma’s handling, there are aftermarket options available. Upgraded suspension components such as shocks, struts, and sway bars can improve handling and stability. Lift kits can also provide additional ground clearance for off-road use.

Overall, the 3rd Gen Tacoma offers a good balance of performance and handling. With aftermarket options available, it is possible to further improve the vehicle’s performance and off-road capabilities.

Trims and Generations

The Toyota Tacoma has been in production since 1995 and has gone through three generations of updates and facelifts, with the latest being the 3rd Gen Tacoma. The 3rd Gen Tacoma has been in production since 2015 and it has received several updates and facelifts since its release.

3rd Gen vs 4th Gen

The current generation of the Toyota Tacoma is the 3rd Gen, which has been in production since 2015. The 3rd Gen Tacoma is available in several trims, including the SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro. The TRD Pro is the top-of-the-line trim and comes with several off-road features, including Fox shocks, skid plates, and all-terrain tires.

The 4th Gen Tacoma has not been released yet, and there is no official word on when it will be released. However, there are rumors that the 4th Gen Tacoma will be released in 2024 and will come with several updates and new features.

Facelifts and Updates

The 3rd Gen Tacoma has received several facelifts and updates since its release in 2015. In 2020, the 3rd Gen Tacoma received a facelift that included updated front and rear bumpers, a new grille, and new LED headlights and taillights. The 2020 Tacoma also received several new features, including a new 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a new panoramic view monitor.

In 2022, the 3rd Gen Tacoma received another facelift that included updated front and rear bumpers, a new grille, and new LED headlights and taillights. The 2022 Tacoma also received several new features, including a new 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a new multi-terrain monitor.

Overall, the 3rd Gen Tacoma is a versatile and capable pickup truck that is available in several trims and comes with several off-road features. With its recent updates and facelifts, the 3rd Gen Tacoma is a great option for anyone looking for a reliable and capable pickup truck.

Off-Roading Capabilities

The 3rd Gen Toyota Tacoma is a highly capable off-road vehicle that can handle a variety of terrains and obstacles. With its rugged construction and advanced technology, the Tacoma is designed to tackle any challenge that comes its way.

One of the key features that make the Tacoma a great off-road vehicle is its high ground clearance. The truck sits high off the ground, allowing it to clear obstacles like rocks, logs, and other debris with ease. This is particularly useful when driving on rough terrain, where the ground can be uneven and unpredictable.

Another important feature of the Tacoma’s off-road capabilities is its suspension system. The truck comes equipped with a variety of suspension options, including the Old Man Emu suspension system and Fox shocks. These systems help to absorb shocks and vibrations, providing a smoother ride and better control on rough terrain.

In addition to its suspension system, the Tacoma also has a range of off-road features that make it a great choice for adventurous drivers. These include the Multi-Terrain Select system, which allows drivers to adjust the vehicle’s traction control system to match the terrain they are driving on. The Tacoma also has a rear locking differential, which helps to improve traction on slippery surfaces.

For those who want even more off-road capability, the Tacoma can be outfitted with a range of aftermarket parts and accessories. This includes everything from skid plates and rock sliders to winches and snorkels. With the right modifications, the Tacoma can be transformed into an even more capable off-road machine.

Overall, the 3rd Gen Toyota Tacoma is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a vehicle that can handle off-road adventures with ease.

Whether you’re driving on rocky trails or muddy backroads, the Tacoma’s advanced technology and rugged construction make it a reliable and capable choice. And for those who want even more off-road capability, there are plenty of aftermarket parts and accessories available to take the Tacoma to the next level.

Safety and Reliability

The 3rd generation Toyota Tacoma is a reliable and safe pickup truck that has been praised by owners and reviewers alike. Toyota, a Japanese automaker known for its high-quality vehicles, has designed the Tacoma with safety and reliability in mind.

The Tacoma comes equipped with several safety features that help keep drivers and passengers safe on the road. The vehicle stability control system helps prevent skidding and loss of control in challenging driving conditions.

Additionally, the Tacoma has traction control, which helps prevent wheels from slipping on wet or slippery roads. These features work together to help drivers maintain control of their vehicle in a variety of driving situations.

In terms of reliability, the Tacoma has a track record of being a dependable vehicle. According to a Tacoma World forum post, many owners have reported positive experiences with their 3rd gen Tacomas. The post indicates that the majority of owners have had no issues with their vehicles and that those who did experience problems had them resolved quickly by Toyota.

The Tacoma has also received high marks from industry experts. In J.D. Power’s 2021 U.S. Vehicle Dependability Study, the Tacoma was ranked as the most dependable midsize pickup truck. The study measures problems experienced by original owners of 3-year-old vehicles and ranks vehicles based on the number of problems per 100 vehicles.

Overall, the 3rd generation Tacoma is a reliable and safe pickup truck that has received praise from owners and industry experts alike. With its advanced safety features and solid track record of reliability, the Tacoma is a great choice for those in the market for a dependable and safe pickup truck.

Manual and Automatic Options

The 3rd gen Tacoma comes with both manual and automatic transmission options. The choice between the two depends on the driver’s preference and driving style. In this section, we will discuss the different manual and automatic transmission options available for the 3rd gen Tacoma.

6-Speed Options

The 6-speed manual transmission is available on the TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and TRD Pro models. The 6-speed automatic transmission is available on all models, including the SR, SR5, and Limited. The 6-speed manual transmission provides a more engaging driving experience, while the 6-speed automatic transmission offers smoother shifting and better fuel economy.

8-Speed and 4-Speed Options

The 8-speed automatic transmission is available on the V6-powered Tacoma models. It provides smoother shifting and better fuel economy than the 6-speed automatic transmission. The 4-speed automatic transmission is available on the 4-cylinder Tacoma models. It offers a basic shifting experience but provides better fuel economy than the 6-speed automatic transmission.

5-Speed Manual

The 5-speed manual transmission is available on the 4-cylinder Tacoma models. It provides a more engaging driving experience than the 4-speed automatic transmission. However, it offers less fuel economy than the automatic transmission options.

Both manual and automatic transmissions are available in rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations. The choice between the two depends on the driver’s needs and preferences. Four-wheel drive provides better traction and off-road capability, while rear-wheel drive offers better fuel economy.

Overall, the choice between manual and automatic transmission options depends on the driver’s preference and driving style. The 3rd gen Tacoma offers a variety of options to suit different needs and preferences.

Installation and Customization

When it comes to customizing a 3rd Gen Tacoma, the possibilities are endless. From suspension lifts to LED lighting, there are a variety of ways to make your Tacoma stand out from the crowd. However, it’s important to note that many of these modifications require proper installation to ensure safety and optimal performance.

One popular company for Tacoma customization is Cali Raised LED. They offer a wide range of products including LED lighting, roof racks, and bed racks. However, it’s important to follow their installation instructions carefully to avoid any mishaps during the installation process.

Aside from Cali Raised LED, there are many other companies that offer Tacoma customization options. Some popular modifications include upgrading the suspension, adding a front bumper, and installing a snorkel. It’s important to note that many of these modifications require professional installation to ensure safety and proper function.

For those who are looking to customize their Tacoma but are not comfortable with DIY installations, it’s recommended to seek out a professional installer. This will ensure that the modifications are installed correctly and safely.

Overall, customization is a great way to make your Tacoma unique and tailored to your specific needs. However, it’s important to follow installation instructions carefully and seek professional help when necessary to ensure safety and optimal performance.

To Summarize

The 3rd generation Toyota Tacoma has been a popular mid-size pickup truck since its introduction in 2016. It comes in a variety of trims, including the SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro.

The Tacoma also offers two engine options: a 2.7-liter four-cylinder and a 3.5-liter V6. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, while a six-speed manual transmission is available on certain trims.

One of the notable features of the 3rd gen Tacoma is its advanced electronic control unit (ECU). The ECU is responsible for controlling various systems in the truck, including the engine, transmission, and brakes. It also monitors the vehicle’s performance and makes adjustments to optimize fuel efficiency and power delivery.

While the 3rd gen Tacoma has been generally well-received, there have been some common issues reported by owners. These include problems with the crank position sensor, transmission shifting, and the infotainment system. However, many of these issues can be resolved through software updates or by taking the vehicle to a certified Toyota dealership for repairs.

Overall, the 3rd gen Tacoma is a reliable and capable mid-size pickup truck that offers a range of features and options to suit a variety of needs. Whether you’re looking for a work truck or an off-road adventurer, the Tacoma is a solid choice that’s worth considering.