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2025 Ford Bronco Sport Review2023 Toyota Tacoma: Aging Well
Does the 2023 Toyota Tacoma continue the tradition that started in 1995? We look at powertrain, trim levels, and more. Find out our thoughts here.
2023 Toyota Tacoma – toyota.com | Shop 2023 Toyota Tacoma on Carsforsale.com
What’s New for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma?
On sale since 1995, a history we cover here, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma midsize pickup truck continues to offer loads of capability and a well-earned reputation for reliability. The third-generation model was introduced in 2015, so we’re getting long in the tooth however, Toyota continues to add content as always.
Compared to the 2022 Tacoma, the 2023 Tacoma is improved with a new blacked-out SX or shiny Chrome package on the V-6 powered SR5 grade trucks, and Toyota’s Smart Key system is now standard on V6-powered SR5 models. Those who like to be seen will appreciate the new ocular-searing Solar Octane paint job available on TRD Pro Tacos.
The Breakdown
Bulletproof reputation
Plenty of standard driver aids
Manual transmission
Weak base motor
Getting old
Unimpressive safety ratings
Dependable as ever
2023 Tacoma Specs
- 159 horsepower from base engine
- 180 lb-ft of torque from base engine
- 7 available trims
- 6,800-lb max is plenty for weekend fun
- Cargo capacity: 5- or 6-foot bed
- Multi-Terrain Monitor helps with off-roading
- Four standard driver aids
- Two years of complimentary maintenance
2023 Toyota Tacoma Powertrain
Toyota has made it clear they’re in no big rush to electrify their lineup, as we look at here, and that is evident when looking over the two legacy engines available with the 2023 Tacoma. SR and SR5 grades come with a naturally aspirated 2.7L inline-4 making a wheezy 159 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque that mates with a 6-speed automatic to spin the rear wheels.
For an extra $2,500, you can step up to a 3.5L V6 rated for 278 horses and 265 torques, or buy one of the other five trim levels that come standard with this engine. It works with the same automatic transmission, though a 6-speed manual can be had with the V6 on TRD-branded models.
Four-wheel-drive is a $3,000 add-on that comes standard on the TRD Pro model. It works with an electronically-controlled dual-range transfer case and limited-slip differential. All 2023 Toyota Tacomas are fitted with a double-wishbone front suspension and leaf-sprung rear, which aids in utility but is not going to offer a cushy ride. Of course, this is a pickup truck, one that sits on 9.4-inches of ground clearance, and it is designed for capability over comfort.
If your needs lean to rough-road work, the Trail Special Edition and TRD Pro models both feature a lifted suspension and all-terrain tires. However, it is the TRD Pro that will get you further with its beefy front skid plate, internal bypass dampers from Fox, strengthened suspension components, Crawl Control, and Multi-Terrain Select with five driving modes to choose from.
Towing & Payload
The base 2023 Toyota Tacoma can tow 3,500 pounds so be sure to add the towing package if you need more capacity. It includes coolers for the engine oil, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid, along with a beefed-up alternator and Trailer Sway Control. All of which allows for 6,800 pounds of towing when paired with four-wheel-drive. Max payload capacity is 1,685 pounds for 2.7L-equipped models, a figure that drops as low as 1,155 for V6-powered models.
2023 Toyota Tacoma Fuel Economy & MPG
A RWD 2023 Tacoma with the four-cylinder is rated for 20 mpg in city driving and 23 on the highway. Adding 4WD brings each of these figures down by one. The V6 is thirstier with RWD models rated for 19/24 mpg in city/highway driving or 18/22 mpg when equipped with 4WD. Adding the manual transmission means more visits to the gas station with a 17-mpg rating in the city and just 20 on the highway.
Interior, Comfort, & Cargo Space
A 2023 Tacoma can be ordered with the Access Cab that features half-sized rear doors and small rear seats or the full four-door Double Cab that bumps occupancy from four to five passengers. However, if you’re looking at a midsize pickup for its passenger space, look elsewhere. The Tacoma has 25 inches of rear legroom with the access cab or 33 with the double cab. Ford’s Ranger is rated for 30 and 35 inches in this metric, for their comparable cab options.
If, on the other hand, cargo and hauling are what you’re after, the 2023 Tacoma comes through with its fiber-reinforced sheet-molded composite bed in 5- or 6-foot lengths. A damped tailgate, two-tier loading ability, and integrated deck rail system with four tie-down cleats are all standard fare.
As for creature comforts, dual-zone automatic climate control is included on all V6-powered models and leather upholstery with heated front seats can be found on upper-level trims. Though no one will mistake the Tacoma for a luxury cruiser, it does offer niceties like a sunroof, power-sliding rear window, and power-adjustable driver’s seat.
Entertainment & Technology
A 7-inch infotainment touchscreen comes on the base SR Tacoma with every other model receiving an 8-inch version. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard as is a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot, and three USB ports. From the TRD Sport on up, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and wireless phone charger are included.
The pricey TRD Pro is fairly loaded with built-in navigation, a JBL Audio stereo system, and app-based remote vehicle connectivity. Or you can select one of the many packages, like the TRD Off-Road Premium bundle, that brings all those features plus the Multi-Terrain Monitor and rear parking sonar.
Safety Features
While the 2023 Tacoma only earns a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA, it does come with advanced driver-aids including a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and automatic high beams. A blind spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert are widely available with a package, as are rear parking sensors and a panoramic view monitor.
2023 Toyota Tacoma Trims & Pricing
SR – $28,585
Base Tacoma SR grade comes with 16-inch steelies, sliding rear glass, cloth seating, and power windows. A 7-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is included as is Wi-Fi capability, and three USB ports.
SR5 – $30,375
SR5 trim includes Toyota’s Smart Key system for ease of access and engine start as well as a leather-wrapped steering wheel and 8-inch touchscreen display.
TRD Sport – $35,495
Oriented for urban driving, the TRD Sport adds 17-inch alloy wheels, a leather-wrapped shift knob, and wireless phone charging pad.
TRD Off-Road – $36,775
As its name implies, TRD Off-Road trim is ready to get dirty with all-terrain tires, an inclinometer display in the gauge cluster, and the option to add the Multi-Terrain Monitor.
Limited – $41,340
With polished 18-inch rims, the choice of black or brown leather upholstery, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat, Limited models are the poshest of Tacomas.
Trail Special Edition – $41,805
Sweet bronze accents, a mild suspension lift, and TRD front skid plate add capability and visual zest to the Trail Special Edition that also sports insulated bins integrated into the cargo bed.
TRD Pro – $48,020
The Tacoma TRD Pro is a serious off-roader with special Fox dampers, 1 ½-inch lift, 4WD-only drivetrain, and meaty rubber. It also has heated side mirrors, a moonroof, and the full complement of Toyota vehicle connectivity. All of which ratchets up the cost so don’t miss our latest new vehicle incentives article.
Warranties
Toyota’s 3-year/36,000-mile term basic vehicle warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty is industry average. Fortunately, they also include two years or 25,000 miles of complimentary maintenance. And given the strong resale value of the Tacoma, this perk makes it worth considering a new Tacoma over a used model.
What we think
2023 Toyota Tacoma – toyota.com | Shop 2023 Toyota Tacoma on Carsforsale.com
The 2023 Toyota Tacoma may be getting long in the tooth and seem dated in comparison to shinier new options like a Honda Ridgeline. That being said, thanks to perennially high resale values, strong reliability, and the ability to do all the traditional pickup duties well, the Tacoma is worth looking at. Skip the wimpy four-cylinder and go for the V6 with a manual transmission in TRD Off-Road form to enjoy amenities like wireless charging and the 8-inch infotainment display.
