With a history as rich as its cult-like following, the Toyota Tacoma has become one of the most popular pickup trucks in the world. With over 20 years of production, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from if you’re looking for the perfect Toyota Tacoma for sale.
A Transformation From Humble Beginnings: The Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma is one of the most iconic pickup trucks on the road. This long-standing pickup has been around for over 20 years and has morphed into a symbol of power, performance, and absolute reliability.
With the power of a Toyota engine under the hood, it’s no surprise why. Let’s take a trip down memory lane to see how the Toyota Tacoma has grown over the past two decades.
First Generation – Toyota Hilux (1969 – 1972)
Toyota debuted its Helix as a way to replace its previous pickup the Stout. The first-generation models were available with a short wheelbase, and a modest 1.9 L engine. This engine delivered an equally modest 84 horsepower and was offered only in a rear-wheel drive configuration. A 4-speed manual transmission came standard, during the time when automatic was a luxury. If you’re lucky enough to find a first-generation Toyota Hilux today, you’ll be met with that classic look that original Toyota pickups were known for.
Second Generation – Toyota Hilux (1973 – 1974)
Toyota’s second generation of the Helix offered a much longer 7.4-foot truck bed. This elongated body gave the Toyota Hilux a more robust and someone commanding look. Under the hood, second-gen models were equipped with slightly bigger 2.0 L engines that delivered a respectable 109 horsepower. The 4-speed manual transmission came standard on all U.S. models while Japanese drivers could enjoy the 3-speed automatic transmission. As the Toyota Hilux continued on its transformation, marketing material at the time began to drop the name “Hilux” and began to use the term “Truck” instead.
Third Generation – Toyota Truck (1975- 1978)
The third generation pushed the pickup to morph again into the classic Toyota truck. The third-gen touted a slightly newer design that was larger than previous years. A more powerful 2.2 L engine delivered 97 horsepower and was paired with the available 5-speed manual transmission. With third-generation models, drivers had the option to upgrade to the Upscale Trim Package, the SR5. In 1997, Toyota also hit its landmark milestone of producing 1 million trucks in the US. This was the same time that Toyota billed itself as a competitive truck maker in U.S. markets.
Fourth Generation – Toyota Truck (1979- 1983)
The fourth generation saw the introduction of the 4-wheel drive Toyota Truck. The L Series diesel engine debuted during this generation on two-wheel-drive models as well. The Toyota truck also underwent a design enhancement for better performance. Updated suspension, a stronger front axle, rounder headlights, and an overall rugged look defined the latest models during these years. Under the hood, drivers could look forward to a 2.0 L engine and a 2.4 L engine.
Fifth Generation – Toyota Truck (1984 – 1988)
The years of the fifth generation were a time of innovation for the truck maker. The Toyota Truck saw the introduction of the Xtracab, a two-row extended cab option. These models were equipped with the all-new fuel injector 2.4 L engine that put out 104 horsepower. Toyota also offered two diesel engines, the 2.4 L and the turbocharged 2.4 L engine. The fifth generation was also the final year of the 4-speed standard manual transmission. Taking its place was 3 and 4-speed automatic transmission.
Sixth Generation – Toyota Truck (1989 – 1994)
The Toyota truck continues to see design enhancements with this generation introducing a longer wheelbase. To compete with the likes of Nissan this generation introduced the more powerful 3.0 L V6 engine as well. This boost in power helped push the Xtracab SR5 model to claim the title of Truck of the Year by Motor Trend as well. During these years, the Toyota Truck would go on to claim other accolades for its design, performance, and tech integration.
First Generation – Toyota Tacoma (1995 – 2004)
The success of the Toyota Truck evolved into the first generation of the Toyota Tacoma. This became the truck’s iconic journey into one of the most sought-after trucks on the market. The Toyota Tacoma lineup was announced and drivers could enjoy new variations including the PreRunner Xtracab and Xtracab TRD. Throughout this generation, the Tacoma offered newer upgrade packages, daytime running lights, vehicle stability control, and other performance and handling enhancements.
Second Generation – Toyota Tacoma (2005 – Present Day)
As the second generation of the Toyota Tacoma continued to build on itself, the Tacoma was outfitted with some of the most modern styling, comfort, safety, and tech integration available.
Scooping up a number of awards and accolades along the way, the Toyota Tacoma as we know it has become one of the most sought-after pickups on the market. This generation introduced the 4 L engine with a 6-speed manual transmission and added a slew of features and optional packages for drivers to enjoy.
In 2009, the Toyota Tacoma Incorporated industry-standard safety features which allowed the truck to enjoy the IIHS’s top safety pick rating. Front seat-mounted side airbags, curtain side airbags, and a standard Star Safety System were just some of the safety features drivers could look forward to.
In 2012, the Tacoma saw a redesign allowing it just tout an aggressive and beefy look while 2015 saw the introduction of the TRD Pro Series Tacoma. Today, the automaker continues to innovate and deliver on all aspects including Tech, Comfort, safety, and performance. Production of the Tacoma also grew and drivers continuously sought out what was to become one of the nation’s most beloved pickups.
Find Your Perfect Toyota Tacoma
This brief look into Toyota‘s history unveils the many different variations, models, and package options drivers can now enjoy and how they came to be. As you shop for your next Toyota Tacoma for sale, consider Toyota’s rich history and how it has helped shape the future of one of the nation’s most beloved pickups.
