[tundrabrad]

Thought you might enjoy this local review of the new Tacoma by the Bakersfield Californian newspaper:
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More of the same from new Toyota Tacoma -- excellence

Posted: Friday October 29th, 2004, 10:00 AM
Last Updated: Friday October 29th, 2004, 10:00 AM

By Robert Meszaros
Feature Editions Editor

Trucks don't generally excite me. Toyotas do. Their bulletproof reliability, smart designs, high build quality and outstanding resale value rank them among the very best vehicles on the road in my book.

So even though I'm not a truck guy, when I heard a new generation Toyota Tacoma was coming out, I was eager to see what Toyota had up its sleave that would make an already stellar truck even better.

For starters, the new 2005 Tacoma, which went on sale last week at Bill Wright Toyota, is larger than the outgoing model. Moving well beyond compact-truck dimensions, the new Tacoma gains nearly a half-foot in length and rides on a track that has been widened by nearly four inches, yielding a more comfortable cabin and better road manners.

Even with its larger size, the new Tacoma remains extremely maneuverable thanks to a stiffer chassis, improved suspension and better steering capabilities.

Eighteen model configurations now make up the 2005 Tacoma line, based on three cab types -- Regular Cab, extended Access Cab with new dual access doors and tumble flat rear seats, and the four-door Double Cab. The Tacoma Regular Cab and Access Cab models feature a 73.5-inch-long bed. The Double Cab is available for the first time with a choice between a 60.3-inch bed and the 73.5-inch bed.

The Tacoma line offers 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrains, plus the popular PreRunner models that combine the 4x2 drivetrain with the raised riding stance and styling of the 4x4 models.

Two more powerful engines are offered for 2005. The first is a new 2.7-liter VVT-i DOHC four-cylinder engine that produces 164 ponies and 183 lb-ft of torque. The second is a revised 4.0-liter VVT-i DOHC V6 that produces 245 horsepower and 282 lb-ft of torque (replacing the 190-hp 3.4-liter V6 in 2004 models).

Two new transmissions are offered with the V6 engine -- a six-speed manual and a five-speed automatic. Four-cylinder models get a choice between a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic.

Tacoma features a new integrated hitch and bumper design. Properly equipped, V6-powered Tacoma models can tow up to 6,500 pounds, a 30-percent increase over the 5,000-lb towing capacity of 2004 V6 models.

Toyota raised the value quotient in all Tacoma models. The well-equipped 4x2 Regular Cab model now includes as standard equipment anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake distribution (EBD) and brake assist (BA), a full-size spare tire, AM/FM CD 4-speaker sound system, tachometer, digital clock, two instrument panel powerpoints with lighter, a coolant temperature gauge, fuel warning light, dome lamp and rear mudguards. The Access Cab and Double Cab models add more standard features including bucket seats, a center console, and, in Double Cab models, upgraded seat fabric and power windows, mirrors and door locks.

Option packages have been simplified for 2005. All Tacoma option combinations are built on five packages. An Enhancement Package for the 4x2 Regular Cab adds air conditioning and styled steel wheels. The Convenience Package adds cruise control, remote keyless entry, and power windows, door locks and mirrors. The SR5 Package bundles styling and comfort features including color-keyed overfenders and front bumper, chrome grill surround and chrome rear bumper, center console (in models where it is not standard), intermittent wipers and upgraded interior features and trim. In Access Cab and Double Cab models, the SR5 package also adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter.

My test vehicle was equipped with the TRD Off-Road Package, which adds a slew of performance and convenience enhancements: sport suspension with Bilstein® shocks, 17-in. alloy wheels with P265/65R17 tires, limited-slip rear differential, 115V/400-watt deck-mounted power outlet, fog lamps, multi-function overhead console with compass and outside temperature gauge, and much more.

After testing new Tacoma for a few days this week, I reaffirmed Toyota's new offering has the goods to dominate the compact truck segment. Plain and simple, it's one of the best compact trucks ever offered.

MSPRs range from $13,415 for 2x4 Regular Cab to $25,250 for a 4x4 Double Cab models with a V6 engine, automatic transmission and a long bed. A limited production, performance-enhanced X-Runner trim is offered for $23,110.

To test drive the redesigned Toyota Tacoma, visit Bill Wright Toyota's new state-of-the-art showroom in the heart of the Bakersfield Automall.