2019 Toyota Tacoma Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

For years, the Toyota Tacoma has rewarded truck enthusiasts with a great deal of versatility. Although the 2019 Toyota Tacoma faces an uphill battle against some competitors, it still deserves a serious look. Drivers enjoy the Tacoma’s long-term reliability and legendary off-road prowess. An inspiring list of standard safety features makes this midsize pickup an even more satisfying choice. Does the new Tacoma deserve your hard-earned cash?

What’s New for 2019?

The 2019 Toyota Tacoma didn’t receive any major updates. However, TRD models offer a new Desert Air Intake. When traveling in dusty environments, this rugged feature helps feed clean air into the engine.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2019 Toyota Tacoma – The Pros

1. Extremely Reliable Truck

Toyota has a longstanding reputation for producing rock-solid vehicles. If you’re looking for a pickup truck that can last for more than 300,000 miles, the 2019 Toyota Tacoma won’t leave you disappointed. No other truck in the class boasts a higher predicted reliability rating. Every part on the Tacoma is engineered to withstand the test of time. When driving the new Tacoma, you won’t have to worry about experiencing a sudden breakdown.

2. Base Tacoma SR Doesn’t Break the Bank

If the upper Tacoma trims are a bit out of your price range, consider the base Tacoma SR. You can expect to shell out around $25,000. This is a good price for a dependable truck that’s cheap to maintain. Although the base Tacoma doesn’t have a glamorous appearance, it contains enough features to please the average driver. Some of the standard tech includes a backup camera, and touch-screen infotainment system, and several advanced driving aids.

3. Good for Hauling and Towing

Although the 2019 Toyota Tacoma may not be as strong as a full-size truck, it’s still quite capable. While four-cylinder models can pull up to 3,500 pounds, the V6-powered Tacoma can tow 6,800 pounds. This is perfect for the drivers who need to transport a boat or a pair of ATVs. Towing accessories, such as a heavy-duty transmission cooler, enhance the Tacoma’s durability. You can also easily pile a 1,500-pound load on its bed.

4. V6 Engine Packs Power

While a four-cylinder engine is available, a lot of drivers will prefer the Tacoma’s V6. It’s rated to push out nearly 280 horsepower. When hauling loads and climbing steep hills, the extra muscle will be greatly appreciated. Furthermore, only the V6-powered Tacoma can be paired with a manual transmission. You won’t even be spending much more money on fuel. Models equipped with a V6 can return up 24 mpg, which is actually better than the four-cylinder Tacoma.

5. Very Tough and Rugged

If you intend to take your adventure off the street, the 2019 Toyota Tacoma will get the job done. It’s among the toughest pickups in the segment. A capable 4WD system enables you to charge through mud. Available off-road traction control also helps you to safely topple rough terrain. For the drivers who need an extra layer of toughness, Toyota offers the TRD Pro model. Exclusive Fox shocks give the Tacoma TRD Pro the maximum ground clearance.

6. Some Models Have a Bold Look

The base 2019 Toyota Tacoma may not catch your eye. However, the other trims look quite stylish. Models fitted with a hood scoop have an especially sporty character. Meanwhile, available LED headlamps with black bezels give the Tacoma a custom appearance. A retro grille is found on the TRD Pro model. Some of the hottest Tacoma colors include Barcelona Red Metallic, Midnight Black Metallic, and Quicksand.

7. Comes Standard with a Toyota Safety Sense

Even the lowest-priced Tacoma model benefits from a standard Toyota Safety Sense package. It gives the Tacoma a clear advantage over the competition. Although you may be a very safe driver, having an extra peace of mind never hurts. If you fail to anticipate an accident, Pre-Collision with Pedestrian Detection can intervene. Lane departure alert and adaptive cruise control are included as well. Blind-spot monitoring is optional.

8. Handles Well On and Off the Road

The 2019 Toyota Tacoma is a very easy truck to drive. A reassuring steering system makes drivers feel confident. It gives you a good connection to the road. Although the Tacoma isn’t a sports sedan, it does not lose its balance around curves. When venturing off-road, the Tacoma remains just as stable. Crawl Control technology keeps you moving over rough landscapes at a safe speed.

9. Well-Designed Entune Infotainment System

An upgraded Entune infotainment system is found on the upper trims. The interface’s 7.0-inch touch screen works very well. Big virtual buttons and clear graphics make it easy to read. There also isn’t much glare from the sun. Although Apple CarPlay and Android Auto aren’t included, you can connect your smartphone via the Entune app.

10. Smart Cargo Management

Drivers who do a lot of hauling will enjoy the Tacoma’s useful cargo features. A cleat tie-down system helps you to keep loads secure. Because the standard composite bed is so tough, a bedliner isn’t needed. When hauling long items, the Tacoma’s removable tailgate is bound to come in handy.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2019 Toyota Tacoma – The Cons

1. Not Great On Gas

In terms of overall fuel consumption, the 2019 Toyota Tacoma is a notch below the competition. When paired with an automatic transmission, both engines are rated by the EPA to return a combined 21 mpg. Four-wheel-drive Tacoma models are especially thirsty. By comparison, the diesel-powered Chevrolet Colorado can deliver up to 30 mpg. On the bright side, Toyota tuned the Tacoma to burn regular unleaded gas.

2. Not the Most Spacious Truck

Don’t expect the 2019 Toyota Tacoma to feel nearly as roomy as a full-size pickup. If you’re taller than average, make sure the Tacoma’s upright driving position won’t be an issue. The optional sunroof will definitely decrease the amount of headroom. Although the Tacoma crew cab can seat up to five people, some passengers may not have enough legroom. Drivers who have a large family should consider the full-size Toyota Tundra.

3. Four-Cylinder Sacrifices Performance

Toyota’s base four-cylinder engine is dependable. However, it does not produce enough power to quickly move this 4,000-pound truck. When carrying a hefty load or driving in mountainous areas, the 159-horsepower engine doesn’t feel very potent. While the four-cylinder engine is cheaper, most drivers will be better off with the optional V6. It’s a lot stronger and just as efficient.

4. NHTSA Four-Star Overall Safety Rating

The 2019 Toyota Tacoma is generally a safe truck. However, it was only able to garner a four-star overall safety rating from the federal government. Drivers who desire the maximum impact protection should consider the 2019 Honda Ridgeline. It received a five-star rating in every crash test performed by the NHTSA.

5. Can’t Tow As Much As a Full-Size Pickup Truck

Most drivers will have no issues with the Tacoma’s towing abilities. This is especially true for the V6-powered models. Nevertheless, the Tacoma isn’t the best option for pulling a 35-foot camper. You’ll likely need just a bit more muscle.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition

Some of the Tacoma’s key rivals include the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado, the 2019 Nissan Frontier, and the 2019 Honda Ridgeline. In terms of long-term reliability, the 2019 Toyota Tacoma outshines every other midsize pickup on the market. Although the Honda Ridgeline is better on gas and a lot roomier, it can’t match the Tacoma’s off-road prowess. Meanwhile, the Nissan Frontier fails to offer enough advanced safety features. If fuel economy is a big concern, take a serious look at the new Chevrolet Colorado.

Conclusion

The 2019 Toyota Tacoma is a solid truck that will last you for years to come. Although the Tacoma isn’t great on gas, it’s efficient enough for the purpose of commuting. Great off-road capabilities make the 2019 Toyota Tacoma even more special. Furthermore, even the base SR model now comes loaded with some helpful safety technologies. Folks seeking a bit more luxury should check out the Limited model, which features niceties such as leather upholstery and a powerful JBL sound system.