2005 Toyota Tacoma Program #2406

In case you haven’t noticed, pickup trucks keep getting bigger. Full-size pickups have gone super-size, while compacts are growing to mid-size. And the latest to do that is the 2005 Toyota Tacoma. But as the best selling compact 4x4 pickup, and second in overall compact sales to the Ford Ranger, does Toyota risk alienating a loyal following with an up-sized Tacoma?

Toyota was already a major force in compact pickups when the first Tacoma arrived in 1995. Now with an all new and substantially beefier 2005 Tacoma, Toyota is aiming for nothing less than being number one among non-full-size pickups.

Toyota’s new generation personal use pickup is driving for that prize by growing into a mid-size truck with a new chassis derived from the 4Runner. Wheelbases range from 109.4 to 140.9-inches, with maximum overall length measuring 221.3-inches, or longer than most full-size Tundra models. The decision to grow Tacoma to mid-size was based on a shrinking market for compact trucks as buyers demand more room and capabilities.

This wider Tacoma still offers three cabs, Regular and extended Access Cab, and the four-door Double Cab, and both 5- and 6-foot 2-tier bed styles that are an inch shorter than last year, but 2-inches deeper. Also, the long bed is now available on all cabs. All beds feature a new more durable composite inner bed that’s lighter than steel, as well as adjustable tie down cleats. V6 powered models can add packages that include a 115 volt/400 watt power point in the bed.

Engines are larger and more powerful for 2005. The base 2.7-liter 4-cylinder delivers 164 horsepower and 183 pound-feet of torque. That’s an increase of 22 horsepower and 23 pound-feet. Tacoma’s new 4.0-liter dual-cam V6, which is shared with the larger Tundra, pumps out 245 horses and 282 pound-feet of torque. That’s 55 horses and 62 pound-feet more than last year’s 3.4-liter. Transmissions are a 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic with the 4-cylinder, or a 6-speed manual and 5-speed automatic with the V6. More power means more towing capacity as Tacoma’s jumps by 30%, to a 6,500 pound maximum, or only slightly less than the full-size Tundra.

Along with more utility, Toyota has also put a lot more sport in the 18-model Tacoma line with the new X-Runner. It features a standard V6, reinforced frame, lowered suspension, enhanced brakes, and a 6-speed manual transmission. It’s aimed at bringing sports car cornering to pickups. The street-oriented Sport Package adds racier bodywork and graphics, a limited-slip differential, and low profile tires on 17-inch wheels. The TRD Off-Road package is also upgraded, with a locking rear differential, progressive springs, plus beefier shocks and stabilizer bars.

All 2005 Tacomas feature 4-wheel anti-lock brakes with Brake Assist. Toyota has also added Vehicle Skid Control and traction control to the options list.

Toyota introduced us to the new Tacoma in the wilds of Alaska. Out there a tough truck is essential, and the Tacoma immediately impressed us with its solid feel. The V6 engine is smooth with plenty of low end pull, though it does tend to be a little on the noisy side when pushed to the top of the rev band. On-road handling is sharp and stable, with the rack-and-pinion power steering delivering high levels of feedback. You barely feel the extra size. 4x4 Tacoma loyalists take note: off-road performance is equally impressive. While ground clearance is down a bit, the part-time 4-wheel-drive system’s 2.57 low gear still allows you to crawl carefully over obstacles both tall and small. Hill Start Assist and Downhill Assist Control are also offered on some models, adding an extra measure of control when negotiating slippery surfaces.

Toyota has added an extra measure of comfort to the new Tacoma as well. The cabin is more than 4-inches wider, and features a higher level of standard equipment. Plus new safety features like optional side impact and head curtain airbags for Double Cabs. The new dash is cleaner with a very logical control layout, while the front seats offer more travel for taller folks. Rear seating is easier to reach thanks to the new opening rear panels on the Access Cab, and longer rear doors on the Double Cab. Fold flat rear seats provide plenty of covered cargo space.

Is a plus-size pickup your idea of the perfect truck? Well, if it is, you won’t need a plus size bank account to buy one. Prices for the Tacoma will start at about $13,000, and climb to $24,000. Pretty much in line with the still compact Ford Ranger.

The 2005 Toyota Tacoma definitely kicks the smaller pickup truck market up a notch and we think most fans of Tacoma will be pleased. It certainly is the biggest sign yet that what people want in smaller trucks has changed and provides Ranger and others a target that’s sure to keep moving from street, to trail, and maybe even to segment leading sales success!