TOYOTA Tacoma

LOOKS . Gee Wiz
PERFORMANCE . Noisy
HANDLING . Bouncy
COMFORT . Pretty Good
QUALITY . Excellent
STEREO . Standard Issue
FUN TO DRIVE . Country
GADGET FACTOR . Limited
HEADS TURNED . Backpackers
EMOTION . Cheatin' Heart
CACHET . Country Western

SPECIFICATIONS

TOUGH LOVE

Toyota and Datsun (Nissan) invented the small pick-up truck and for years built the best examples thereof for an every growing audience. These days, everybody has crashed the party so Toyota has reloaded the scorecard with the all-new Tacoma. When we tally the changes, we come up with a few wins and a few losses.

Looks are a big winner, in that they make the modest size seem a lot bigger and brawnier than it really is. A tough looking face and interesting side sculpting lend a new and able air to it all. The interior is likewise well done, attractive and durable. Materials and finish are class leading. Everybody will know that you got a "new" truck and a sharp one too.

Toyota's new focus puts power paramount and both the standard 4 and the optional DOHC V6 have more oomph than the competition. Drivetrain refinement is likewise state of the cart for workhorse wheels. The new suspension gets mixed reviews for a busy, darty steering feel and a jiggly ride quality. Comparison reviews have rated the Tacoma mid-pack at best for the serious off-road stuff as well. Mechanical fortitude and long term reliability are Toyota legends.

On the inside, all is well appointed and the fine seats are augmented by a usefull Xtracab rear compartment, open to short jaunts with Xtrapeople. The cabin was very comfortable and quiet for a pick-up.

On the inside, all is well appointed and the fine seats are augmented by a usefull Xtracab rear compartment, open to shortjaunts with Xtrapeople. The cabin was very comfortable and quiet for a pick-up.

When we come to judgement time the price factor cannot be ignored.This is a nice truck, but not necessarily worth the premium sticker one finds on the window.

REXX TAYLOR