Flash Drive

2019 Toyota Tacoma

August 29, 2019 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2019 Toyota Tacoma TRD PRO 4×4 Double Cab

The midsize 2019 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab can conquer terrains far more rugged than the average suburban driveway.

Engine:3.5-liter V-6, 278-horsepower 265 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission, four-wheel-drive

EPA Rating: 18-mpg city, 22-mpg highway, 20-mpg combined

Base Price: $45,515

As Tested: $47,812

Performance:

Good acceleration when you put your foot in it

Transmission hunts for right gear on freeway inclines

Dashboard dial 2WD, 4WD high and low

The Tacoma TRD Pro with the Desert Air Intake is perfect for taking shortcuts to Mexico.

High performance Fox shocks

One-inch suspension lift

Athletic off-road capabilities

Comfortable highway ride

TRD Pro skid plate

16-inch black alloy wheels

Locking rear differential with terrain select

Crawl control

Hill start assist

Power steering cooler

Front seat space and comfort are excellent.

Reasonable fuel economy—our best was 20.9-mpg combined

Comfort:

Manual seat adjustments including lumbar knob

No seat height adjustment

Stretch-out driver/front passenger legroom

Thick, contoured steering wheel

Small range tilt/telescopic column

Big grab handle on passenger “A” pillar

Large visors with long slide for side shade

Heated seats (3 temps)

The 5-foot bed on the Double Cab is adequate for most homeowner tasks and for carrying adventure gear.

Rear seat room impacted by front seats

Good rear room if fronts up some

Minimal floor hump

Adult can fit in middle on soft cushion

Utility:

5-foot cargo bed

Locking tailgate

Six cargo loops

Power sliding rear window (very quick)

Rather dim interior lights

A side view illustrates the compromise between cab space and bed length.

Small front door bins

Medium rear door bins with drink holders

Medium console bin

Locking medium size glovebox

Split rear seats fold flat

WOW Factors:

Aggressive styling

Athletic off-road performance

Brilliant Voodoo Blue paint

We thought the Desert Air Intake snorkel was a bit much for city driving.

Middle rear cushion super soft/comfy

Whines:

Desert Air Intake snorkel scoop is overkill for street driving

Snorkel scoop is $725 option

Transmission downshifts frequently on freeway grades

No driver seat height adjustment

Bottom Line:

The 2019 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab is a fine multipurpose midsize pickup that’s ideal for adventurous families. There’s ample room for people and cargo. In the top TRD PRO 4×4 trim the Tacoma can go almost anywhere.