With their high ground clearance, it is not easy to get in and out of
the 4WD models. Once inside, the driver finds a nice interior with dual
armrests, dual cupholders and a driver-side foot rest. The instruments
and switch gear are laid out well and have a nice feel. Air conditioning,
radio, power windows, mirrors and locks are all optional and drive the
price up quickly.
The regular cab seats two in comfort. Three can sit--barely--on the
standard bench seat. The five-passenger XtraCab models add a 60/40 split
front bench seat and rear jump seats with a special restraint system designed
for children. XtraCabs can carry four people in relative comfort, but the
primary practical benefit of the extended cab is to provide security and
shelter for smaller items. It also adds another inch of front legroom.
The XtraCab comes with tilt-out quarter windows and a folding table with
cup holders.
We found the 60/40 split cloth bench seat in our Tacoma XtraCab comfortable,
though we prefer the buckets in the SR5 version. XtraCab SR5 models also
include map lights, tilt wheel, full instrumentation, a digital clock,
AM/FM/cassette audio, variable intermittent wipers, a sliding rear window,
chrome trim, and aluminum alloy wheels.
Our 4WD Tacoma seemed to be happiest when bouncing down muddy two-tracks,
slogging through snow or bounding over major moguls. The suspension has
plenty of travel to deal with these hazards and the 4WD system pulled it
through situations where a 2WD probably would have gotten stuck.
If we weren't expecting to bounce, slog or bound very often, though,
we'd think about ordering the 2WD model. The 4WD truck feels a little out
of its element around town with its relatively choppy ride. And like almost
any pickup, a load in the bed improves the ride quality and handling considerably.
Also like most pickups, the performance and ride of a Tacoma will vary
considerably from model to model. The four-cylinder engine on our test
vehicle provided adequate acceleration and the five-speed gearbox shifted
well. The basic 2.4-liter engine isn't as smooth as the 2.7-liter engine.
And the V6 is smoother still.