2011 Toyota Tacoma Returns with Above Average MPGs
In the world of pickup trucks, the 2011 Toyota Tacoma is one of the most efficient options on the road. A variety of cabin configurations, decent power and strong safety scores also add value to the popular Tacoma brand. Learn what's new on the 2011 Toyota Tacoma and review mpgs, engine specs and pricing.
What's New - 2011 Toyota Tacoma
The 2011 Tacoma is largely the same truck as the 2010 model. However, a few features have been shuffled around and a few trims get upgraded with a slightly different front grille design. Perhaps the most notable change is the availability of an automatic transmission with the four-cylinder engine. New standard features across most trims include air conditioning and front bucket seats. Optional off-road packages have also been bolstered.
2011 Toyota Tacoma Styling
Overall, the Tacoma exerts an aggressive styling that many truck drivers will find appealing. Available cab configurations include Regular Cab, Extended Cab (with suicide-hinged rear doors) and Double Cab (full-sized rear doors). All cabins are available with a 6-foot bed (though Double Cabs come standard with a 5-foot bed). This standard bed length is longer than much of the competition.
Inside, the Tacoma delivers a low seating stance that gives the vehicle a more sedan-like driving environment. Though the interior design is simplistic, the Tacoma comes outfitted with more standard features than most mid-size pickup trucks. As is expected in this class, rear seating is a bit cramped in Regular Cab configurations. Interior storage space is on par with the competition.
2011 Toyota Tacoma Performance
The Tacoma's base 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft. of torque. While not really powerful enough to deliver towing and hauling capabilities, this starter engine offers the advantage of fuel efficiency. Outfitted with the manual transmission, base models enjoy 21 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. Opt for an automatic transmission and/or four-wheel drive, and those figures will drop a bit.
For those who intend to use their trucks for off-road and towing purposes, the 4.0-liter V-6 is likely a better option. With 236 horsepower and 266 lb-ft. of torque, the V-6 Tacoma is rated to tow up to 6,500 lbs. Transmission options are numerous, and include a five-speed manual, six-speed manual, four-speed automatic and five-speed automatic. Maximum mileage for the V-6 engine comes in at 17 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway.
2011 Toyota Tacoma Safety
The Toyota Tacoma's list of safety features is healthy - anti-lock brakes, brake assist, six airbags, stability control, traction control and active front headrests are all standard. Four-wheel drive models rigged with an automatic transmission also come stocked with hill-start assist and downhill assist. For 2011, the Toyota Tacoma is listed as a "Top Safety Pick" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
2011 Toyota Tacoma Prices and Features
Base MSRP for the 2011 Tacoma is listed as $16,365. Despite the fact that this undercuts a majority of the competition, the Tacoma comes well-equipped right out of the gate. Base models come complete with air conditioning, four-speaker stereo, CD player, auxiliary input, composite bedliner, utility rail system and limited-slip differential. Upgrade to the $19,655 Access Cab, and you'll also get power accessories, enhanced cloth upholstery, six-speaker stereo and a rear seat storage compartment.
Available options packages add such features as keyless entry, cruise control, steering wheel audio controls and rearview camera. Off-road packages include fender flares, enhanced suspension, locking rear differential, skid plate, all-terrain tires and tube side steps. Top-of-the-line models sell for around $27,000.