2016 Toyota Tacoma: A Comprehensive Review of the Redesigned Midsize Pickup

The Tacoma's Long-Awaited Redesign

Facing its first real competition in years from GM's revived midsize truck lineup, Toyota invested heavily in refreshing the Tacoma. The 2016 model represents the first ground-up redesign since 2005, bringing:

• An all-new Atkinson-cycle V6 engine
• Redesigned six-speed automatic transmission
• Improved Crawl Control off-road system
• Enhanced frame construction with high-strength steel
• Modernized interior with upgraded materials

While these changes position the Tacoma as a more competitive offering, our testing revealed several areas where Toyota's approach differs significantly from competitors—for better and worse.

Build Quality and Materials: Where the Tacoma Falls Short

The Persistent "Tinny" Door Issue

One immediately noticeable characteristic of the 2016 Tacoma is the hollow sound produced when closing the doors. This phenomenon, common among smaller pickups, results from:

• Thinner gauge steel in door construction
• Minimal sound-deadening materials
• Simpler door seal designs compared to premium vehicles

While this doesn't indicate compromised safety (the Tacoma earns top crash test ratings), it creates a perception of lower quality—especially when compared to the more substantial feel of GM's Colorado/Canyon twins.

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Weight Savings vs. Structural Integrity

Toyota's engineers prioritized weight reduction through:

• Strategic use of high-strength steel in the frame
• Ultra-high-strength steel in body panels
• Aluminum components in non-structural areas

The result is a truck that achieves slightly better payload (1,620 lbs) and towing (6,800 lbs) capacities than its predecessor, though still trailing the Colorado's maximum 7,700 lb towing rating. Some testers noted the Colorado feels more substantial despite similar weight figures.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

The New V6 Engine: Advanced But Unconventional

Toyota's switch to an Atkinson-cycle V6 represents a bold engineering choice that delivers:

• Improved thermal efficiency (up to 38%)
• Better fuel economy than the outgoing engine
• Variable valve timing with wide-angle capability

However, the power delivery feels markedly different from traditional Otto-cycle engines. The torque curve favors higher RPMs, requiring drivers to adapt their acceleration habits. While sophisticated, some question whether this design suits buyers who frequently haul heavy loads at lower engine speeds.

Steering and Handling Compromises

During mountain road testing, several issues became apparent:

• Numb on-center steering feel (particularly in Double Cab models)
• Slow steering ratio requiring more input in curves
• Wide turning circle (43.3 ft for Double Cab long bed)

These characteristics suggest Toyota prioritized durability and off-road capability over precise on-road manners—a reasonable choice given the Tacoma's core audience but noticeable to drivers coming from more car-like trucks.

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Off-Road Capabilities: Strengths and Missed Opportunities

Impressive Crawl Control System

The updated Multi-Terrain Select system offers:

• Five terrain modes (Mud & Sand, Loose Rock, etc.)
• Automatic throttle and braking modulation
• Low-speed (1-5 mph) cruise control for technical sections

In testing, this system proved remarkably effective at maintaining traction in loose surfaces, though the engagement process feels more complicated than competitors' systems.

Tire Selection Limitations

For a truck with such capable off-road hardware, the factory tire options disappoint:

• TRD Off-Road models come with all-season tires
• No factory all-terrain or mud-terrain options
• Rubber compounds favor road noise reduction over grip

This represents a clear area where buyers will likely need to invest in aftermarket rubber for serious off-roading—an odd choice given the TRD trim's adventure-ready marketing.

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Notable Omissions and Future Potential

The Drum Brake Controversy

While most competitors have moved to all-wheel disc setups, Toyota retains rear drum brakes, citing:

• Proven durability in harsh conditions
• Reduced maintenance requirements
• Cost savings redirected to other upgrades

However, during steep descent testing, the drums showed noticeable fade before the front discs—a concern for those regularly towing in mountainous areas. Toyota's position seems increasingly anachronistic as even base model competitors adopt discs.

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TRD Pro Tease

Absent from the initial 2016 lineup, the TRD Pro variant would later debut with:

• Fox internal bypass shocks
• Unique springs and suspension tuning
• 16-inch matte black wheels
• Aggressive exterior styling cues

The delayed introduction allowed Toyota to gauge competitor responses while building anticipation—a savvy marketing move that kept the Tacoma in headlines beyond its launch.

How the Tacoma Stacks Up Against the Competition

When compared to the Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon twins, key differences emerge:

The Tacoma maintains advantages in brand loyalty and predicted reliability, while the Colorado offers more powerful engine options and a more refined driving experience.

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Final Verdict: Who Should Consider the 2016 Tacoma?

Ideal For:

• Buyers prioritizing long-term reliability
• Off-road enthusiasts who will modify their trucks
• Those who prefer Toyota's simpler control interfaces
• Drivers in areas with strong Toyota dealer networks

Might Want to Consider Alternatives If:

• Maximum towing capacity is critical
• You prefer car-like driving dynamics
• Premium interior materials are important
• You frequently drive in steep mountain terrain

While not perfect, the 2016 Tacoma successfully modernized Toyota's midsize truck offering without abandoning the core attributes that made it America's best-selling midsize pickup for over a decade. The improvements in fuel efficiency, off-road technology, and payload capacity address most buyer needs, even if some choices like drum brakes and steering tuning remain puzzling.

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