2006 Toyota Tacoma Reviews, Information & Pricing

Pricing

$14625 to $26460

ORIGINAL MSRP

$12679 to $13310

PRICE RANGE

$13028 to $13310

AVERAGE PRICE

$13371 to $13010

YOY PRICE CHANGE

Pros

The 2006 Toyota Tacoma remains a top choice in the midsize pickup truck segment due to its blend of performance, reliability, and versatility. Here are five key pros that make the 2006 Tacoma stand out:

1. Impressive Off-Road Capabilities One of the standout features of the 2006 Toyota Tacoma is its off-road performance. The available 4x4 drive system, along with the TRD Off-Road package, ensures that the Tacoma can handle rugged terrains with ease. Whether you're traversing dirt trails, rocky paths, or muddy conditions, the Tacoma's durability and off-road prowess make it a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

2. Strong Towing Capacity With its powerful 4.0-liter V6 engine, the 2006 Tacoma offers an impressive towing capacity of up to 6,500 pounds (when properly equipped). This makes the Tacoma a great option for those who need a reliable vehicle to tow boats, trailers, or other heavy loads. For a midsize pickup, this towing capacity is highly competitive, providing both practicality and muscle.

3. Reliability and Durability Toyota is known for building durable and long-lasting vehicles, and the 2006 Tacoma is no exception. Many owners report that their Tacoma continues to perform well even after hundreds of thousands of miles. This exceptional reliability ensures that the truck remains a great investment for those looking for a vehicle that will hold up over time with minimal maintenance.

4. Variety of Configurations The 2006 Tacoma offers a wide variety of configurations to suit different needs. With multiple trim levels, cab options (Regular, Access, and Double Cab), and bed lengths, there’s a Tacoma for virtually every preference. Whether you need a compact work truck or a spacious family hauler, the Tacoma’s configurability makes it an appealing choice for a wide range of buyers.

5. Well-Built Interior The interior of the 2006 Tacoma is functional and well-designed, with durable materials that can withstand wear and tear. The layout is user-friendly, with easily accessible controls and good visibility from the driver’s seat. Higher trim levels, like the Limited, offer more comfort features such as upgraded seats and a more refined cabin, making the Tacoma a good option for those looking for a balance of rugged utility and comfort.

Cons

The 2006 Toyota Tacoma is a highly regarded pickup truck, but like any vehicle, it comes with a few drawbacks. Here are five cons to keep in mind if you’re considering purchasing a 2006 Tacoma:

1. Cramped Rear Seating in Access Cab While the Toyota Tacoma offers impressive utility, the rear seating in the Access Cab is quite limited. The small space in the back of the Access Cab makes it uncomfortable for adult passengers on long trips. For those who regularly carry rear-seat passengers, the Double Cab configuration offers more room and comfort.

2. Stiff Ride Quality The 2006 Tacoma is equipped with a firm suspension that can lead to a rough ride, especially when driving on bumpy or uneven surfaces. While it’s better than earlier models, the truck still doesn’t compare to others in its class in terms of comfort. The ride quality might be a concern for those who want a smooth, comfortable experience over long distances.

3. Fuel Economy Could Be Better The Tacoma’s fuel economy, particularly in the V6 models, could be improved. While the truck delivers reasonable efficiency for its size, it falls short compared to some of its competitors in the midsize pickup market. The 4WD V6 model averages around 16 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. This may not be ideal for those looking to maximize fuel savings.

4. Higher Price Point The 2006 Tacoma is priced higher than many of its competitors, especially when opting for the more powerful V6 engine or upgraded trims. While it’s known for its durability and off-road capabilities, the price tag can be a barrier for those on a budget. Some competitors in the same class offer similar features at a lower price point.

5. Limited Towing Capacity in Base Models While the 2006 Tacoma provides decent towing capabilities, the base models with the 4-cylinder engine fall behind in this category. The 2.7-liter engine offers a towing capacity of only 3,500 pounds, which is less than some competitors. If you need a truck for heavy towing, upgrading to the V6 engine is necessary, but it comes at an additional cost.

2006 Toyota Tacoma: The Reliable Pickup Truck Leading the Pack

The 2006 Toyota Tacoma continues to build on the success of its 2005 redesign, cementing its place as a top contender in the pickup truck market. While the 2006 Tacoma is largely a carryover from the previous year, the model remains one of the best options in its class due to its impressive performance, style, and comfort.

The 2005 refresh introduced a sleek new look, a more comfortable interior, and a smoother ride—features that have made the Tacoma stand out from its competitors. Toyota wisely stuck with what works, making minimal updates to the 2006 model, ensuring that the truck remains ahead of the competition in terms of both form and function.

One of the Tacoma’s key strengths is its variety. It is available in a wide range of trims and body configurations, from a basic work truck to a fully equipped double cab 4x4 off-roader. Whether you need a reliable daily driver or a rugged off-road warrior, the 2006 Tacoma offers a solution for almost every need.

Overall, the 2006 Toyota Tacoma remains a top choice in the pickup truck category, offering excellent performance, versatility, and Toyota’s renowned reliability.

3.3

out of 5

EXPERT REVIEW

Look & feel

Performance

Form & function

Technology

Safety

Cost-effectiveness

2006 Toyota Tacoma Review: Stylish Design & Reliable Performance

The 2006 Toyota Tacoma stands out as a visually appealing pickup truck, though it doesn't fully embrace the ultra-modern, style-forward design trends seen in some of its competitors. Nonetheless, the Tacoma boasts a bold and rugged presence with its updated front end, which was redesigned last year. The new front features larger headlights and a more pronounced grille, enhanced by chrome accents. Its fender flares and smooth curves contribute to a muscular yet approachable look that sets it apart from previous generations.

Inside, the 2006 Tacoma surprises with its high-quality materials that exude a sense of premium craftsmanship, especially when compared to rivals like the Nissan Frontier. While the Tacoma may prioritize function over form, the interior doesn't skimp on comfort or durability. The materials, though solid, provide an upscale feel that elevates the overall driving experience, making it a practical yet attractive choice in the midsize truck market.

2006 Toyota Tacoma Performance & Engine Options

The 2006 Toyota Tacoma offers two powerful engine choices to suit different driving needs. The first is a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, offering solid fuel efficiency for those looking for an economical ride. For those seeking more power and capability, the 4.0-liter V6 engine provides 236 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, delivering enhanced performance and versatility.

While the four-cylinder engine is a great option for daily commutes and better fuel economy, the V6 engine shines in nearly every other aspect. Paired seamlessly with a 5-speed automatic transmission, the V6 Tacoma offers smooth, responsive shifts that enhance in-town driving experiences. Acceleration is quick enough to merge into traffic without hesitation, and reaching highway speeds is effortless.

On the road, the 2006 Tacoma impresses with its sturdy, solid feel, especially on curvy roads where it exhibits minimal body roll. Even though it's a truck, the ride remains comfortable over most road conditions, though rough surfaces can introduce some vibrations and a bit of a jarring effect. For those needing added traction, the 4WD system is intuitive and simple to operate, allowing for easy switching between drive modes when necessary.

2006 Toyota Tacoma Interior Quality & Customization

The 2006 Toyota Tacoma is built to a high standard that rivals many other vehicles, both in the truck segment and beyond. The interior stands out for its impressive comfort and durable construction. Even the base trim levels feature materials and craftsmanship that give the cabin a more premium feel than their price suggests. The seats are ergonomically designed for long drives, providing excellent comfort even on extended journeys. Additionally, the back seats in crew-cab configurations are spacious enough to comfortably accommodate adult passengers.

One of the Tacoma's key selling points is its impressive level of customization. With up to 18 different body styles and trim combinations, there’s a Tacoma configuration to suit virtually every driver’s needs. The options are straightforward, affordable, and smartly packaged, allowing buyers to select exactly what they want without overwhelming them with unnecessary complexity. For those needing ample cargo space, the truck's bed is wide enough for most loads, though longer items may require the tailgate to be lowered or securely tied down to ensure safe transport.

2006 Toyota Tacoma Standard Features

If you're in the market for a 2006 Toyota Tacoma and expect a truck loaded with high-tech amenities, you may want to explore other options. The Tacoma, especially in its base trim, offers a simple and functional design but lacks many of the modern conveniences that some buyers expect. At its lowest trim levels, this truck is quite basic, with no standard air conditioning, power windows, or power door locks.

The stereo system in the base model comes equipped with a CD player, AM/FM radio, and auxiliary inputs for connecting devices. While these features are adequate for most drivers who appreciate the truck's rugged build and reliability, those seeking advanced technology or premium comfort might be disappointed. The Tacoma is designed with practicality in mind, but if you’re a tech enthusiast looking for a feature-packed truck, the Tacoma’s base model may fall short of expectations.

2006 Toyota Tacoma Safety Ratings

The 2006 Toyota Tacoma performs reasonably well in crash tests, offering a solid level of protection. It comes equipped with dual front airbags as standard, ensuring essential safety for both the driver and front passenger. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Tacoma earned a Good rating for both moderate front overlap and side crash tests, providing peace of mind for occupants.

However, the Tacoma's performance was less impressive in roof strength and head restraint testing, where it received a Marginal score. While these areas could be improved, the truck still offers a reliable level of protection in many crash scenarios.

On the positive side, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Tacoma a top rating of five stars for both front- and passenger-side protection, making it a safe choice for those seeking a well-rounded and reliable vehicle.

2006 Toyota Tacoma Price and Fuel Efficiency

At first glance, the 2006 Toyota Tacoma seems like a great value with its attractive starting price of under $15,000. However, it's important to note that the base model comes with few standard features, making it a more basic option for those seeking a well-equipped truck. Models with the 4-cylinder engine offer an impressive fuel efficiency, with ratings of up to 18 mpg in the city, 25 mpg on the highway, and 20 mpg combined when paired with rear-wheel drive (RWD) and a manual transmission.

If you're looking for more power, upgrading to the V6 engine offers solid performance, though fuel efficiency drops slightly to 16 mpg in the city, 21 mpg on the highway, and 18 mpg combined. While the Tacoma is fairly basic in its entry-level configuration, it's relatively easy to add features and upgrades, such as 4WD or additional comfort options, without significantly raising the price.

When fully equipped, the Tacoma comes in just over $25,000, offering excellent value for those who need a reliable, capable truck. With its solid build quality and competitive pricing, the Tacoma delivers a lot of truck for the money, making it an appealing choice for truck buyers seeking both affordability and capability.

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Last Updated On Feb, 10-2025

The Tacoma's 2005 refresh was good enough to put it at the front of the pickup truck pack. That remains true for 2006, despite the fact that the truck is mostly a carryover from the previous year. The Tacoma's 2005 redesign brought a new style, a more comfortable interior, and a much improved ride that pushed the truck well ahead of its competition. Toyota's taking the "don't fix what isn't broken" approach for the 2006 model year, so changes to the Tacoma are minimal at best. Choice is the name of the game here, as the Tacoma is available in a wide array of trims and body and cab configurations. The truck can be ordered as anything from a stripped-down work truck to a double cab 4x4 off-roader.