The Toyota Tacoma has long been a staple for truck lovers who value durability, off-road capability, and dependable performance. Known for its balance of utility and style, the Tacoma consistently ranks as a top choice for enthusiasts and daily drivers alike. However, when shopping for a Tacoma, many buyers are surprised to discover that the standard bed lengths don’t always conform to their expectations — particularly when it comes to the 6-foot bed.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore the answer to the question: Can you get a Tacoma with a 6-foot bed? The short answer: No, the Toyota Tacoma does not come with a 6-foot bed. But before purchasing a truck, it’s important to consider your specific cargo needs and understand how Tacoma bed sizes work in relation to cab styles and configurations. Let’s dive into the details.
Tacoma Bed Sizes Overview
The bed length of a truck is crucial because it directly affects the truck’s utility and cargo-carrying capabilities. Toyota offers the Tacoma in two bed lengths: a shorter bed and a longer bed, depending on the cab configuration. Let’s break down the offerings by cab type.
Regular Cab
The entry-level trim of the Tacoma, the Regular Cab, offers the most versatility in terms of bed size. It features two options:
- Long Bed (73.3 inches / ~6.1 feet)
- Short Bed (60.5 inches / ~5 feet)
Although the long bed on the Regular Cab is technically just over 6 feet, it is not exactly 6 feet and Toyota does not list it as a “6-foot bed” option in its configurations.
Double Cab
The Double Cab, sometimes referred to as a Crew Cab in other brands, provides more passenger space in the rear. However, with this added passenger room comes a reduction in bed space. The Double Cab Tacoma is offered with only one bed length:
- Short Bed (60.5 inches / ~5 feet)
Note that even though it’s labeled as a short bed, its length is not 5 feet exactly. It’s just under that. The measurement of 60.5 inches makes it a little over 5 feet.
TRD Pro and Limited Edition Models
Whether it’s the TRD Pro, TRD Off Road, or Tacoma Limited, all upper-tier trims are available with the same cab and bed configurations as the standard Double or Regular Cab models. There is no special edition or package that adds a “6-foot bed” option to the Tacoma lineup.
Does Toyota Offer a 6-Foot Bed on Any Tacoma Model?
Despite the popularity of the 6-foot bed in the midsize truck segment, Toyota has not included a true 6-foot bed (i.e., exactly 72 inches) in its Tacoma specifications. The maximum bed length available is slightly over 6 feet (about 6.1 feet) in the Regular Cab long bed trim, but that is the closest Toyota comes.
Why No 6-Foot Bed?
One may wonder why Toyota does not offer a 6-foot option when other mid-size trucks like the Ford Ranger or Chevrolet Colorado do so. The answer lies mainly in engineering strategy and design priorities. Toyota’s focus appears to be more on off-road performance, towing capability, and long-term reliability rather than fitting into a specific bed dimension category.
Toyota engineers the Tacoma for a certain balance of approach angles, departure angles, and overall body proportions. The bed lengths have evolved over the years to adhere to these core design principles.
Comparison with Competitors
To better understand the situation, let’s compare the bed lengths of the Tacoma versus its key competitors:
| Model | Bed Lengths | Standard Bed (6-ft Option Available) |
|---|---|---|
| Toyota Tacoma | ~60.5 inches (short), ~73.3 inches (long) | No |
| Ford Ranger | ~67 inches, ~76 inches | Yes (available as 5’7″) |
| Chevrolet Colorado | ~75.9 inches | Yes (available in Crew Cab 6-ft bed) |
While competitors like the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado offer a 6-foot bed, Toyota does not, making the Tacoma an anomaly in the mid-size segment.
Which Tacoma Trim Offers the Longest Bed?
As previously established, the longest bed is found in the Regular Cab Tacoma long bed version. Let’s explore this in greater detail.
Regular Cab Tacoma with Long Bed
The Regular Cab Tacoma can seat up to three people, with a single bench seat in the front. It provides the most practical bed length for truck buyers primarily concerned with hauling cargo or equipment.
Breakdown:
- Cab Type: Regular (Standard Cab)
- Bed Length: 73.3 inches (~6.1 feet)
- Door Count: Two front doors
- Ideal for: Contractors, hobbyists, anyone needing maximum bed space
This trim is often overlooked by buyers who assume more doors and more rear legroom translate to more overall utility, but in reality, the extra cargo length can be a game-changer for users with hauling-heavy needs.
Double Cab Tacoma with Short Bed
The Double Cab is ideal for those wanting rear seating and more everyday usability. With four full doors and space for up to five adults comfortably, this trim is family-friendly but has a consequential sacrifice in bed length.
The bed measures just over 5 feet in this configuration, which may be adequate for some users but insufficient for those carrying long cargo like ladders, pipes, or furniture.
Tacoma Bed Length Considerations: What Should Buyers Look For?
Understanding the trade-offs between bed length and cab style is essential when choosing a Tacoma model. Here are a few considerations:
What Are Your Primary Needs?
Ask yourself:
- Will you carry long objects frequently? (e.g., lumber, ladder, pipes)
- Will you need to transport large cargo for work or weekend projects?
If the answers are yes, the Regular Cab long bed version of the Tacoma, with its 73.3-inch bed, is going to best suit your needs.
Measuring Your Cargo
Before dismissing the 60.5-inch bed, consider precisely what you usually haul. Many users might find that 5 feet is adequate for most tools and gear — unless you regularly haul materials longer than 5 feet without folding or breaking them down.
Passenger Requirements
If you’re often carrying passengers in the back, the Double Cab is necessary. That trade-off in bed space comes at the expense of utility in cargo length but enhances daily usability and family-friendliness.
Off-road Configuration vs. Bed Length
Some buyers prioritize off-road capabilities like extra ground clearance, skid plates, and locking differentials over bed space. In such cases, it’s possible to sacrifice an inch or two in cargo length to gain better performance in rugged terrain.
The TRD Pro edition, for instance, is built for off-road performance rather than urban hauling needs. Its bed length is the same as all Double Cab models (60.5 inches), but its features are tuned for adventure.
Can You Extend or Modify a Tacoma’s Bed?
Knowing that the Tacoma doesn’t offer a true 6-foot bed, some owners may explore modifications or accessories to enhance bed utility. Here’s a look at possible options, both aesthetic and practical:
Truck Bed Extenders
A straightforward way to gain a short amount of additional space is by installing a bed extender, which attaches to the rear bumper or tailgate and allows longer objects to hang beyond the bed without obstructing tail lights or hanging into traffic.
While helpful for emergency situations or infrequent hauling, a truck bed extender is a workaround — not a substitute for a full-length bed.
Custom Bed Modifications
Some truck enthusiasts choose to modify trucks withcustom builds that extend bed length. However, this involves altering frame rails, body panels, and potentially modifying the drivetrain and rear suspension, which can compromise structural integrity, void warranties, and cost thousands of dollars. This route is only recommended for those with advanced mechanical skills or a budget for professional fabrication.
Is It Worth It?
For those considering a bed extension or frame change, the costs versus benefits need to be evaluated carefully. Toyota’s chassis and bed design are engineered for specific load capacities and stress tolerances. Altering the bed length might have unintended consequences such as:
- Reduced payload capacity
- Modified center of gravity (affecting stability)
- Voiding of vehicle warranty
- Reduced resale value or certification issues
Unless you’re building a specialized rig, modifying your Taco for an extended bed is likely not worth it financially or mechanically.
Alternatives to the Tacoma With a 6-Foot Bed
Buyers fixated on a 6-foot bed will find alternatives among Tacoma’s competitors. Understanding these options may help in making the right decision.
Ford Ranger
The Ford Ranger offers multiple bed options in its SuperCab and SuperCrew configurations. Its mid-length option is around 67 inches (~5’7″), which may be enough for users who want something beyond the typical 5-foot bed but don’t necessarily need exactly 72 inches.
Chevrolet Colorado
The Colorado crew cab comes available with an actual 6-foot bed (72 inches), making it a solid alternative for truck buyers focused on usability and cargo capacity.
Jeep Gladiator
While not a direct competitor in price class, the Jeep Gladiator brings a full-sized pickup truck bed into play, with bed lengths up to approximately 60 inches in some configurations. Though not 6 feet exactly, this vehicle brings exceptional off-road capability and a strong retro aesthetic that appeals to particular audiences.
Resale and Market Trends
Before finalizing a purchase, it’s critical to consider market trends and resale value, especially if you plan on upgrading or selling your Tacoma within a few years.
Popularity of Double Cab Trim
Across the U.S., Double Cab models have become the most popular versions of the Tacoma. The majority of buyers choose 4-door configurations for their versatility and comfort, even though the bed is shortened slightly.
This popularity affects available inventory when trading in or purchasing a used Tacoma — with Double Cab models retaining high resale value and wide buyer appeal.
How Does Trim Level Affect Value?
Tacoma models in TRD trim and premium configurations such as the Limited or TRD Pro are known to hold their value better than base models. Because these models focus on ruggedness, performance, and aesthetics, they are in demand within off-road and enthusiast communities.
Bed Length and Resale
While Regular Cab models with extra bed length offer stronger utility for contractors, tradespeople, or outdoorsmen, they have generally had lower demand in recent years, particularly among urban buyers.
Thus, while the Regular Cab with a long bed offers more cargo space, it often commands slightly lower resale prices than its Double Cab counterpart.
Choosing the Right Tacoma for Your Lifestyle
Ultimately, the question “Can you get a Tacoma with a 6-foot bed?” is not just about bed length — it’s about how all the truck’s features and configurations align with your intended use.
Ask the Right Questions
Whether you’re shopping for your first Tacoma or upgrading your current vehicle:
- Do I need frequent rear passenger access or seating?
- How often do I carry cargo longer than five feet?
- What’s my priority: comfort, off-road capability, or cargo utility?
Answering these will help you narrow down the ideal cab and trim configuration for your needs — even without a six-foot bed.
Test Drive All Viable Configurations
Every trim and bed style feels different behind the wheel. Do a live test of passenger space and observe cargo dimensions firsthand at your local dealership. Seeing the bed layout and tailgate clearance in person may give additional insight that specs alone can’t provide.
Consult Owner Forums and Reviews
Websites like Tacoma World, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, and consumer review platforms can offer practical insights from real Tacoma owners regarding daily use, hauling habits, and long-term ownership experience. This community feedback often shines light on dimensions, load capacity, and real-life bed usefulness beyond the official numbers.
Conclusion
The Toyota Tacoma does not come with a 6-foot bed (72 inches), but that doesn’t mean it lacks utility or flexibility. Through Regular Cab configurations with a 73.3-inch bed (~6.1 feet), it offers cargo-hauling potential that’s slightly over six feet — the closest Toyota gets. For many users, this “almost-6-foot” bed will be sufficient for everyday use and occasional hauling, especially when combined with intelligent cargo management or accessories.
If exactly 6 feet of bed length is non-negotiable, Toyota hasn’t provided that option in the Tacoma’s design. However, its competitors have, and buyers seeking precise dimensions may find viable alternatives elsewhere in the mid-size truck market.
Whether you’re a contractor, weekend adventurer, or just someone who loves reliable machines, the Toyota Tacoma remains a top-tier truck — even without a 6-foot bed. The key is understanding your own unique needs and matching them to the configuration that serves you the best.
With thoughtful planning and the right trim selection, you can optimize your Tacoma experience and make the most of what this rugged truck has to offer.
What are the bed length options for the Toyota Tacoma?
The Toyota Tacoma offers two primary bed length options depending on the cab configuration. For the Access Cab models, the standard bed length is 6.1 feet, which provides a versatile balance of passenger space and cargo capacity. On the other hand, the Double Cab models come with a shorter 5-foot bed, which sacrifices some rear cargo space to offer more passenger room and comfort.
If you’re looking specifically for a 6-foot bed, you’ll find that the Access Cab aligns most closely with that length. While the 6.1-foot bed isn’t exactly 6 feet, it’s very close and often referred to as a 6-foot bed in casual conversation. Buyers seeking maximum truck bed utility should opt for the Access Cab, especially when hauling larger items or needing additional cargo space for work or recreation.
Can I get a 6-foot bed on all Tacoma trim levels?
Yes, the availability of the 6-foot (technically 6.1-foot) bed is determined by the cab style rather than the trim level. The Access Cab is the only configuration that offers this bed length, and it’s available across all trim levels including SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro. This means regardless of whether you’re selecting a base model or a high-end off-road version, you can choose the longer bed as long as you opt for the Access Cab.
However, trim levels can influence other aspects of cargo utility, such as the addition of features like a bed extender, tonneau cover, or integrated storage solutions. So while the 6-foot bed itself is available across trim levels, you may want to consider how each trim enhances or limits the Tacoma’s overall usefulness for hauling and storage tasks.
What’s the difference between the Access Cab and Double Cab Tacomas?
The primary difference between the Access Cab and Double Cab Tacoma models lies in passenger space and bed length. The Access Cab, previously known as the Xtracab, features smaller rear doors and less rear legroom, making it better suited for occasional use or small passengers. However, it benefits from a longer bed of 6.1 feet, offering more cargo space than the Double Cab.
In contrast, the Double Cab has significantly larger rear doors and more legroom, making it ideal for families or those who frequently carry passengers in the back seat. However, this enhanced passenger space comes at the expense of a shorter 5-foot bed. Buyers should consider their priorities—passenger comfort versus cargo capacity—when choosing between the two cab styles.
Is a 6-foot bed suitable for hauling large items like lumber or furniture?
A 6-foot bed on the Toyota Tacoma is generally suitable for hauling many large items such as sheets of plywood, ladders, or furniture, especially when the tailgate is down to extend the load length. Lumber up to 8 feet long can typically fit diagonally or with part of it extending beyond the rear of the truck. However, caution must be taken when securing such loads to ensure safe transportation and compliance with local laws regarding overhang and cargo cover.
Additionally, the Tacoma’s bed is constructed with lightweight yet durable materials and offers various tie-down points and optional accessories like bed liners and cargo management systems. These features enhance the functionality of the 6-foot bed, making it a practical option for small businesses, DIYers, or weekend warriors. While not the largest bed in its class, it offers sufficient space for most light- to medium-duty hauling tasks.
What are the advantages of choosing the Access Cab with a 6-foot bed?
Choosing the Access Cab Tacoma with a 6.1-foot bed offers a number of benefits, particularly for those who prioritize cargo capacity over rear passenger space. The longer bed allows for greater utility when transporting tools, equipment, or materials, making this configuration especially popular among contractors, landscapers, and outdoor enthusiasts. It also maintains a relatively compact overall vehicle size, which aids in maneuverability and parking ease compared to larger trucks.
Furthermore, the Access Cab model provides a balanced design that doesn’t compromise too much on comfort or drivability. While not as spacious as the Double Cab, it still offers enough interior room for day-to-day driving or occasional use of the rear seats. For drivers who don’t frequently carry adults in the back seat, the extra cargo room of the Access Cab can be a significant advantage.
Are there any Tacoma models where a 6-foot bed is not available?
The 6.1-foot bed is exclusive to the Access Cab Tacoma models and not available on the Double Cab configuration. The Double Cab was designed with a shorter wheelbase to accommodate the larger rear doors and enhanced passenger cabin space, resulting in a bed length of 5 feet. If your needs require more passenger room or frequent back-seat access, you’ll have to forgo the longer bed in favor of the Double Cab’s layout.
Additionally, special edition models like the TRD Pro or limited-time trims may offer exclusive features or styling, but they still adhere to the same bed configurations dictated by cab type. Therefore, while trim levels can affect equipment and styling choices, they do not change the bed length options available to you. Always confirm the cab configuration when looking for a 6-foot bed in any Tacoma model.
How do the Tacoma’s bed dimensions compare with those of its competitors?
Compared to other midsize pickups, the Tacoma’s bed lengths are in line with most offerings, though nuances exist between configurations. For example, the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon Access Cab versions also offer a 6-foot bed, while their crew cab models have 5-foot or shorter bed options. Similarly, the Ford Ranger’s SuperCab model comes with a 6-foot bed, and the Super Crew offers a 5-foot bed. This makes the Tacoma competitive in terms of bed utility within the midsize truck segment.
What sets the Tacoma apart is its reputation for durability, strong resale value, and off-road readiness, especially in configurations like the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro. While some competitors may offer more advanced tech or slightly more refined interiors, Toyota’s vehicle is often favored by those who value ruggedness and reliability, especially when combined with the longer bed option in the Access Cab model.