The Toyota Tacoma is one of the most popular and enduring pickup trucks in the market, known for its reliability, durability, and off-road prowess. As we reflect on the year 2019, it’s essential to assess whether it was a good year for Tacomas, considering factors such as sales, updates, recalls, and customer satisfaction. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Tacomas and explore the key events, updates, and trends that defined 2019 for this beloved vehicle.
Introduction to the 2019 Toyota Tacoma
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma was part of the third generation of Tacomas, which was introduced in 2016. The 2019 model year saw some significant updates, including new trim levels, enhanced safety features, and improved infotainment systems. The Tacoma was available in six trim levels: SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro. Each trim level catered to different needs and preferences, from basic work trucks to high-performance off-road vehicles.
Design and Features
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma boasted a rugged and aggressive design, with a bold front grille, swept-back headlights, and a distinctive hood scoop. The interior was equally impressive, with premium materials, intuitive controls, and ample storage space. Some notable features included a 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay compatibility, and a suite of safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. The Tacoma’s interior was designed to be both functional and comfortable, making it an excellent choice for daily driving and off-road adventures.
Performance and Capability
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma was available with two engine options: a 2.7-liter four-cylinder and a 3.5-liter V6. The V6 engine produced 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, making it well-suited for towing and hauling. The Tacoma’s four-wheel-drive system and locking rear differential provided excellent traction and control on various terrain, from rocky trails to sandy dunes. The Tacoma’s off-road capability was further enhanced by its Crawl Control system, which allowed drivers to navigate challenging terrain at low speeds.
Sales and Market Performance
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma was a commercial success, with sales totaling over 248,000 units in the United States alone. This represented a modest increase of 1.4% compared to the previous year. The Tacoma’s strong sales performance can be attributed to its reputation for reliability, durability, and off-road capability, as well as its wide range of trim levels and options. The Tacoma’s sales figures were also boosted by its popularity among outdoor enthusiasts and off-road enthusiasts, who appreciate its ruggedness and versatility.
Competitor Analysis
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma faced stiff competition from other mid-size pickup trucks, including the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, and Nissan Frontier. However, the Tacoma’s unique blend of off-road capability, reliability, and features helped it stand out in a crowded market. A comparison of the key specifications and features of these vehicles is provided in the following table:
| Vehicle | Engine | Horsepower | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Tacoma | 3.5-liter V6 | 278 | 6,800 lbs |
| Ford Ranger | 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder | 270 | 7,500 lbs |
| Chevrolet Colorado | 3.6-liter V6 | 308 | 7,000 lbs |
| Nissan Frontier | 3.8-liter V6 | 310 | 6,640 lbs |
Recalls and Reliability
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma was subject to several recalls, including ones related to the engine, transmission, and safety features. However, it’s worth noting that Toyota is known for its proactive approach to addressing safety concerns and issuing recalls to ensure customer safety. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2019 Toyota Tacoma had a relatively low number of complaints and recalls compared to other vehicles in its class.
Customer Satisfaction
Customer satisfaction with the 2019 Toyota Tacoma was generally high, with many owners praising its reliability, durability, and off-road capability. Some common criticisms included the Tacoma’s rough ride, noisy engine, and limited infotainment options. However, overall, the Tacoma’s strengths outweighed its weaknesses, making it a popular choice among pickup truck enthusiasts. The Tacoma’s high levels of customer satisfaction were reflected in its strong resale value, with many owners reporting that their vehicles held their value well over time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 2019 was a good year for Tacomas, with strong sales, updated features, and a continued reputation for reliability and off-road capability. While the Tacoma faced competition from other mid-size pickup trucks, its unique blend of features and capabilities helped it stand out in a crowded market. As we look to the future, it’s clear that the Toyota Tacoma will remain a popular choice among pickup truck enthusiasts, with its rugged design, impressive performance, and strong resale value making it an excellent investment for anyone in the market for a reliable and capable vehicle. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a contractor, or simply someone who appreciates the freedom and versatility of a pickup truck, the Toyota Tacoma is an excellent choice that is sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
Was the 2019 Toyota Tacoma a reliable vehicle?
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma received generally positive reviews from critics and owners alike, with many praising its reliability and durability. According to various reliability and satisfaction surveys, the 2019 Tacoma ranked high in terms of overall reliability, with many owners reporting low maintenance costs and few mechanical issues. Additionally, the Tacoma’s rugged design and robust construction helped to contribute to its reputation as a dependable workhorse.
In terms of specific reliability metrics, the 2019 Tacoma had a lower-than-average number of reported problems and complaints compared to other vehicles in its class. This was due in part to Toyota’s reputation for building high-quality vehicles, as well as the Tacoma’s simple and proven design. However, as with any vehicle, it’s essential to note that individual experiences can vary, and some owners may have reported issues with certain components or systems. Nevertheless, the overall consensus suggests that the 2019 Tacoma was a reliable vehicle that could withstand the rigors of daily driving and off-road use.
What were the key updates and changes for the 2019 Toyota Tacoma?
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma received several key updates and changes, including a revised grille and front fascia, new headlight designs, and updated wheel options. Inside, the Tacoma featured a range of new convenience and technology features, including a revised infotainment system, additional USB ports, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat on certain trim levels. Additionally, Toyota introduced a new TRD Pro trim level, which featured a unique exterior design, suspension upgrades, and a range of off-road-focused features.
The updates and changes made to the 2019 Tacoma were designed to improve its overall competitiveness in the mid-size pickup truck market, while also enhancing its off-road capability and towing capacity. For example, the revised suspension and steering systems helped to improve the Tacoma’s on-road handling and stability, while the updated infotainment system provided a more intuitive and user-friendly interface. Overall, the changes made to the 2019 Tacoma helped to cement its position as a top contender in its class, with a unique blend of ruggedness, versatility, and everyday practicality.
How did the 2019 Toyota Tacoma perform off-road?
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma was widely praised for its exceptional off-road capability, with a range of features and technologies designed to enhance its performance in challenging terrain. The Tacoma’s rugged design, high ground clearance, and generous approach and departure angles helped it to navigate steep inclines and rocky trails with ease. Additionally, the Tacoma’s available four-wheel-drive system and locking rear differential provided added traction and control, allowing it to tackle even the most demanding off-road environments.
In terms of specific off-road features, the 2019 Tacoma offered a range of options, including a multi-mode four-wheel-drive system, crawl control, and a locking rear differential. The Tacoma’s TRD Pro trim level also featured a unique suspension system, which included FOX shocks and a range of other upgrades designed to enhance its off-road performance. Overall, the 2019 Tacoma’s off-road capability was among the best in its class, making it an excellent choice for buyers who need a vehicle that can handle challenging terrain with confidence and ease.
What were the available engine options for the 2019 Toyota Tacoma?
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma was available with two engine options: a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine, which produced 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-liter V6 engine, which produced 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. The four-cylinder engine was available on lower trim levels, while the V6 engine was standard on higher trim levels, including the TRD Pro. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, although a six-speed manual transmission was also available on certain trim levels.
In terms of performance, the 3.5-liter V6 engine was the clear winner, providing brisk acceleration and ample towing capacity. The V6 engine was capable of towing up to 6,800 pounds, making it an excellent choice for buyers who need to haul trailers or boats. The four-cylinder engine, on the other hand, was better suited for lighter-duty applications, such as commuting or running errands around town. Overall, the available engine options provided a good range of choices for buyers, depending on their specific needs and preferences.
What safety features were available on the 2019 Toyota Tacoma?
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma was available with a range of safety features, including a rearview camera, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross traffic alert. The Tacoma also featured a suite of standard airbags, including dual front airbags, front seat-mounted airbags, and side curtain airbags. Additionally, the Tacoma was equipped with electronic stability control and traction control, which helped to improve its overall stability and control on the road.
In terms of advanced safety features, the 2019 Tacoma offered a range of options, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking. The Tacoma’s TRD Pro trim level also featured a unique set of safety features, including a set of off-road-focused cameras that provided a 360-degree view of the vehicle’s surroundings. Overall, the available safety features helped to make the 2019 Tacoma a safe and secure choice for buyers, with a range of technologies designed to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a crash.
How did the 2019 Toyota Tacoma compare to its competitors?
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma competed in the mid-size pickup truck market, where it faced stiff competition from a range of rivals, including the Chevrolet Colorado, Ford Ranger, and Nissan Frontier. In terms of overall capability and versatility, the Tacoma was generally considered to be one of the top contenders in its class, with a unique blend of ruggedness, reliability, and everyday practicality. The Tacoma’s available four-wheel-drive system, locking rear differential, and range of off-road-focused features helped to set it apart from its competitors, making it an excellent choice for buyers who need a vehicle that can handle challenging terrain.
In terms of specific comparisons, the 2019 Tacoma was generally considered to be more rugged and off-road-capable than the Chevrolet Colorado and Ford Ranger, although these vehicles offered more refined on-road manners and better fuel economy. The Nissan Frontier, on the other hand, was an older design that lacked the Tacoma’s advanced safety features and modern infotainment technology. Overall, the 2019 Tacoma was a top contender in its class, with a unique set of strengths and weaknesses that made it an attractive choice for buyers who value ruggedness, reliability, and off-road capability.
What was the resale value of the 2019 Toyota Tacoma?
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma was known for its excellent resale value, with a range of factors contributing to its strong retention of value over time. According to various studies and analyses, the Tacoma was one of the top vehicles in its class for resale value, with some trim levels retaining as much as 60-70% of their original purchase price after three years of ownership. This was due in part to the Tacoma’s reputation for reliability and durability, as well as its popularity among outdoor enthusiasts and off-road enthusiasts.
In terms of specific resale value metrics, the 2019 Tacoma was generally considered to be one of the best vehicles in its class, with a range of trim levels and options available to suit different budgets and preferences. The Tacoma’s TRD Pro trim level, for example, was particularly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, and tended to retain its value particularly well. Overall, the 2019 Tacoma’s excellent resale value made it an attractive choice for buyers who plan to keep their vehicle for an extended period, or who want to minimize their depreciation losses over time.