The Toyota Tacoma has long been a staple in the mid-size pickup truck market, known for its durability, reliability, and off-road prowess. As we delve into the specifics of the 2021 model year, it’s essential to consider whether this particular year stands out as a good choice for potential buyers. In this article, we’ll explore the features, upgrades, and changes that the 2021 Toyota Tacoma brings to the table, as well as any potential drawbacks or concerns.
Introduction to the 2021 Toyota Tacoma
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma is part of the third generation of Tacomas, which was introduced in 2016. This generation has seen incremental updates and improvements over the years, with the 2021 model being no exception. Toyota’s commitment to quality and customer feedback has led to numerous enhancements, making the 2021 Tacoma a compelling option for those in the market for a capable and versatile pickup truck.
Design and Features
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma boasts a rugged and imposing exterior design, with a distinctive front grille, LED headlights, and a choice of sixdifferent trim levels: SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro. The interior has also seen significant upgrades, with premium materials, a modern infotainment system, and ample storage space. Notable features include a 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a range of driver assistance technologies, such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.
Performance and Capability
Under the hood, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma offers a choice of two engines: a 2.7-liter four-cylinder and a 3.5-liter V6. The V6 engine, in particular, provides impressive power and torque, making it well-suited for towing and hauling heavy loads. With a maximum towing capacity of up to 6,800 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of up to 1,685 pounds, the 2021 Tacoma is more than capable of handling demanding tasks. Additionally, the truck’s four-wheel-drive system and available crawl control feature make it an excellent choice for off-road enthusiasts.
Towing and Hauling
For those who plan to use their Tacoma for towing or hauling, the 2021 model year offers a range of convenient features, including a Class-IV towing hitch and a 7-pin wiring harness. The truck’s integrated trailer brake controller also helps to ensure safe and stable towing, even in challenging conditions.
Reliability and Durability
Toyota is renowned for its reputation for building reliable and durable vehicles, and the 2021 Tacoma is no exception. Toyota’s comprehensive warranty program, which includes a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, provides added peace of mind for owners. Additionally, the Tacoma’s rigorous testing and validation process helps to ensure that the truck can withstand the rigors of daily use and harsh environments.
Maintenance and Repair
As with any vehicle, regular maintenance is essential to extending the life of the 2021 Toyota Tacoma. Scheduled maintenance should be performed at recommended intervals, and any issues or concerns should be addressed promptly. The truck’s easy-to-access components and simple design make it relatively straightforward to perform routine maintenance tasks, such as oil changes and tire rotations.
Safety Features and Ratings
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma has an impressive array of safety features, including eight airbags, electronic stability control, and a rearview camera. The truck has also earned a 4-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and is a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These ratings are a testament to the Tacoma’s excellent safety credentials and provide added confidence for drivers and passengers.
Driver Assistance Technologies
The 2021 Tacoma offers a range of driver assistance technologies, including blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and lane departure warning. These features help to enhance safety and reduce the risk of accidents, making the truck an excellent choice for daily driving and long road trips.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma is an excellent choice for those in the market for a reliable, capable, and feature-packed mid-size pickup truck. With its impressive performance, outstanding safety features, and durability, the 2021 Tacoma is well-suited to a wide range of applications, from daily commuting to off-road adventures. While there may be some minor drawbacks, such as a slightly firm ride and limited interior space, the truck’s numerous strengths make it a compelling option for potential buyers. As the pickups truck market continues to evolve, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma remains a top contender, and its reputation as a good year is well-deserved.
The following table provides a summary of the key features and specifications of the 2021 Toyota Tacoma:
| Trim Level | Engine | Towing Capacity | Payload Capacity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SR | 2.7L 4-cylinder | up to 3,500 lbs | up to 1,685 lbs | $26,050 |
| SR5 | 2.7L 4-cylinder or 3.5L V6 | up to 6,800 lbs | up to 1,685 lbs | $27,940 |
| TRD Sport | 3.5L V6 | up to 6,800 lbs | up to 1,685 lbs | $32,120 |
| TRD Off-Road | 3.5L V6 | up to 6,800 lbs | up to 1,685 lbs | $34,000 |
| Limited | 3.5L V6 | up to 6,800 lbs | up to 1,685 lbs | $38,790 |
| TRD Pro | 3.5L V6 | up to 6,800 lbs | up to 1,685 lbs | $44,175 |
Ultimately, whether the 2021 Toyota Tacoma is a good year for you will depend on your specific needs and priorities. However, with its impressive capabilities, outstanding safety features, and reputation for reliability, the 2021 Tacoma is certainly an excellent choice to consider.
What are the key features of the 2021 Toyota Tacoma?
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma is a versatile and reliable mid-size pickup truck that offers a range of key features. It comes in six trim levels, including the SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro. Each trim level provides a unique set of features, such as a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine, a robust suspension system, and advanced technology features like a touchscreen display and Bluetooth connectivity. The Tacoma also boasts an impressive towing capacity of up to 6,800 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 1,685 pounds.
In addition to its impressive performance capabilities, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma also prioritizes safety and comfort. It features a range of standard safety features, including a rearview camera, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The Tacoma also offers a range of comfort and convenience features, such as heated seats, a moonroof, and a premium JBL audio system. With its rugged design and impressive features, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma is an excellent choice for anyone in the market for a reliable and capable pickup truck.
How does the 2021 Toyota Tacoma perform off-road?
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma is well-known for its exceptional off-road capabilities, making it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure-seekers. The truck features a range of off-road-focused features, including a robust four-wheel-drive system, a locking rear differential, and a multi-mode traction control system. The Tacoma also boasts an impressive approach and departure angle, allowing it to navigate challenging terrain with ease. With its powerful engine and advanced suspension system, the Tacoma can handle everything from rocky trails to sandy dunes with confidence and precision.
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma also offers a range of trim levels that are specifically designed for off-road use, including the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro. These trim levels feature unique off-road-focused features, such as a specially tuned suspension system, a hood scoop, and a set of durable off-road wheels and tires. The TRD Pro trim level also features a range of premium off-road features, including a unique cat-back exhaust system, a set of Rigid Industries fog lights, and a special off-road mode that allows the driver to customize the truck’s performance for specific terrain types.
What are the fuel economy ratings for the 2021 Toyota Tacoma?
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma offers a range of fuel economy ratings, depending on the trim level and drivetrain configuration. The base SR trim level with a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine and rear-wheel drive has an estimated EPA rating of 18 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. The more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine, which is available on higher trim levels, has an estimated EPA rating of 18 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway with rear-wheel drive, and 17 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway with four-wheel drive.
In addition to its impressive fuel economy ratings, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma also features a range of fuel-saving technologies, including a variable valve timing system and a advanced combustion system. The truck also features a large 21-gallon fuel tank, allowing drivers to enjoy longer road trips without the need for frequent fill-ups. With its impressive fuel economy ratings and advanced fuel-saving technologies, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a fuel-efficient pickup truck that can handle a range of tasks and activities.
What safety features are available on the 2021 Toyota Tacoma?
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma prioritizes safety, with a range of standard and available safety features designed to protect drivers and passengers. Standard safety features include a rearview camera, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and a set of advanced airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag and a passenger seat cushion airbag. The Tacoma also offers a range of available safety features, including blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and a panoramic view monitor that provides a 360-degree view of the truck’s surroundings.
In addition to its impressive safety features, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma also boasts a robust and durable design, with a strong body and frame that are designed to absorb and distribute crash energy. The truck also features a range of advanced safety technologies, including a traction control system and an electronic stability control system, which help to improve traction and stability on a range of road surfaces. With its comprehensive range of safety features and robust design, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a safe and reliable pickup truck.
How does the 2021 Toyota Tacoma compare to its competitors?
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma is a highly competitive mid-size pickup truck that offers a range of unique features and capabilities. Compared to its competitors, such as the Chevrolet Colorado and the Ford Ranger, the Tacoma boasts a more powerful engine, a more advanced four-wheel-drive system, and a more comprehensive range of standard safety features. The Tacoma also offers a more premium interior, with a range of advanced technology features and comfort amenities, such as a touchscreen display, heated seats, and a premium audio system.
In terms of off-road capability, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma is also highly competitive, with a range of unique features and technologies that are designed to improve traction and stability on challenging terrain. The truck’s robust suspension system, locking rear differential, and multi-mode traction control system make it an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure-seekers. With its impressive performance capabilities, advanced safety features, and premium interior, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma is an excellent choice for anyone in the market for a mid-size pickup truck that can handle a range of tasks and activities.
Is the 2021 Toyota Tacoma reliable?
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma is known for its exceptional reliability, with a range of features and technologies that are designed to improve durability and reduce maintenance costs. The truck’s robust engine, transmission, and drivetrain are all designed to withstand the rigors of heavy use, and its advanced materials and manufacturing processes help to reduce the risk of corrosion and wear. The Tacoma also features a comprehensive warranty program, with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, providing owners with added peace of mind and protection.
In addition to its impressive reliability, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma also boasts a range of maintenance-friendly features, such as a easily accessible engine compartment and a simple, intuitive maintenance schedule. The truck’s advanced technology features, such as its touchscreen display and Bluetooth connectivity, are also designed to be easy to use and maintain, reducing the risk of technical issues and downtime. With its exceptional reliability, comprehensive warranty program, and maintenance-friendly design, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a pickup truck that can provide years of trouble-free service and enjoyment.
What is the resale value of the 2021 Toyota Tacoma?
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma is known for its exceptional resale value, with a range of features and technologies that are designed to improve durability and reduce depreciation. The truck’s robust engine, transmission, and drivetrain, combined with its advanced materials and manufacturing processes, help to reduce the risk of wear and tear, and its comprehensive warranty program provides owners with added peace of mind and protection. According to industry estimates, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma is expected to retain up to 70% of its original purchase price after three years, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a pickup truck that can hold its value over time.
In addition to its impressive resale value, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma also boasts a range of features and technologies that are designed to improve its overall ownership experience. The truck’s advanced safety features, premium interior, and comprehensive warranty program all contribute to its exceptional resale value, making it an excellent choice for anyone in the market for a mid-size pickup truck. With its exceptional reliability, comprehensive warranty program, and impressive resale value, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a pickup truck that can provide years of trouble-free service and enjoyment, while also holding its value over time.