2009 Toyota Tacoma Base RWD Automatic

Model Highlights

Toyota Tacomas are well-regarded in the mid-size pickup segment, as evidenced by their traditionally strong resale values. For 2009, all three of the typical pickup body styles are offered: regular cab, Access Cab (extended cab), and Double Cab (crew cab). All body types are available with a 6-foot composite bed, and the Double Cabs also offer a shorter 5-foot bed. Model offerings range from the workaday 4-cylinder 2-wheel-drive regular cab, starting at about 15,000, all the way up to the V6 4-wheel-drive Double Cab that can be optioned north of $32,000. Within that range, there's something for nearly everyone with an interest in this size pickup. The 159-horsepower, 2.7L 4-cylinder versions are available with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission; regular cabs are only available with the 4-cylinder. The 236-horsepower 4.0L V6 is available with either a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. After its redesign in 2005, the Tacoma got substantially larger, moving firmly into mid-sized pick-up territory. For a truck of this size, an impressive 6,500 pounds can be towed behind a properly configured and equipped V6 drivetrain. Toyota has created over 50 model and option choices that allow buyers to configure their truck with either an on-road or off-road personality to taste. The PreRunner versions add such add-ons as raised ride height, a front skid plate and mud and snow tires to create a 4-wheel-drive look on lower-cost 2-wheel drivetrain. PreRunner versions of all body types are available. The X-Runner goes in a completely different direction, adding a more rigid and lowered suspension, 18-inch wheels with low-profile tires, a hood scoop and other styling and performance enhancements as befit a street performance machine. The X-Runner is availably only in a 2-wheel-drive V6 Access Cab version with a 6-speed manual transmission. The main option packages carry these themes further. The SR5 package adds many of the usual cosmetic and comfort improvements, including chrome exterior accents, upgraded seat fabric, a leather steering wheel, remote keyless entry, cruise control and more. Toyota Racing Development (TRD) packages are available in both Off-Road and Sport versions. The Off-Road package takes the SR5 package and adds sport seats, off-road suspension with Bilstein shock absorbers and progressive-rate front springs, 16-inch aluminum wheels, a locking rear differential, and skid plates. The Sport package is similar, but substitutes a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch aluminum wheels and a limited-slip differential. Both TRD packages add a 115V/400W power outlet in the bed and fog lamps. Standard safety features on all models are anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist, dual front passenger airbags, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), a limited-slip differential, active front headrests, and roll-sensing curtain and side seat airbags.