Toyota Tacoma (2025)

Duncan Brady from MotorTrend highlights the 2025 Toyota Tacoma as a significant step forward from its predecessor, praising its modern design, updated tech, and improved powertrains that deliver smooth, torque-rich performance. The reviewer appreciates the refined coil-sprung rear suspension for a more comfortable ride and notes the truck’s versatility across trims, especially for off-road enthusiasts with models like the TRD Pro and Trailhunter. However, Brady points out some lingering drawbacks, including a cramped rear seat, certain off-road limitations such as the inability to mount 35-inch tires without modification, and the absence of an Auto 4WD mode. The review also cautions that prices escalate quickly with higher trims. Overall, the Tacoma is seen as a more competitive midsize pickup with thoughtful updates, though buyers should weigh the cost against the improvements and consider their specific needs when choosing among the many available trims.

David Gluckman from Car and Driver highlights the 2025 Toyota Tacoma as a well-rounded mid-size pickup that builds on its legacy with meaningful improvements in comfort, technology, and off-road capability. He praises the refined ride quality—especially on coil-spring models—and the powerful turbocharged engines that deliver confident on-road and trail performance. The interior upgrades, including a raised seating position, larger digital displays, and modern infotainment, enhance driver experience significantly. While fuel economy gains are modest compared to the previous generation, the Tacoma remains competitive with a strong towing and payload capacity. Gluckman notes the wide range of trims and configurations, recommending the SR5 for value and the TRD Off-Road for rugged appeal. Minor updates for 2025 and the availability of lightly used models suggest buyers have flexible options. Overall, the Tacoma earns a spot on the Editors’ Choice list, balancing traditional toughness with modern refinement and safety features, though some rivals also offer compelling alternatives.

Blair Travers from U.S. News & World Report highlights the 2025 Toyota Tacoma as a versatile and well-rounded compact truck that excels in off-road capability and everyday utility. Praising its refined suspension, comfortable front seats, and potent engine options—including a strong hybrid powertrain—the review emphasizes the Tacoma’s smooth ride and excellent steering feedback, especially in higher trims like the TRD Pro and Trailhunter. The interior is noted for its modern design and quality materials, making it arguably best in class, though rear-seat space remains tight, a common limitation in this segment. While the infotainment system is straightforward, it lacks the polish of some competitors. Pricing is a consideration, with top trims approaching the cost of larger trucks. Overall, Travers regards the Tacoma as the best in its generation, balancing ruggedness, comfort, and value, earning it the 2025 Best Midsize Pickup Truck for the Money award, though alternatives like the Chevrolet Colorado and Honda Ridgeline are suggested for those prioritizing interior space or fuel economy.

Andrew Ganz from The Car Connection highlights the 2025 Toyota Tacoma as a versatile and capable midsize truck with a broad lineup, strong turbocharged and hybrid powertrains, and notable off-road prowess. The review praises Toyota’s attention to offering numerous configurations tailored to different needs and budgets, with the TRD Off-Road and Trailhunter trims standing out for specialized off-road and overlanding features. While the Tacoma impresses with solid ride comfort, practical ergonomics, and a well-assembled interior, the cabin styling is described as overwrought and lacking luxury, especially given the high price tags that can approach $65,000. The truck’s towing capacity is modest for the segment, and the NHTSA’s three-star frontal crash rating raises safety concerns despite good IIHS results. Fuel economy is decent but not exceptional, even for the hybrid models. Overall, the Tacoma earns a fair 6.3/10 rating, recommended most strongly in mid-range trims like the SR5 and TRD Sport for balanced value and capability.

Benjamin Zhang from Business Insider highlights that the 2025 Toyota Tacoma is a significant improvement over previous generations, boasting more power, advanced tech, and enhanced driving dynamics. The introduction of a turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid powertrain delivers robust performance and respectable fuel economy without sacrificing the traditional truck feel. The TRD Pro trim impresses with specialized off-road features and innovative comfort elements like the IsoDynamic front seats. The cabin is notably upgraded with a stylish, tech-rich interior that remains user-friendly. However, Zhang expresses concern that the Tacoma’s increased luxury and price may dilute the no-nonsense reliability and affordability that made it a beloved best-seller for two decades. While praising the truck’s versatility and improvements, he worries that loyal customers might be alienated by the shift toward premium features and higher costs. Overall, the review conveys a cautiously positive sentiment, appreciating the Tacoma’s evolution but lamenting the potential loss of its original character.