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You'll wonder why it's called a compact. Toyota's sixth-generation compact pickup truck, named Tacoma, looks big and drives bigger. Equipped with the available Xtracab, a Tacoma measures 199 inches in length--five inches longer than a full-size Chevy (with standard cab, shortbed). The SR-5 V6 Xtracab I drove was rated to haul 1,700 pounds, and to tow 5,000 pounds. Its horsepower won't help clarify the matter. The V6 produces 190 hp and 220 foot-pounds of torque. So equipped, the Tacoma out-accelerates compact six-cylinder competitors including Ford Ranger and Chevy S-10. Even with the 2.4 liter four-cylinder, the Tacoma beats six-cylinder Rangers and S-10s from zero to 60, Toyota claims. I once owned an ancestor of the Tacoma. My '76 Toyota pickup was a specimen of the now-deceased "mini-truck" genre. I sold it with more than 200,000 miles on it, and it still ran great. Moving from that vehicle into a full-size truck seemed like going from high school to college. The difference in overall feel was tremendous--but no more. Modern compacts are made to look and feel like their full-size brothers. The Tacoma acts tough; its ride might be considered harsh. Off-road, it offers a serious dual-range transfer case. The V6 engine is so torquey at the low end, and the clutch travel is so lengthy, that second gear often seems preferable for standing starts. Using four-wheel drive creates a good deal of binding and grinding, unlike the genteel "all-wheel drive" systems of sport-utility vehicles. To me, the power door locks were a source of annoyance. I repeatedly guessed wrong on which way to throw the switch to open the door, while my passenger stood outside shivering. The 4WD Tacoma's step-up height is a lofty 23 inches; even higher with the optional off-road package. Your second question will regard the Tacoma's price, and value. The SR-5 V6 Xtracab test truck stickered at a whopping $22,228, plus nearly $4,000 for options including antilock brakes and air conditioning. Bottom line was $25,988. That kind of dough could buy two base-model Chevy S-10s at $11,270 apiece. (True, the base Tacoma starts out with relative modesty too, at $12,028; but upgrading inflates the Toyota's price much faster.) Like other Toyota devotees, Tacoma buyers must be prepared to pay the "Toyota premium": a higher-than-expected price for unmatched quality, assured reliability, and a generous trade-in allowance. It's a price few choose to pay; Detroit still sells dozens of light trucks for every one sold by Japanese makers. Those who go with the Tacoma, however, may see their odometer hit the 200,000-mile mark after others have bought their second truck, or their third. Engines: 2.4 liter four-cyl., 142 hp.
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