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Toyota Tacoma: generations from 1995, engines and trims
The Toyota Tacoma is a mid-size pickup that has been produced for the North American market since 1995. It is not officially sold in Lithuania, so you'll only find imported vehicles here. We'll look at the generations, engines, trims, and buying advice.
Tacoma in brief
The Tacoma is one of the most popular mid-size pickups in North America. It's renowned for its reliability, off-road capability, and strong resale value.
The closest model in Europe is the Hilux, but the Tacoma is different: more compact and designed for the American market with its own range of engines and trims.
Which generation to choose
The first generation (1995–2004) and second generation (2005–2015) are the cheapest in the used market, but frame corrosion is a well-known issue with older models, so their condition needs to be carefully assessed.
The third generation (N300, 2016–2023) is more modern, with an improved interior and advanced driver-assistance systems. It's one of the most popular in the used market today.
The fourth generation (N400, from 2024) features a new platform, turbo engines, and a hybrid version. There are few in the used market so far.
Engines and transmissions
Second generation: 2.7-litre four-cylinder (around 159 hp) and 4.0-litre V6 (around 236 hp). Third generation: 2.7-litre four-cylinder (around 159 hp) and 3.5-litre V6 (around 278 hp), with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
Fourth generation: 2.4-litre turbo four-cylinder (around 228–278 hp) and i-FORCE MAX hybrid (around 326 hp), with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and manual gearbox in some versions. Drive: rear-wheel or 4×4.
What to check when buying a used Tacoma
Always check for frame and body corrosion, especially in older generations. This issue was widely discussed in North America and some frames were replaced under the manufacturer's program.
Test the 4×4 system and gearbox. Check if the vehicle wasn't used for heavy-duty work or towing, and if there's no suspension or brake wear.
For an imported car, check the history, mileage, and active recall programs via the VIN.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most commonly found trims.
SR
N300, N400Base trim for work.
- Often comes with basic alloy wheels
- Standard multimedia
- Standard safety features
SR5
N300, N400Popular version with more comfort.
- Often features lightweight alloy wheels
- More comfortable interior
- Often — additional safety systems
TRD Sport
N300, N400A sportier version.
- Sporty interior and suspension
- Often — larger alloy wheels
- Often — sport seats
TRD Off-Road
N300, N400Rear-wheel drive-oriented version.
- Stiffer suspension and safety
- Often — rear-wheel drive tyres
- Often — additional rear-wheel drive modes
Limited
N300, N400The top luxury trim.
- Single-tone interior, heated seats
- Often — high-end sound system
- Advanced safety systems
TRD Pro
N300, N400The ultimate rear-wheel drive version.
- Special dampers
- Distinctive interior
- Often — additional safety
Trim comparison
| SR5 | TRD Sport | TRD Off-Road | Limited | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | Daily driving | Sporty looks | For the track | For comfort |
| Wheels (most often) | 16–17 in. | 17–18 in. | 16–17 in. | 18 in. |
| Interior | Standard | Sporty details | More robust interior | Cab |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€ | €€ | €€€ | €€€ |
For most buyers, the SR5 or TRD Off-Road is the best choice depending on needs. The Limited is worth considering for comfort, the TRD Pro for off-roading.
Pros
- Reliable tech and strong off-road capability
- Holds its value well
- Wide range of trim levels
- Solid build quality
Cons
- Not officially sold in Lithuania — only available through import
- Earlier generations may have frame rust
- High fuel consumption
Frequently asked questions
Is the Tacoma the same as the Hilux?
No. The Tacoma is the North American market model, while the Hilux is global. They are similar in purpose but differ technically.
Which Tacoma generation is the best?
Most buyers favour the third generation (N300), as it's more modern and widely available. The fourth generation is newer, but still pricier.
Does the Tacoma have a diesel engine?
The Tacoma didn't offer a diesel in the North American market; it came with petrol engines, and the fourth generation includes a hybrid option.
Updated 2026-10-14 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
