The Entry Level 2023 Toyota Tacoma Is Surprisingly Cheap
If you want to save a little, then consider the Toyota Tacoma. It has the lowest starting price out of every mid-size truck available. It’s even cheaper than the old Ford Ranger. Let’s see what comes with the standard 2023 Toyota Tacoma.
How much does the 2023 Toyota Tacoma cost?
The 2023 Toyota Tacoma price starts at $27,250. According to Cars.com, it’s the cheapest mid-size truck you can buy. The 2023 Ford Ranger isn’t far behind, with a starting cost of about $27,400.
These prices are the MSRPs, though, so they don’t include the destination fees or dealership markups. Also, the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz are cheaper, but they’re tiny trucks.
Mid-size trucks have an advantage because they have more passenger space and more towing power while still being easy to maneuver in tight city areas. Larger trucks could include more value too. Let’s see what comes with the Toyota Tacoma SR.
What comes standard with the Toyota Tacoma SR?
The 2023 Toyota Tacoma SR kicks things off with the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that cranks out 159 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. This engine is adequate, but we recommend upgrading to the 3.5-liter V6 unit for 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque.
The entry-level 2023 Tacoma rides on 16-inch steel wheels, has a sliding rear window, a tough composite bed that doesn’t need a liner, heated power-adjustable side mirrors, movable bed cleats, a 7-inch touchscreen, a six-speaker audio system, three USB ports, satellite radio, a Wi-fi hotspot, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
Upgrading to the V6 engine adds remote vehicle locking/unlocking, and dual-zone automatic climate control.
Standard safety features include forward collision mitigation, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
While the composite bed and cleats provide more functionality, it’s a bit cheap to limit remote functions to the V6 engine. Also, rivals tend to include more safety features such as blind spot warning and lane-keeping assistance.
Adding the V6 engine and 4WD takes the MSRP up to $34,730, which includes the $1,215 destination fee. But if you don’t need 4×4 or extra power, then you can save.
Upgrading to higher trim levels provides access to a power sliding rear window, built-in navigation, a 120-volt outlet in the bed, a sunroof, leather upholstery, a suspension lift, all-terrain tires, Bilstein dampers, a wireless phone charging pad, locking rear differential, and 360-degree camera system.
Is the 2023 Toyota Tacoma worth buying?
Yes, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma is an excellent truck to consider. It’s durable, long-lasting, capable, and has a solid resale value. It provides a smooth ride with enough comfort and engagement for daily driving.
The Tacoma is mostly unmatched when it comes to off-roading, but the Jeep Gladiator is giving it a run for its money. However, it costs less than the Gladiator and has a higher reliability ranking.
The TRD Pro is hard to beat with its off-road tuned suspension, Fox shock absorbers, all-terrain tires, skid plates, improved approach and departure angles, upgraded exhaust, and multi-terrain monitor.
While the Tacoma serves as a pretty great deal, the entry-level price feels a bit misleading. The V6 engine and 4×4 seem like necessary additions.
