NEW FOR 2008:

Click image to enlarge Images courtesy: Toyota

- Base Access Cab "B" Package adds air conditioning

For 2008, the Toyota Tacoma mid-size pickup truck is virtually unchanged from the 2007 models.

The Tacoma is available in Access Cab or Double Cab configuration (a regular-cab model sold in the U.S. is not available in Canada); the Access Cab is available in two- or four-wheel drive models, while the Double Cab is four-wheel drive only. The Access Cab uses a six-foot bed, while the Double Cab can be ordered with a five- or six-foot box.

The 4x2 Access Cab uses a 2.7-litre four-cylinder engine, with five-speed manual transmission or optional four-speed automatic; the sportier 4x2 Access X-Runner uses a 4.0-litre V6 that comes only with a six-speed manual transmission. All 4x4 models use the 4.0-litre, with six-speed manual or five-speed automatic on the Access Cab, and automatic transmission on the Double Cab.

Features on the Access Cab 4x2 include 15-inch steel wheels, anti-lock brakes, CD stereo, front cloth bucket seats, foldable rear-seat cushions, tilt and telescopic wheel, floor mats, front tow hook, rear step bumper, removable tailgate, composite cargo bed, and two-speed wipers.

The Access Cab 4x2 X-Runner adds 18-inch alloy wheels, limited-slip differential, six-CD stereo with wheel-mounted controls, air conditioning, front sport seats, power locks with keyless entry, power windows, sliding rear window, leather-wrapped wheel, cruise control, power mirrors, privacy glass, 115-volt outlet in the cargo bed, variable intermittent wipers, fog lamps, and appearance package of coloured bumpers, hood scoop, side skirts and chrome tailpipe.

Features on the Access Cab 4x4 are similar to the 4x2 model, but with the addition of 16-inch steel wheels and air conditioning.

Features on the Double Cab 4x4 include 16-inch steel wheels, air conditioning, CD stereo, cloth seats, 60/40 fold-down rear seat, power locks with keyless entry, tilt and telescopic wheel, floor mats, front tow hook, power mirrors, and two-speed wipers.

Depending on the model, packages of power accessories, and off-road plus tow packages are available.

Styled like a larger truck, courtesy of Toyota's Hino division, the Tacoma presents a muscular appearance that's tempered by a smooth ride and comfortable interior. All models come with a composite cargo box that's more resistant to impact damage and rust than a conventional steel box. The base models make good, inexpensive work trucks, while the sporty X-Runner is an accessorized tuner truck right out of the box.