Toyota Tacoma Evolution: 1995 to 2021

The Toyota Tacoma has been the top seller among midsize pickup trucks since 2008. Over the years, it has evolved from a basic work truck to boulder-bashing off-roaders and even quasi-luxury models. It comes in different body styles:

  • Access Cab: Rear-hinged rear doors and folding jump seats

  • Double Cab: Four regular doors and a three-seat rear bench

If you’re planning to buy a used Toyota Tacoma but aren’t sure which model year to choose, this timeline will help you understand how the Tacoma has evolved over three generations.

Toyota Tacoma Evolution

First Generation: 1995–2004

The first-generation Toyota Tacoma debuted in 1995, marking Toyota’s entry into the midsize pickup market. Key highlights included:

  • Compact-sized regular and extended cab (Xtracab) styles

  • Two four-cylinder engines plus a V-6 option

  • Available four-wheel drive

  • Coil spring, double-wishbone front suspension

  • 6.2-foot cargo bed

Second Generation: 2005–2015

Redesigned in 2005, the Tacoma became larger and more powerful with midsize dimensions. Key features included:

  • Muscular styling, longer wheelbase, wider track

  • Regular Cab, Access Cab, and Double Cab styles

  • Four-cylinder or larger, more powerful V-6

  • Stability control, front side-impact airbags, and curtain airbags

The lineup was refreshed in 2012, and the Regular Cab was discontinued after 2014.

Notable Model Features:

  • 2015: New TRD Pro Series version, two cab styles, manual or automatic

  • 2014: Entune multimedia system, T|X and T|X Pro Off-Road packages

  • 2012: Exterior and interior refresh, Entune multimedia system

  • 2010: Standard side-impact airbags, limited-slip differential, available backup camera

Third Generation: 2016–2021

The 2016 redesign brought significant updates, including aggressive new styling, a new V-6 engine, six-speed automatic, and stronger steel for the frame. Safety and technology improvements followed in later years:

  • 2016: New 3.5L V-6, updated suspension, TRD trims, retuned interior

  • 2017: TRD Pro off-road version, GoPro mount on windshield (compare 2016 vs 2017)

  • 2018: Active safety features standard, TRD Pro version

  • 2020: Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, emergency braking, multiple cab and drivetrain options

By 2021, the Tacoma remained a leader in the midsize pickup segment, with options ranging from everyday workhorse to fully off-road-ready models. Check 2021 Tacoma prices here.

Buying a Used Toyota Tacoma

As a leading used Toyota Tacoma dealership in Long Beach and Southern California, Car Plus Finance offers different model years with financing options through our finance department. Get pre-approved with our credit application today, or contact us for more details.

Sources