2022 Toyota Tacoma

The 2022 Toyota Tacoma has a wide trim line, which includes TRD specific variants too. The TRD trims are better suited to hardcore off-roading since they are built to meet those needs. The trim levels are SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, Trail Edition, and TRD Pro. Prices for Toyota Tacoma Double Cab models start at $27,230 and rise as trim levels increase. The regular Tacoma comes in SR, SR5, and Limited trims.

The SR and SR5 trims are equipped with an Inline-4 engine and RWD as standard. The V6 engine is also available in base trims, but it is a standard option on the Limited trim. A few notable things about the Toyota Tacoma include its 2.5-inch internal bypass shocks, an electronic rear differential lock, leather-upholstered seats, and 18-inch alloy wheels.

*Expected prices are mentioned

Which Trim should you buy?

We would recommend you to opt for the SR5 with the optional V6 and AWD drivetrain to get the most value for money. Moreover, it unlocks additional packages like the Dynamic Navigation package, which adds a Navigation system and Rear parking sensors, Trail Special Edition package, which includes all-terrain tires, unique seat trim, all-weather floor mats, a 120-volt outlet in bed, and locking storage bins in bed.

Release Date 

We haven't received any update from Toyota until now about the release date of the 2022 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab, but we can expect it to be released in the fall of 2021.

The 2022 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab will come with the same engine options as its outgoing MY. In addition to the 2.7L Inline-4, a 3.5L V6 engine will be available as an option. The 2.7L I-4 engine makes 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, which is very low compared to its competition. Alternatively, you can opt for the available V6, which produces 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission transfers power from the engine to the rear wheels as standard. However, you can opt for the AWD drivetrain configuration with the available V6 engines. Moreover, the TRD Sport trim also offers a 6-speed manual gearbox.

These figures are still slightly less than other competitors, but this has been the case with Tacoma for quite a long time now. Because of this reason, Tacoma stands slightly behind its competition when it comes to acceleration. It can sprint from 0-60 MPH in 9.4 secs with an Inline-4 engine, whereas the V6 engine helps it cover the same in 7.7 secs. Towing and payload capacities of the 2022 Tacoma stand at 6,800 lbs and 1,505 lbs, respectively. These figures are disappointing as it lacks the main factor that distinguishes pickup trucks from other cars.

*2021 MY data used for reference

Driving a Tacoma Double Cab is quite enjoyable. It has a lightweight steering wheel that makes driving on and off the road simple. The engine power seems adequate for average use, but we felt a lack of enthusiasm from its engine to push forward. However, equipping the vehicle with the optional V6 should solve your problem. Besides that, you also have an electronic locking rear differential and an off-road suspension system on the TRD specific trims. 

All trucks in the competition offer a feeble base engine with the exception of the Ford Ranger, which comes with an Ecoboost Inline-4. The Tacoma makes the least power here when equipped with the base engine, while the Ford Ranger has the best power thanks to its turbo mill. The Ford Ranger is also the fastest option here. In terms of acceleration, it can reach 0-60MPH in about 7 seconds, which is 2 seconds faster than the second-best truck here, the GMC Canyon.

The 2022 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab’s base Inline-4 engine is actually not frugal as one expects it to be, even though it is underpowered. A gallon of gas will get you around 19 miles in the city, and 22 miles on the highway. The optional V6 engine returns slightly better fuel economy at 20 MPG in the city, 23 MPG on the highway, and 21 MPG combined. It also has a big fuel tank, measuring 21.1 gallons, but that doesn't help it achieve the best highway range compared to the GM twins.

*2021 MY data used for reference

The Ford Ranger here is the most economical truck in its segment, thanks to its frugal yet powerful Ecoboost engine. But because of its small fuel tank, the Ranger falls short of providing a good range overall. As a whole, the GMC Canyon and Chevy Colorado provide the least fuel economy in the city, but their V6 engines are the best when it comes to highway cruising. They also offer the best highway range at 504 miles on a full tank of 21 gallons.

The majority of truck manufacturers call their interiors "Rugged". However, Toyota took it too seriously and covered its cabin with hard plastic, making it feel cheap. Though it seems okay, it couldn't match the standards set by some of its competitors. There is enough space between the front seats so that the driver and co-passenger can sit peacefully. However, tall passengers would not be able to fit in the rear seats due to their limited space. It feels a bit too upright, which will obviously put some tension in a long ride along with the cramped legroom.

The 2022 Tacoma Double Cab SR5 gets you a power-adjustable driver’s seat but only with the V6. The base trim is bare-bones and comes in cloth upholstery. You don't get many creature comforts here. As you move up the trim level, the options get better. Additionally, the visibility from the inside is fairly good, and there are two armrests along with cup holders for the rear passengers. There are a lot of comfort features available in the top trims of the Tacoma, such as dual-zone automatic climate control, leatherette door trim inserts and leather seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, sunroof, and more. Moreover, Tacoma has a very large cargo area, measuring 56.7 cubic feet, which is the best in its class.

*2021 MY data used for reference

The Toyota Tacoma's front row space is pretty good, but the GMC family's front row is more spacious. There is very little legroom in the rear of the Toyota, and it is not suitable for tall adults. Both Canyon and Colorado have the most rear legroom. The Ford Ranger offers a more balanced offering in the form of better cabin space along with decent cargo space. Standout interior features include:

• 8-way power-adjustable driver seat 
• Dual-zone climate control
• Leather upholstery
• Leatherette door trimming and seats
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel

What’s there to keep you entertained?

The 2022 Tacoma Double Cab has a 7.0-inch touchscreen display in its base configuration, whereas starting from the SR5, you get an 8.0-inch touchscreen display. Also available is a small 2.0-inch driver information display. A total of six speakers will be installed in the cabin, while the top trims will be fitted with premium JBL speakers. Other infotainment features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, Safety Connect, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Hotspot, Navigation, and Wireless Charging. Standout infotainment features include:

• 8.0” touchscreen
• 6 speaker stereo
• Apple Carplay And Android Auto
• Wireless Charging
• Bluetooth
• Wi-Fi Hotspot
• Satellite Radio
• Navigation system

Like any other typical pickup truck, the 2022 Tacoma Double Cab has a very muscular appearance on the outside. Its body dimensions are pretty similar to most of its rivals on the market. In fact, it has the highest ground clearance, making it a good offroader without a doubt. The Base trims come with a fairly basic front grille that looks alright. However, the off-road-specific trims in this case have a honeycomb grille that looks more stylish. 

Halogen headlamps are standard on the front, but LED headlamps are available on the top two trims. The Tacoma's top trim also features a power tilt-and-slide sunroof. Toyota has also offered some special packages to dress its exterior with dark accent colors, adding to its charm. The base model comes with 16.0" steel wheels, while the Limited comes with 18” alloy wheels. The pickup weighs 4,180 lbs and stands 9.1 inches above the ground.

*2021 MY data used for reference

All the trucks in the competition are very similar in terms of their exterior dimensions. There is one advantage for the Tacoma here as it offers a larger ground clearance measuring 9.1". The Ford Ranger SuperCrew sits a little bit wide which explains its massive interior room without compromising on cargo space. The Ford Ranger is also the heaviest truck in its segment, followed by the Tacoma. Standout exterior features include:

• 18-inch alloy wheels
• LED headlights
• Silver grille
• Sunroof
• All-terrain tires
• Chrome exterior trim
• Tough composite bed

The 2022 Tacoma Double Cab is still to undergo the comprehensive safety tests done by NHTSA and IIHS. So let us consider the 2021 MY's safety ratings to get a better understanding of the vehicle. NHTSA gave the 2021 Tacoma a 4-star rating out of five, which isn't the best but it is acceptable. While the IIHS gave it an overall Good score, its headlights and LATCH system were rated as Marginal. Toyota did not hesitate to equip its light-duty pickup truck with the latest and most advanced safety features. These standout safety features of Tacoma are mentioned below:

• Tire Specific Low Tire Pressure Warning
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert 
• Toyota Safety Sense P
• Lane Change Assist Blind Spot
• Blind Spot Monitor 
• Rear Parking Sensors
• Aerial View Camera System
• Driver Monitoring-Alert
• Collision Mitigation-Front
• Lane Departure Warning
• Lane Departure Alert 

2022 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab vs 2022 Chevrolet Colorado Crew Cab

In terms of trucking capabilities and performance, the Chevrolet Colorado outperforms the Toyota Tacoma. The Colorado's interior is again much better with better space for passengers inside. Off-roading is the only segment where the Tacoma Double Cab outperforms Colorado. The Tacoma has good ground clearance as well as multiple features that make it ideal for off-road driving. With better performance, a nicer interior, and most importantly, a better towing and payload capacity, we would rather recommend Chevy Colorado.

2022 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab vs 2022 GMC Canyon Crew Cab

The same comparison can also be applied to the Canyon, as was mentioned above in the Chevy Colorado section. Chevrolet and Canyon are both produced by the same parent company, so their specifications are nearly the same. Once again, the Tacoma is a better off-roader than the Canyon, but that changes with the AT4 package of Canyon. Also, all the other attributes of a truck- comfort, features, and looks, are well met by the Canyon. Therefore, the GMC Canyon is the clear winner here.

2022 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab vs 2022 Ford Ranger SuperCrew

The Ford Ranger SuperCrew may have less ground clearance and off-roading capabilities than the Toyota Tacoma, but it comes with a turbocharged engine that produces a lot more power than the Tacoma. Apart from being the fastest pickup in its class, it is also the most spacious for passengers and has excellent interior details. Its towing capacity is also quite good, as it should be. Furthermore, despite having the most powerful engine and the best acceleration, the Ranger is also the most fuel-efficient in its segment. The Ranger wins the bout without a doubt here.

It's most likely that the 2022 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab will be released by the end of the year. With no major changes to its powertrain or other characteristics, it will still lack in terms of performance and comfort offered by its competitors. In addition to its off-roading capabilities, the Tacoma Double Cab is no doubt very economical. Even so, its competitors offer superior performance, comfort, fuel economy, and towing capacity. Alternatively, we recommend the Ford Ranger SuperCrew or any of the two other rivals from the GMC family.