2018 Toyota Tacoma

1. Rugged utility

The 2018 Tacoma is built to tackle your biggest jobs, whether you need to haul, tow, or a combination of both. When properly equipped, the 2018 Tacoma can tow up to 6,800 pounds.

Meanwhile, its maximum payload is 1,620 pounds—so this truck is capable of hauling heavy equipment, tools, and much more. Its standard composite truck is also tough enough to negate the need for an aftermarket bed liner.

2. Trim options galore

The 2018 Toyota Tacoma is available in six trim configurations, so you can find the option that's best for your needs. There's the base SR, the SR5, the TRD Sport, the TRD Off-Road, the Limited, and the range-topping TRD Pro. Don't need a lot of bells and whistles? The SR5 offers the basics, including cloth seats, a sliding rear window with privacy glass, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Looking for something decked out and ready for adventure? The TRD Pro is equipped with upgraded shocks for greater off-road capabilities, as well as extras like standard four-wheel drive and special interior/exterior styling.

3. Four-wheel drive availability

If you do a lot of off-roading or commute in adverse road conditions, then a midsize truck with four-wheel drive can give you some much needed traction and control behind the wheel. The 2018 Tacoma is available with part- and full-time four-wheel drive systems on many of its trims. The range-topping TRD Pro trim even comes standard with four-wheel drive, although rear-wheel drive options are available on most trim configurations.

4. Available V6 engine

Although a 2.7L four-cylinder engine is standard on many of the 2018 Tacoma's trims, a more powerful V6 engine is also available if you're looking for a midsize truck with a little more zip under the hood. Specifically, the TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro are offered with a 3.5L V6 engine at 278 hp. This engine is paired with either a six-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission—depending on whether you opt for a rear- or four-wheel drive model.

5. Standard driver-assistance features

The 2018 Tacoma is ahead of its time when it comes to driver-assistance technology, with many features coming standard even on its base SR model. This includes forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure alert.