The Toyota Tacoma has earned a reputation as one of the most reliable, capable, and long-lasting pickup trucks on the market. However, these trucks also come with premium price tags, especially in recent years as prices have climbed higher and higher. There are a few key reasons why Toyota Tacomas cost more than other midsize trucks.
Top 10 Reasons Why Toyota Tacomas Are So Expensive
1. Proven Track Record
As one of the older and more established midsize truck models, the Tacoma has proven itself over decades on the market. Toyota trucks are known to run for hundreds of thousands of miles. So you’re paying for that reliability and track record when you buy a Tacoma.
2. Great Resale Value
Tacomas are very sought-after used trucks because of their durability. This means they retain their value very well over time. After just a few years, many Tacomas still sell for 70-80% of their original MSRP. So Toyota knows they can demand higher starting prices because Tacomas will hold value better than trucks from other automakers.
3. Off-Road Capability
From the TRD Off-Road to TRD Pro packages, Tacomas feature rugged off-road equipment like crawl control, locking rear differentials, upgraded suspension and skid plates. This makes them more expensive than less capable trucks. Toyota invests heavily in Tacoma’s off-road tech and performance.
4. Quality Materials & Components
Toyota trucks are built to high standards with quality parts and components that match the asking price. Features like the V6 engine, 6-speed manual or automatic transmission, durable frame and body materials – these details set the Tacoma apart from cheaper trucks.
5. Low Inventory & High Demand
Simple supply and demand affects Tacoma prices too – they can’t build them fast enough. Limited inventory coupled with strong customer demand enables dealers to ask more. And discounted deals are less common since these trucks sell easily at full MSRP.
6. Imported Vehicle
The Tacoma is manufactured in Mexico then imported to North America. This results in extra costs related to import duties, logistics and shipping fees which Toyota factors into the pricing. Domestic trucks built in the U.S. avoid some of these imported vehicle costs.
7. Advanced Safety Tech
Today’s Tacomas feature lots of advanced active safety systems and tech like automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, blindspot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert etc. These raise starting prices but also offer peace of mind and protection.
8. Premium Interior Quality
Higher trim Tacomas have an upscale interior with soft-touch dash and doors, leather seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, upgraded multimedia systems and more. Toyota invests in nice cabin materials and amenities you wouldn’t expect in cheaper compact trucks.
9. Strong Brand Reputation
The Toyota brand commands a premium over other truck markers. Brand prestige contributes to higher Tacoma pricing. Toyota has built a reputation for quality, durability and reliability – and people are willing to pay extra for the badge. The Tacoma gets the benefit of Toyota’s strong truck brand identity.
10. Higher-Profit Margins
Automakers typically enjoy higher profit margins on trucks versus passenger cars. Full-size trucks have the biggest margins for carmakers. While the Tacoma is smaller, it’s still very profitable for Toyota.
Strong demand coupled with higher pricing allows Toyota to capture nice margins on Tacomas – even offering incentives and rebates dealers can make good money on these trucks. This enables Toyota to demand higher sticker prices given the healthy return Tacomas offer.
IS Toyota Tacomas A Good Brand?
Yes, Toyota Tacomas have a reputation for reliability, durability, and retaining excellent resale value, making them a consistently good truck brand.
Are Toyota Tacomas Good?
With their reliability, versatility, customization options, and excellent resale value, Toyota Tacomas are considered among the best midsize pick-up trucks available.
Are Toyota Tacomas Worth The Price?
Given their durability, quality, and high resale value, most experts consider Toyota Tacomas well worth their slightly higher initial cost when compared to competitor trucks.
Where To Buy Toyota Tacomas?
Toyota Tacomas can be purchased new at Toyota dealerships nationwide or pre-owned through used car retailers, private sellers, and major used vehicle websites.