Toyota
Toyota Tacoma (3rd gen, 2016–2023)
$22k – $46k typical used · TRD trims climb. Numbers below are editorial ballparks — trims, payloads, clearance, and cargo envelopes vary by configuration; verify on the sticker and placard before you load up.
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Replaced by 4th gen (2024+) — used market only. Toyota Tacoma (4th gen) →
- Reliability vibe
- 8/10
- Ground clearance
- 9.4″ rep.
- Payload (approx.)
- 1,395 lb rep.
- Cargo (approx.)
- 38 cu ft
Factory Specs vs. Real Trail Loading
Editorial ballparks for Toyota Tacoma (3rd gen, 2016–2023): empty-truck catalog numbers versus two common overlanding load profiles (two occupants assumed).
| Spec Category | Stock Factory Specs | With Mid-Weight Build (RTT + Fridge) | With Heavy Build (Armor + Winch) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Gear Weight Penalty | 0 lb | 550 lb | 900 lb |
| Remaining Safe Payload | 1,095 lb | 545 lb | 195 lb |
| Real Ground Clearance | 9.45″ | 8.7″ | 7.9″ |
| Free Cargo Space Volume | 38 cu ft | 19 cu ft | 11.4 cu ft |
Why this matters: Car dealerships list specs based on an empty truck. Once you add common adventure gear, your legal weight ceiling disappears fast. Always verify your specific door placard math before buying accessories.
Why crew like it
- Huge installed base + proven TRD trims
- Refined enough for freeway miles to the trailhead
- Lockers/gearing options still relevant for crawling
Honest drawbacks
- Older examples need transmission & vibration homework
- Rear-seat & storage still tight versus full-size rigs
- Used pricing stayed stubborn versus newer trucks
Community builds
No one has shared a build on this platform yet.