8-5-05
2005 Toyota Access Cab 4X4 V6

by Dave Stall
 
Toyota trucks have come a long way

Toyota, along with all the other manufacturers, has really come a long way. I could see exactly how far when testing this
2005 Toyota Access Cab 4X4 V6. I own a 1987 Toyota 4X4 extra cab, which was the beginning of the truck you see today.

Today's
Toyota Tacoma is so much better, with more power, a smoother ride, a better sound system as well as better insulation from sound and weather. But I can't get used to the way Toyota cuts the wheel well openings. And Toyota isn't the only one going in that direction; take a look at General Motors small truck line.

But that's a small issue when it comes to the whole truck. I love the way the dash is laid out, with easy-to-reach the climate controls and the AM/FM/CD with a six- disc changer and six speakers nestled inside the cab. There are cup holders big enough to hold most cups and storage under the dash. The center armrest sits just high enough for your arm to rest comfortably, plus it has lots of storage and a little net inside for those things you don't want running around, getting bent or damaged.

I really like the dark charcoal interior and the "Speedway Blue" exterior really pops! I'd like the quarter glass to open in the rear quarter doors but it does have a sliding rear window for flow-through ventilation.

The engine in this Tacoma is the tried-and-true V6 with VVT-i technology. It gets 245 horsepower out of a dual overhead cam 4.0-liter V6 (wish I had that in my 4X4). This test truck had the six-speed manual transmission and it shifts nicely. You can opt for an automatic transmission and since this is a 4X4, you can engage the 4X4 on the fly (with my truck you have to stop, get out and manually lock the front hubs and manually shift the transfer case). Toyota now positions the 4X4 engagement knob on the dash within easy reach. I went off-road with this truck but never got into a situation where I needed the 4X4 - typical Toyota!

This Tacoma came with the optional TRD (Toyota Racing Development) package, which includes off-road tuned suspension with Bilstein shocks, 16-inch alloy wheels with P265/70R16 BF Goodrich tires, locking rear differential, engine skid plate, front tow hooks (so you can pull the other guy out), fog lights, Class Four tow hitch, supplemental oil cooler, heavy duty battery and alternator, and a trendy 115-volt/400 watt deck-mounted power supply in the bed.

There are a lot of features that I would categorize as "niceties," such as power windows and door locks, cruise control, remote keyless entry, variable wipers as well as multifunction overhead console with a compass and outside temperature gauge. The cloth sport seats have lumbar, but all adjustments are manual. The leather steering wheel has audio controls and there's a leather shift knob. The visor extenders are great, especially when the sun blasts you in the face.

Outside, Toyota added chrome to the grill and color-coded the bumpers.
There's also TRD graphics on the bed and the neatest tie-down system.

Another item Toyota has improved is the fuel mileage. This truck gets 16 miles per gallon in the city and 20 on the freeway - not bad for 245 horses under the hood. That's where the VVTi comes in (plus a lot of other things).

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Normally I would have picked up this truck from Toyota of Carlsbad but since Toyota Inc. sent it to me, I decided to save Toyota Carlsbad the miles I will put on its truck. That doesn't mean you can't find my truck on their lot - they have a huge inventory and a great sales crew to serve you. Folks such as Ernan Northrup are knowledgeable, friendly and willing to do what it takes to get you in the vehicle of your choice. Stephanie Packard is a fleet assistant and can help anyone who has fleet needs. In fact, you might what to call her at (760) 496-2425 to see if your needs meet the fleet requirement - you might be surprised what she has to tell you.

But wherever you go or whomever you meet at Toyota of Carlsbad, you won't be disappointed. It is a President's Award-winner every year, plus it's been given other awards I can't remember. It's all about customer satisfaction and they are the leaders! Check the dealership out at 5424 Paseo Del Norte in the Car Country Carlsbad Mall (just off I-5 and Palomar Airport Road).