The manual transmission is fading into history, but the 2025 Toyota Tacoma stands out as an exception, offering enthusiasts a choice.
The truck lover's last stand might just be the 2025 Toyota Tacoma, a truck embodying the end of an era for manual transmission pickup trucks. As the sole remaining manual option in the U.S., this mid-size truck holds a significant place in the hearts of many drivers.
The Rise of the Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma has dominated the mid-size pickup segment for nearly 20 years, selling approximately 200,000 units in 2024 alone. Its closest competitor, the Chevrolet Colorado, lagged significantly behind with sales of about 98,000 units. This remarkable performance can be attributed to a blend of reliability, competitive pricing, and versatile configurations, making the Tacoma appealing to a broad audience.
Pricing and Trim Levels
Starting at $31,590, the Toyota Tacoma SR trim offers a cost-effective entry point compared to rivals like the Ford Ranger XL, which is about $1,500 more expensive, and the Chevrolet Colorado, which is roughly $300 pricier. The Tacoma comes in eight different trim levels, catering to diverse buyer preferences. Each trim offers unique features, from basic utility to luxurious touches, attracting everyone from the casual driver to off-road enthusiasts.
- SR: $31,590 – Affordable option with a solid list of features.
- TRD Off-Road: Designed for adventure seekers with off-road capabilities.
- TRD Pro: The top-tier off-road version, loaded with advanced features.
- Trailhunter: Perfect for overlanding aficionados, equipped with premium suspension components.
- Limited: Adds luxury features for comfortable daily driving.
- And more: Each variant offers something distinctive to meet various needs.
The End of an Era: Manual Transmissions
With the 2025 Toyota Tacoma being the last manual transmission pickup truck available in the U.S., it prompts reflection on the declining tradition of manual gearboxes. Automakers globally are phasing out manuals due to consumer preferences favoring automatics and CVTs. This presents a unique opportunity for enthusiasts who cherish the driving engagement offered by a manual transmission.
Why Tacoma Remains a Favorite
Several factors contribute to the Tacoma's enduring popularity and dominance in sales:
1. Reliability: Toyota's long-standing reputation for building dependable vehicles assures buyers of long-term value.
2. Versatility: The Tacoma's range of trim levels and configurations caters to both work and leisure needs.
3. Off-Road Capability: Known for its rugged off-road strengths, the Tacoma can tackle challenging terrains without breaking a sweat. The TRD series epitomizes this trait with features designed for serious adventurers.
4. Community and Customization: Tacoma owners often form a vibrant community and share tips on personalization, truly making the Tacoma a unique symbol among mid-size pickups.
The Technical Details
Equipped with a 2.4L Turbo Inline-4 gas engine, the 2025 Toyota Tacoma boasts impressive specs designed for performance:
- Horsepower: 270 hp
- Torque: 310 lb-ft at 2,800 rpm
- Max Towing Capacity: 6,500 lbs
- 0 to 60 mph: Approximately 7.4 seconds (with manual transmission)
Each model features variants of this powerful engine, optimized for different driving experiences. Notably, potential buyers should consider the differences in power output between the automatic and manual options. The manual variant receives a slight reduction in horsepower and torque to protect against engine wear while still delivering an exhilarating driving experience.
Future of Manual Transmissions
The future appears dim for manual transmission enthusiasts, as the 2025 Toyota Tacoma stands alone in a pickup truck market largely dominated by automatics. Previous competitors like the Jeep Gladiator have phased out their manual options, leaving the Tacoma as a bittersweet symbol of what was once commonplace in the mid-size truck landscape.
Conclusion: A Truck Like No Other
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma not only serves as a powerful and flexible vehicle for today’s drivers, but it also holds historical significance as the last remaining manual pickup truck option in the U.S. As the truck market continues to evolve, the Tacoma’s legacy as a dependable workhorse and off-road conqueror remains intact. For those seeking a combination of manual driving enjoyment and mid-size pickup utility, the Tacoma represents a rare opportunity that may not last long in an ever-changing automotive world.