Toyota cars and trucks constantly rank at the top of their respective classes.  Toyota prides itself on bringing vehicles to the market that have excellent performance ratings, top of the line safety features and reliability that is matched by none.  In 2010, Toyota brought to the table what would be the number one compact pick-up truck on the market: the Toyota Tacoma.

The Tacoma scored really high in the area of performance.  In a market where fluctuating gas prices and having a little extra money in the pocket are serious concerns, the Tacoma is an ideal vehicle with its four-cylinder engine option.  The Tacoma has a 2.7 liter, 159 horsepower engine with 180 pound-feet of torque.  So  if you need to use your truck for light to medium load hauling and every day driving the Tacoma is the truck you’re looking for.  If you’re in the market for a truck that has a bit more power than that of a four-cylinder engine, the Tacoma comes with 4.0 liter V6 engine as well.  With this option the driver will enjoy 236 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque when they hit the road.  Its performance rating was ranked second only to its safety rating.

The Tacoma scored a perfect five out of five stars in front and side impact crash tests performed on the vehicle.  Factors that led to these high ratings are precise placements of front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and front active headrests.  Add stability and traction control and antilock brakes, along with brake assist, and this vehicle makes for a truck that is unbeatable in the category of safety.

In reliability, the 2010 Tacoma scored excellent by J.D. Power and Associates who rate vehicles on trending over the last three years and historical quality and dependability that they have acquired over recent years as well.  J.D Power and Associates expects the 2010 to have the same reliability success as the 2009 Tacoma, which earned great reviews from professionals and customers alike.

So if you’re in the market for an excellent compact pickup truck, the Tacoma is the truck for you.  To test drive this vehicle, contact Spirit Toyota in St. Louis.  You won’t be disappointed.