2022 Toyota Tacoma SR5: Honest Review & Insights

by Alex Braham 49 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR5. If you're thinking about buying a new mid-size truck, or you're just curious about what the Tacoma SR5 has to offer, then you're in the right place. I'm going to give you a comprehensive review, covering everything from its performance and features to its pros and cons. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Overview of the 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR5

The 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR5 is a popular choice in the mid-size truck segment, and for good reason. It's known for its reliability, off-road capability, and strong resale value. The SR5 trim builds upon the base SR model, adding more features and creature comforts that make it a more appealing daily driver.

What's New for 2022?

For the 2022 model year, Toyota made a few updates to the Tacoma lineup. The SR5 received some minor cosmetic tweaks and feature enhancements. While it wasn't a major overhaul, these changes helped keep the Tacoma fresh and competitive in a crowded market. Some of the notable updates include new exterior color options, updated wheel designs, and some changes to the interior trim.

Target Audience

The Tacoma SR5 is perfect for a wide range of buyers. It's ideal for those who need a truck for work, play, or both. Whether you're a contractor hauling equipment, an outdoor enthusiast hitting the trails, or just someone who wants a reliable and capable daily driver, the Tacoma SR5 is worth considering. Its blend of practicality, durability, and available features makes it a versatile option for many lifestyles.

Performance and Engine Options

Let's talk about what's under the hood. The 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR5 offers two engine options, each catering to different needs and preferences. Understanding these options is crucial in determining if this truck is the right fit for you. I’ll break down each engine's performance, fuel economy, and overall driving experience.

Engine Options

  1. 2.7-Liter Inline-4: The base engine is a 2.7-liter four-cylinder that produces 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. While it's not the most powerful engine on the market, it's adequate for basic tasks and offers decent fuel economy. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
  2. 3.5-Liter V6: The optional engine is a 3.5-liter V6 that cranks out 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides significantly more power and is better suited for towing, hauling, and off-roading. It also comes with a six-speed automatic transmission. For those who prefer more control, a six-speed manual transmission is available on some V6 models.

Driving Experience

The driving experience of the Tacoma SR5 varies depending on the engine you choose. The four-cylinder engine feels a bit underpowered, especially when the truck is loaded with cargo or passengers. It's fine for city driving and light-duty tasks, but it can struggle on the highway and when climbing hills. On the other hand, the V6 engine provides plenty of power and makes the Tacoma feel much more confident and capable. It offers strong acceleration and smooth power delivery, making it a joy to drive in various conditions.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is an important consideration for any truck buyer. The EPA estimates for the 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR5 are as follows:

  • 2.7-Liter Inline-4: 20 mpg city / 23 mpg highway / 21 mpg combined
  • 3.5-Liter V6 (Automatic): 19 mpg city / 24 mpg highway / 21 mpg combined
  • 3.5-Liter V6 (Manual): 17 mpg city / 21 mpg highway / 18 mpg combined

Keep in mind that these figures can vary depending on your driving habits and conditions. If you do a lot of city driving or heavy towing, you can expect to see lower fuel economy numbers. Overall, the Tacoma's fuel economy is decent for its class, but it's not the best. Some competitors offer slightly better fuel efficiency.

Interior and Technology

Moving inside the 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR5, let's explore the interior design, comfort, and technology features. The interior of the Tacoma SR5 is functional and straightforward, but it's not the most luxurious in its class. However, it offers a good balance of comfort and practicality, with user-friendly technology features that enhance the overall driving experience.

Interior Design and Comfort

The interior design of the Tacoma SR5 is simple and utilitarian. The materials are durable and feel well-built, but they're not particularly upscale. The seats are comfortable enough for short to medium-length trips, but they may not be as supportive as some competitors on long journeys. The SR5 trim adds some nice touches, such as fabric upholstery with a patterned design and a leather-trimmed steering wheel.

Technology Features

  • Infotainment System: The Tacoma SR5 comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It's easy to use and features a simple menu layout. The system includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and Bluetooth connectivity. These features allow you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the truck's infotainment system, giving you access to your favorite apps, music, and navigation.
  • Audio System: The standard audio system is decent, but audiophiles may want to upgrade to the optional JBL sound system for a more immersive listening experience.
  • Driver-Assistance Features: The Tacoma SR5 comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), which includes features like pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. These features help to enhance safety and reduce driver fatigue on long trips.

Storage and Space

The Tacoma SR5 offers decent storage space for a mid-size truck. There's a center console with a storage bin, door pockets, and a glove compartment. The rear seats can be folded up to create more cargo space inside the cab. The truck bed is also a good size, with plenty of room for hauling gear and equipment.

Off-Road Capability

One of the Tacoma's biggest strengths is its off-road capability. The 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR5 is designed to handle rough terrain with ease, thanks to its rugged construction and available off-road features. Let's take a closer look at what makes the Tacoma SR5 such a capable off-roader.

Four-Wheel Drive System

The Tacoma SR5 is available with a part-time four-wheel-drive system that allows you to engage four-wheel drive when needed. This system provides excellent traction on slippery surfaces and in challenging off-road conditions. The four-wheel-drive system includes a low-range gear that provides even more torque for tackling steep inclines and obstacles.

Off-Road Features

  • Ground Clearance: The Tacoma SR5 has a good amount of ground clearance, which allows it to clear obstacles without scraping the undercarriage.
  • Suspension: The suspension is designed to absorb bumps and ruts, providing a comfortable ride even on rough terrain.
  • Hill Start Assist Control: This feature helps prevent the truck from rolling backward when starting on a hill.
  • Active Traction Control: This system helps to maintain traction by automatically applying the brakes to individual wheels that are slipping.

Limitations

While the Tacoma SR5 is a capable off-roader, it's not as hardcore as the TRD Off-Road or TRD Pro models. Those models come with additional features like a locking rear differential, crawl control, and a more advanced suspension system. However, the SR5 is still a great option for those who want a truck that can handle occasional off-road adventures.

Pros and Cons of the 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR5

To give you a clear picture, let's summarize the pros and cons of the 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR5. This will help you weigh your options and make an informed decision.

Pros

  • Reliability: The Tacoma is known for its reliability and durability. It's a truck that you can count on to last for many years.
  • Resale Value: The Tacoma holds its value well over time, making it a good investment.
  • Off-Road Capability: The Tacoma is a capable off-roader, especially when equipped with four-wheel drive.
  • Available Features: The SR5 trim offers a good selection of features, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Toyota Safety Sense P.

Cons

  • Engine Performance: The base four-cylinder engine can feel underpowered.
  • Fuel Economy: The Tacoma's fuel economy is decent, but not the best in its class.
  • Interior Design: The interior design is simple and utilitarian, but not particularly luxurious.
  • Ride Comfort: The ride can be a bit stiff, especially on rough roads.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR5? Overall, it's a solid mid-size truck that offers a good balance of reliability, capability, and features. It's not the most luxurious or fuel-efficient truck on the market, but it's a great option for those who want a dependable and versatile vehicle.

If you're looking for a truck that can handle work, play, and everything in between, the Tacoma SR5 is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully and choose the engine and features that best suit your needs. Thanks for reading, and I hope this review has been helpful!