Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2016 Toyota Tacoma S
The 2016 Toyota Tacoma S is a truck that earns a Carivo score of 7.6/10 — rated Recommended. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 8.6/10, while Technology at 6.9/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability stands out at 8.6/10. The Tacoma S nameplate has earned that score through its track record and a comparatively clean recall sheet. Safety lands at 7.5/10 — solid, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard. Confirm official results for your trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
With 7.2/10 for performance, this is a car tuned for daily driving rather than excitement — perfectly capable on the commute, unremarkable on a back road. Technology scores 6.9/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $27,530–$33,686, 15 MPG, seating 5, the Toyota Tacoma S sits in the mid-market bracket of the truck segment. At 7.3/10 for value, it delivers fair pricing for what's on offer, though the best alternatives in this price range score slightly higher. At 10 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Verdict: Nothing about the 2016 Toyota Tacoma S will scare a sensible buyer off. Keep an eye on technology if those matter to you; otherwise it does what a good truck should — quietly and competently.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Trucks
The 2016 Toyota Tacoma S ranks #127 of 515 trucks in the Carivo database — better than 76% of the segment. Its 7.6/10 overall score is 0.2 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $27,530 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $35,138 by about 22%.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Tacoma S Year Should You Buy?
Across the Tacoma S model years we've scored, the 2016 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Driving dynamics are adequate but uninspiring; not the choice for enthusiast drivers
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Fuel economy at 15 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Common Questions — 2016 Toyota Tacoma S
Is the 2016 Toyota Tacoma S reliable?
We rate the 2016 Toyota Tacoma S's reliability 8.6/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2016 Toyota Tacoma S worth buying?
It scores 7.6/10 overall, ranking #127 of 515 trucks in our database (better than 76% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2016 Toyota Tacoma S cost?
The 2016 Toyota Tacoma S starts at $27,530 and ranges up to $33,686 across trims (MSRP when new). At 15 MPG, expect roughly $3,500/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Tacoma S years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest Tacoma S years we've rated are 2017 (7.5/10), 2015 (7.5/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (8.0/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — Toyota Tacoma S
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Similar Truck to Consider
Other trucks at a similar price point, ranked by Carivo score.
Representative photo — may show another model year
