Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2021 Toyota Tacoma S
Our scoring places the 2021 Toyota Tacoma S at 7.7/10 overall, which translates to a Recommended rating for this truck. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 8.7/10, while Technology at 7.2/10 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. At 8.7/10, reliability is one of this truck's best cards — few vehicles in our database score higher on this dimension. The safety score of 7.7/10 is solid mid-pack territory. If advanced driver aids matter to you, compare standard equipment carefully and verify ratings at nhtsa.gov.
Performance scores 7.4/10 — competent for everyday use. Acceleration and handling are adequate for commuting and highway driving, though enthusiasts will want to look at higher-rated alternatives. Tech rates a reasonable 7.2/10: the essentials are covered and well executed, but rivals at the same price often include more as standard.
Priced from $32,964–$38,886, 20 MPG, seating 5, the Toyota Tacoma S sits in the mid-market bracket of the truck segment. The 7.4/10 value score says the pricing is fair rather than generous; cross-shop the segment before signing anything. At 5 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Our take: The 2021 Toyota Tacoma S is a solid, well-rounded truck that covers the essentials without obvious deal-breakers. For most buyers in this segment, it's a safe, dependable choice.
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 2021 Toyota Tacoma S ranks #97 of 515 trucks in the Carivo database — better than 81% of the segment. Its 7.7/10 overall score is 0.3 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $32,964 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $35,138 by about 6%.
Smart-money pick: the 2018 Toyota Tacoma S scores 7.6/10 — within striking distance of the 2021's 7.7 — and starts roughly $3,500 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
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 20 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Common Questions — 2021 Toyota Tacoma S
Is the 2021 Toyota Tacoma S reliable?
We rate the 2021 Toyota Tacoma S's reliability 8.7/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2021 Toyota Tacoma S worth buying?
It scores 7.7/10 overall, ranking #97 of 515 trucks in our database (better than 81% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2021 Toyota Tacoma S cost?
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma S starts at $32,964 and ranges up to $38,886 across trims (MSRP when new). At 20 MPG, expect roughly $2,625/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Owner Essentials — Toyota Tacoma S
Practical extras owners actually buy. These are Amazon search links — as an Amazon Associate, Carivo earns from qualifying purchases at no cost to you.
Once a month: which brands moved up or down our reliability rankings, new recalls worth knowing, and the smartest-money model years. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
You're in — first report lands next month.
More Toyota Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Toyota models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
Representative photo — may show another model year