Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2023 Toyota Tacoma SL
The 2023 Toyota Tacoma SL is a truck that earns a Carivo score of 7.9/10 — rated Recommended. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 9.0/10, while Value 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. Reliability stands out at 9.0/10. The Tacoma SL nameplate has earned that score through its track record and a comparatively clean recall sheet. Safety lands at 8.1/10 — solid, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard. Confirm official results for your trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
With 7.6/10 for performance, this is a car tuned for daily driving rather than excitement — perfectly capable on the commute, unremarkable on a back road. At 7.4/10 for technology, the infotainment and driver-assist package does its job without setting benchmarks — check which features cost extra on lower trims.
Priced from $39,721–$47,394, 22 MPG, seating 5, the Toyota Tacoma SL sits in the mid-market bracket of the truck segment. At 7.2/10 for value, it delivers fair pricing for what's on offer, though the best alternatives in this price range score slightly higher. At 3 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.
Verdict: Nothing about the 2023 Toyota Tacoma SL will scare a sensible buyer off. It scores consistently across the board, and 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 2023 Toyota Tacoma SL ranks #16 of 515 trucks in the Carivo database — better than 97% of the segment. Its 7.9/10 overall score is 0.5 points above the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $39,721 starting price is about 13% above the segment's median of $35,138.
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 SL Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2020 Toyota Tacoma SL scores 7.7/10 — within striking distance of the 2023's 7.9 — 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
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Tech suite is functional but lags behind segment-best options; some features cost extra
Brand resale values vary — check current market data before committing
Common Questions — 2023 Toyota Tacoma SL
Is the 2023 Toyota Tacoma SL reliable?
We rate the 2023 Toyota Tacoma SL's reliability 9.0/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2023 Toyota Tacoma SL worth buying?
It scores 7.9/10 overall, ranking #16 of 515 trucks in our database (better than 97% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2023 Toyota Tacoma SL cost?
The 2023 Toyota Tacoma SL starts at $39,721 and ranges up to $47,394 across trims (MSRP when new). At 22 MPG, expect roughly $2,386/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Tacoma SL years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 11 Tacoma SL model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (7.9/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
Owner Essentials — Toyota Tacoma SL
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Explore the full lineup of Toyota models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
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