Test Drive: 2016 Toyota Tacoma still king of the hill

If you find yourself behind a midsize truck on Chattanooga highways, chances are it's a Toyota Tacoma(with Car Dvd Player). Since 1964, Toyota has sold more than 7 million small and midsize trucks, and the mid-size Tacoma pickup has been king of the hill in its segment for the last decade. In any line of traffic south of Kentucky, there's probably a Tacoma 4X4 or two. With that stellar sales history, there's a lot riding on Toyota's 2016 update of its gold-standard midsize pickup. A new, more refined V-6 is the big news for 2016; along with a few styling tweaks to keep things fresh. Toyota is trying to hold off the competition, specifically GM's excellent new Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon, which have just introduced diesel derivatives to stir the pot. So hold on to your grab handles, the midsize pickup wars are picking up. Our Inferno Orange tester is a five-passenger, double-cab model outfitted in TRD trim, which is Toyota's rally-racing inspired off-road package. It lists for $37,600, while a base Tacoma starts at $23,300. Local dealerships say customers are claiming the new Tacomas before they even make it to the showroom. Mark Smith, sales manager of North Georgia Toyota in Dalton, Ga., says most of his 2016 Tacoma sales are pre-orders from the pipeline of promised inventory. "We can't keep them in stock," Smith said, noting that high resale value has always been a Tacoma selling point. Smith said the resale market for Tacoma trade-ins with 150,000 miles or more on the odometer is robust. What about install an Android Car Gps? STYLING AND FEATURES The redesigned Tacoma exterior includes a hexagonal grille and a taller, more muscular hood. It also has projector beam headlights and a new, easy-to-lower tailgate. While the overall dimensions haven't changed much, the new Tacoma looks like an old Tacoma oiled up and flexing in the mirror. The new V-6 engine in our tester produces 278 horsepower and is noticeably more refined than the previous six-cylinder engine. Equipped with the optional tow package ($650), the V-6 4X4 can pull up to 6,800 pounds. A 2.7 liter four-cylinder engine is also available, but most customers will check the V-6 box. Both engines are mated to a new six-speed automatic transmission, which also is a noticeable improvement over the old tranny. Our four-wheel-drive test truck returns 23 miles per gallon highway and 18 miles per gallon city. The off-road package draws from Toyota's decades of experience in desert racing. It includes special suspension tuning and upgraded shock absorbers. Inside, the 2016 Tacoma has a more upscale feel, with more soft-touch materials and metallic accents. It looks rugged and durable. Our tester includes push-button start, power moon roof, dual zone climate controls and blind-spot monitor. A new windshield made of acoustic glass makes for a quieter driving experience. A $2,330 Premium and Technology package includes heated front seats, rear parking sonar, and rear cross-traffic alert. Toyota's excellent Entune telematics interface with an integrated navigation app comes standard. BOTTOM LINE The Tacoma truck might just be the safest investment in the truck world. On the outside chance that you're unhappy with your purchase, there will be a line of buyers for your trade. This year's mechanical and styling updates will no doubt allow the Tacoma to retain the championship belt in this weight class. Whether it's victory by knock-out or judges' decision remains to be seen. If installing an Android Car Stereo in your car, that would be great!