Test Drive: 2006 Toyota Tacoma PreRunner Double Cab Longbed

Before they were production vehicles, Tacoma PreRunners were used to check out and get a feel for the course before an off-road race started -- that's where the Pre in PreRunner originates. Toyota wanted the trucks to look sporty and they had to sit higher to do the job, but they didn't have to be 4x4s. The PreRunner looked like a winner with the public so Toyota put it into production -- and it took off. Tacoma PreRunners still have a higher ground clearance chassis and a little sportier styling than other 4x2 Tacomas. They're equipped with a beefed-up suspension and larger brakes borrowed from their 4x4 counterparts. It's a pretty good tradeoff -- a truck that's more affordable and more fuel efficient than a 4x4, but with some of the features that make a 4x4 attractive. If you haven't met him yet, Jason Fogelson's our new SUVs Guide. I think he had some fun driving the PreRunner around during his test drive.

More 2006 Tacomas

• Tacoma's truck bed and bed accessories
• Tacoma fuel economy estimates
• Tacoma pricing
• Tacoma truck photos

_{Photo © Jason Fogelson}