What's new for the 2005 Toyota Tacoma: Redesigned; new model.

Toyota claims the Tacoma has been around for eight generations now (often under different names), but not until the current version did it meet with such widespread acceptance. The dramatic size increase had a lot to do with it; other likely factors were the robust new 4.0-liter V6 and class-leading acceleration times. Its bold new looks probably didn't hurt, either.

Add it all up and the Tacoma has a much easier time swallowing cargo, towing trailers, or carrying passengers than its predecessor -- or its contemporaries. Acceleration with the V6 is quickest of all (about seven seconds to 60 MPH), and towing capacity goes up to 6,500 pounds. The Tacoma is also exclusive in offering the option of a big crew cab body with an extra-long 6'2" bed -- a configuration that might make it a passable substitute for a more wasteful full-size truck. It has a pretty elegant interior, and certain versions come with handy little bonuses like a power outlet at the back of the bed.

The driving experience partly depends on choice of wheels, wheelbase, engine, and transmission, but all Tacomas pretty much feel like some kind of monster truck Camry -- precise, though numb and clumsy, and with low handling abilities. In a rare foul-up, Toyota didn't get the Tacoma's seats right, either. Both the fronts and rears are too low and soggy, which gives the driver the feeling of sinking down to car level (it's possible the new seats in 2007 fixed this).

These are reasons enough, we think, to go with the Nissan Frontier, a decidedly better mid-size truck that shares all the Tacoma's strengths and few of its weaknesses. But there's no doubt that the Tacoma wins the silver trophy.