Hey there, gearheads and truck enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR i4, a truck that's been making waves in the mid-size pickup truck market. In this comprehensive review, we'll cover everything from its performance and features to its pros and cons, helping you decide if this is the right truck for you. So, buckle up, and let's get started!

Performance and Engine

Let's kick things off by talking about what's under the hood. The 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR i4 is powered by a 2.7-liter inline-four engine. This engine delivers a respectable 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. Now, for some of you, that might not sound like a lot, especially if you're used to the V6 options available in higher trims. However, the SR i4 is designed to be a workhorse, focusing on reliability and fuel efficiency rather than outright power. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, which offers smooth and responsive shifts. While it may not win any races, this combination provides adequate power for daily driving, commuting, and light-duty tasks.

Engine Performance

The engine's performance is best described as steady and dependable. It gets the job done without any fuss. You won't feel a surge of acceleration when you step on the gas, but the Tacoma SR i4 provides enough grunt to handle highway merges and passing maneuvers. The six-speed automatic transmission does a good job of keeping the engine in its optimal power band, ensuring smooth and efficient operation. For those who prioritize fuel economy, the SR i4 offers a decent performance, making it a practical choice for those looking to save money at the pump. The fuel economy ratings are pretty good for a truck of this size, making it an appealing option for those who use their truck for daily commutes. The suspension is tuned for comfort and stability, providing a composed ride on various road surfaces. The steering is precise, and the truck feels confident when cornering. The brakes are strong and responsive, providing ample stopping power in all conditions. Overall, the 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR i4 offers a balanced driving experience that is well-suited for both city and highway driving.

Fuel Efficiency

One of the key selling points of the 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR i4 is its fuel efficiency. The inline-four engine is designed to be economical, offering better gas mileage compared to the V6 options. The EPA estimates for the SR i4 are around 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. Now, these numbers might not be groundbreaking, but they are pretty good for a mid-size pickup truck. This means you can save money on fuel costs over time, which can be a significant benefit, especially if you drive a lot. The fuel tank capacity is also reasonable, giving you a decent range before needing to refuel. The Tacoma SR i4 is an excellent choice for those who prioritize fuel economy without sacrificing too much performance.

Interior and Features

Let's move inside the 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR i4. The interior is designed with functionality in mind, and you won't find any fancy frills or excessive luxury here. However, it's well-built, comfortable, and packed with practical features. The SR trim is the base model, so don't expect premium materials or a long list of features. Instead, you'll find a no-nonsense interior that's easy to live with. The seats are supportive, and the driving position is comfortable. The infotainment system includes a touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, which is a great addition for those who like to stay connected on the road.

Interior Comfort and Design

The interior of the 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR i4 is all about functionality and practicality. The materials used are durable and designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. You won't find any premium leather or soft-touch surfaces here, but the quality is good, and everything feels well-built. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long drives. The driving position is also excellent, with good visibility and easy-to-reach controls. The design is simple and straightforward, with a focus on ease of use. There's plenty of storage space throughout the cabin, including a center console, door pockets, and various compartments for storing your belongings. Overall, the interior is a comfortable and functional space that is well-suited for work and everyday life. The simple design allows the driver to focus on the road without being distracted by unnecessary features. The spaciousness of the cabin is another plus, as both front and rear passengers will have sufficient legroom and headroom.

Technology and Infotainment

While the 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR i4 is the base model, it still comes equipped with some essential technology features. The infotainment system includes a touchscreen display that is user-friendly and easy to navigate. The system also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the vehicle. This means you can access your favorite apps, make calls, send texts, and listen to music without taking your hands off the wheel. The system also includes Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream audio and make hands-free calls. The sound system is decent, providing clear audio quality. You'll also find USB ports for charging your devices. Although the SR trim may not have all the bells and whistles of higher trims, it offers all the essential technology features to keep you connected and entertained on the road. The system is intuitive and easy to use, so you won't have to spend hours learning how to operate it. The integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a major plus, as it allows you to easily access your favorite apps and features from your smartphone.

Exterior and Design

The 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR i4 has a rugged and classic pickup truck design. The exterior is simple, clean, and functional. It's not flashy, but it's undoubtedly a Toyota Tacoma, with its signature bold styling. The truck sits on a sturdy frame and has a tough, no-nonsense appearance. The SR trim comes standard with features like a black grille, body-colored bumpers, and steel wheels. However, it still looks good and is built to handle various tasks. The truck's size is just right, making it easy to maneuver in the city while still offering a substantial cargo bed for hauling your gear. The design is practical and functional, without any unnecessary elements. The truck's high ground clearance makes it capable of handling various terrains, and its overall robust construction ensures durability. The exterior is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use, making it a reliable work companion.

Styling and Features

The styling of the 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR i4 is all about functionality and practicality. The design is clean and straightforward, with a focus on durability and ruggedness. The truck features a bold front fascia, a sturdy grille, and a set of practical headlights. The body-colored bumpers give it a cohesive look. The steel wheels are a classic touch, and the overall design projects a sense of strength and reliability. The SR trim is the base model, so you won't find any fancy design elements or premium features. However, the exterior is well-executed and designed to handle various tasks. The truck's high ground clearance makes it capable of handling off-road adventures, and its overall construction ensures durability. The exterior is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use, making it a reliable work companion. The truck's dimensions are also perfect for maneuvering in city environments and offering a generous cargo bed for all your gear.

Towing and Payload Capacity

When it comes to towing and payload capacity, the 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR i4 performs well for its class. The truck is capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. This is more than enough for light-duty towing tasks, such as hauling a small trailer or boat. The payload capacity is also respectable, allowing you to carry a significant amount of cargo in the bed. The exact payload capacity varies depending on the configuration and options, but it's typically around 1,500 pounds. This is more than enough for hauling tools, materials, or equipment. The truck's suspension and frame are designed to handle these loads, ensuring stability and safety. The Tacoma SR i4 is a practical choice for those who need a reliable work truck that can handle both towing and hauling tasks. The truck's performance in these areas makes it a versatile option for various applications.

Safety Features

Toyota has always prioritized safety, and the 2022 Tacoma SR i4 is no exception. It comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features to protect you and your passengers. Standard safety features include Toyota Safety Sense, which includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. These features help to prevent accidents and enhance your driving experience. The truck also has standard airbags, stability control, and traction control. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have given the Tacoma high safety ratings, further solidifying its reputation as a safe and reliable vehicle. The combination of these safety features and the truck's robust construction makes the Tacoma SR i4 a safe choice for families and individuals alike. Toyota's commitment to safety is evident in the features offered in the SR trim.

Safety Technology

The 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR i4 comes with a range of advanced safety technologies to help you stay safe on the road. The Toyota Safety Sense suite includes a pre-collision system that can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes. The lane departure alert system warns you if you drift out of your lane, and the automatic high beams automatically switch between high and low beams based on the surrounding traffic. Adaptive cruise control helps you maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. These features work together to provide a safer and more confident driving experience. In addition to these advanced features, the Tacoma SR i4 also has standard airbags, stability control, and traction control, which are essential for protecting you in the event of an accident. The combination of these technologies makes the Tacoma SR i4 a safe and reliable vehicle.

Crash Test Ratings

The 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR i4 has received high marks in crash tests conducted by the IIHS and the NHTSA. These tests evaluate the vehicle's ability to protect occupants in the event of a collision. The Tacoma has consistently received good ratings in various crash tests, demonstrating its robust construction and effective safety features. These ratings provide peace of mind, knowing that the truck is designed to protect you and your passengers in the event of an accident. The Tacoma's strong performance in crash tests further solidifies its reputation as a safe and reliable vehicle. The IIHS and NHTSA ratings are a valuable resource for consumers looking for a safe and trustworthy vehicle.

Pros and Cons

Now, let's summarize the good and the bad of the 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR i4: Guys, it's essential to consider both sides before making a decision. Here's a breakdown:

Pros

• Reliability: Toyota has a stellar reputation for reliability, and the Tacoma is no exception. It's built to last.
• Fuel Efficiency: The i4 engine offers good fuel economy for a truck.
• Practicality: The SR trim offers a functional and well-designed interior.
• Resale Value: Tacomas hold their value exceptionally well.
• Safety Features: Equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, providing peace of mind.

Cons

• Underpowered: The i4 engine may feel underpowered for some drivers.
• Basic Interior: The SR trim has a basic interior without many premium features.
• Ride Quality: The ride can be a bit rough, especially on uneven roads.
• Price: The base price might be higher compared to some competitors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 2022 Toyota Tacoma SR i4 is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable, fuel-efficient, and practical mid-size pickup truck. It's perfect for daily commuting, light-duty work, and weekend adventures. While it may not be the most powerful or luxurious truck on the market, its reliability, high resale value, and safety features make it a smart investment. If you're looking for a truck that gets the job done without breaking the bank, the Tacoma SR i4 is definitely worth considering. Thanks for hanging out with me and reading this review, I hope this helps you make an informed decision! Drive safe and happy trucking, y'all!