Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2022 Toyota Tacoma and its manual transmission option. For those of us who love the feel of a stick shift, the Tacoma offers a unique experience in a world increasingly dominated by automatics. This review will cover everything you need to know about the 2022 Tacoma with a manual transmission, from its performance and features to its pros and cons.

Overview of the 2022 Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma has long been a favorite among truck enthusiasts, known for its reliability, durability, and off-road capabilities. The 2022 model continues this tradition, offering a range of configurations to suit different needs and preferences. While many modern trucks come exclusively with automatic transmissions, the Tacoma stands out by still offering a manual option, catering to drivers who prefer a more engaging driving experience.

The 2022 Tacoma is available in several trims, including the SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and TRD Pro. The manual transmission is primarily offered on the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road models, making these trims particularly appealing to those seeking a hands-on driving experience. These models combine ruggedness with modern features, providing a balance of practicality and enjoyment.

The exterior design of the 2022 Tacoma remains largely unchanged from previous years, with its bold grille, muscular stance, and aggressive styling. Inside, the cabin offers a comfortable and functional space, with user-friendly technology and ample storage. The Tacoma's blend of traditional truck capabilities and modern amenities makes it a compelling choice in the mid-size truck segment.

Why Choose a Manual Transmission?

Before we get into the specifics of the 2022 Tacoma's manual transmission, let's talk about why someone might choose a manual in the first place. In an era where automatic transmissions are more efficient and convenient than ever, the manual still holds a special appeal for certain drivers.

• Driving Engagement: For many, the primary reason to choose a manual transmission is the increased level of engagement it offers. The driver has direct control over gear selection, allowing for a more connected and involved driving experience. This can be particularly rewarding for those who enjoy the art of driving and appreciate the feeling of mastering a vehicle.
• Control: Manual transmissions give drivers greater control over the engine's power and torque. This can be especially useful in off-road situations, where precise control is essential for navigating challenging terrain. The ability to select the optimal gear for the situation can make a significant difference in traction and overall performance.
• Simplicity and Reliability: While modern automatics are incredibly complex, manual transmissions are relatively simple in design. This simplicity can translate to greater reliability and lower maintenance costs over the long term. Additionally, some drivers simply prefer the straightforward nature of a manual gearbox.
• Cost: In some cases, vehicles with manual transmissions may have a lower initial purchase price compared to their automatic counterparts. While this isn't always the case, it can be a factor for budget-conscious buyers.

The 2022 Tacoma's Manual Transmission: Details

The 2022 Toyota Tacoma offers a 6-speed manual transmission paired with the 3.5-liter V6 engine. This combination provides a satisfying blend of power and control, making it a joy to drive both on and off the road. The manual transmission is available on the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road trims, allowing buyers to choose the model that best suits their needs.

The 6-speed manual transmission in the Tacoma is designed to be robust and reliable, capable of handling the demands of both daily driving and more challenging conditions. The gear ratios are well-spaced, providing smooth acceleration and comfortable cruising speeds. The clutch pedal has a moderate weight, offering a good balance between ease of use and positive feedback.

One of the standout features of the Tacoma's manual transmission is its intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) system. This system helps to smooth out shifts by automatically rev-matching the engine during downshifts. This not only makes the driving experience more seamless but also reduces wear and tear on the drivetrain.

The iMT system can be particularly beneficial for drivers who are new to manual transmissions or those who want a little extra assistance in maintaining smooth gear changes. However, for purists who prefer complete control, the iMT system can be turned off, allowing for traditional manual operation.

Driving Experience

So, what's it like to actually drive a 2022 Toyota Tacoma with a manual transmission? In a word, engaging. The combination of the V6 engine and the 6-speed manual provides a driving experience that's both fun and rewarding.

The engine delivers plenty of power, with ample torque available throughout the rev range. The manual transmission allows you to make the most of this power, giving you the ability to precisely control the engine's output. Whether you're accelerating on the highway or crawling over rocks off-road, the manual transmission puts you in command.

The clutch pedal has a predictable and consistent feel, making it easy to modulate and control. The shifter has a solid and precise action, with well-defined gates that make it easy to find the right gear. Overall, the Tacoma's manual transmission is well-engineered and provides a satisfying driving experience.

Pros and Cons of the 2022 Tacoma Manual

To give you a balanced view, here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of choosing a 2022 Toyota Tacoma with a manual transmission:

Pros:

• Greater Driving Engagement: The manual transmission offers a more involved and connected driving experience.
• Enhanced Control: Drivers have more precise control over the engine's power and torque, especially useful off-road.
• iMT System: The intelligent Manual Transmission system smooths out shifts and reduces wear and tear.
• Reliability: Manual transmissions are generally simpler and more reliable than automatics.
• Fun Factor: Many drivers simply enjoy the experience of driving a manual transmission.

Cons:

• Learning Curve: Manual transmissions can be challenging to learn for new drivers.
• Less Convenient: Manual transmissions require more effort and attention than automatics, especially in traffic.
• Lower Fuel Economy: In some cases, manual transmissions may offer slightly lower fuel economy compared to automatics (though this difference is often minimal).
• Limited Availability: The manual transmission is only available on certain trims.

Off-Road Performance

One of the areas where the 2022 Toyota Tacoma with a manual transmission truly shines is in off-road performance. The manual transmission gives drivers a level of control that's hard to match with an automatic, allowing for precise modulation of power and torque in challenging terrain.

The ability to select the right gear for the situation is crucial when navigating obstacles like rocks, mud, and steep inclines. The manual transmission allows you to keep the engine in the optimal rev range, providing maximum traction and control. Additionally, the iMT system can be particularly helpful in off-road situations, smoothing out shifts and preventing wheel spin.

The Tacoma's off-road capabilities are further enhanced by its other features, such as the available locking rear differential, crawl control, and multi-terrain select system. These features work together to make the Tacoma a formidable off-road machine.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is always a concern for truck buyers, and the 2022 Toyota Tacoma with a manual transmission is no exception. While the manual transmission may not offer the same level of fuel efficiency as the automatic in some situations, the difference is often minimal.

The EPA estimates for the 2022 Tacoma with the V6 engine and manual transmission are around 17 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. These numbers are comparable to the automatic version, although real-world fuel economy can vary depending on driving conditions and habits.

It's worth noting that the manual transmission can actually be more fuel-efficient in certain situations, such as when driving on the highway at a constant speed. By selecting the optimal gear, you can keep the engine running at its most efficient point, potentially saving fuel.

Interior and Technology

The interior of the 2022 Toyota Tacoma is designed to be both functional and comfortable, with user-friendly technology and ample storage space. While the Tacoma may not be the most luxurious truck on the market, it offers a practical and well-equipped cabin.

The Tacoma comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Higher trims offer an upgraded 8-inch touchscreen, as well as additional features like navigation and a premium JBL sound system.

The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long drives. The Tacoma also offers a variety of storage compartments, including a large center console, door pockets, and under-seat storage.

Final Thoughts

The 2022 Toyota Tacoma with a manual transmission is a unique and compelling option in the mid-size truck segment. It offers a blend of ruggedness, reliability, and driving engagement that's hard to find elsewhere. While the manual transmission may not be for everyone, it's a great choice for drivers who appreciate the art of driving and want a more connected experience.

Whether you're a seasoned off-roader or simply someone who enjoys the feel of a stick shift, the 2022 Tacoma with a manual transmission is worth considering. It's a truck that's built to last and designed to be enjoyed.

So, if you're in the market for a mid-size truck and you're not afraid of a little extra work behind the wheel, give the 2022 Toyota Tacoma with a manual transmission a try. You might just find that it's the perfect truck for you.