Starting MSRP: about $15,000

Regardless of your pickup needs, one of five versions of the Toyota Tacoma is likely to suit you. Tacoma features a long list of standard safety equipment, including side-impact and side-curtain air bags, antilock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist and electronic stability control. A side-curtain air bag inflates the full area of the window to protect your head from hitting the window or frame pillar in a side-impact collision.

For 2009, the rear seat in Access Cab models was redesigned for more space and comfort. A full redesign is expected for the 2012 model year. Tacoma comes in three cab styles -- Regular, Access and Double -- and five- or six-foot bed lengths, as well as the X-Runner model designed for on-road performance.