2005 Toyota Tacoma

Optional stability control adds a of safety by constantly comparing the truck's direction of travel with the driver's intended course and intervening to correct an impending skid before it happens. Traction control, which helps minimize wheelspin, is included with the stability control system.

Dual-stage front airbags are standard on all Tacomas. Models with front bucket seats also get an occupant classification system which automatically turns off the front passenger airbag if the seat is occupied by a child or small stature adult that may be injured by the force of its deployment. A key-activated airbag on/off switch is also standard on Regular and Access Cab models. Torso-protecting side-impact and head-protecting side-curtain airbags-which have been shown to significantly reduce fatalities in broadside collisions-are offered as an option on Tacoma Double Cabs.

Two slick new features available for the first time on Tacoma aim to take much of the drama out of climbing and descending steep hills. Aptly named Hill-start Assist Control, which uses automatic applications of the brakes to keep the vehicle from rolling backwards on uphill starts, is included on models equipped with an automatic transmission and the optional stability control system. Downhill Assist Control, which is standard on four-wheel drive models, does pretty much what the name implies -- limiting downhill speed in forward or reverse to under six miles-per-hour while automatically braking individual wheels as needed to help improve stability on steep downhill sections.