Toyota's Tacoma pickup truck is one of the most versatile offerings in the popular mid-size truck segment.

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The 2009 Tacoma sports some fresh exterior details that include an argent painted grille and LED taillights across the board along with smoked headlight trim on X-Runner models and ones equipped with the TRD Offroad and TRD Sport packages. Four new colors (Magnetic Gray, Barcelona Red, Pyrite and Timberland) are also added to the palette.

All Tacoma models now get Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), and Traction Control (TRAC) as standard equipment, adding to the already factory-fare ABS, EBD and Brake Assist. Passive safety features made standard for the new models include roll-sensing curtain and side airbags, along with active front headrests. Buyers of 2WD models and offroad aficionados will appreciate the standard automatic limited-slip differential. Downhill Assist Control (DAC) helps to keep the shiny side of your Tacoma up.

New door trim panels find their way inside all 2009 Tacomas, as does a more capable sound system. In addition to AM/FM radio reception, buyers will be able to play MP3-encoded CDs or plug in their mobile audio devices or laptops thanks to an auxiliary input. The head units will also be prewired for satellite radio. In all but the regular cab Tacos, the speaker count will increase to six courtesy of two new ceiling-mounted drivers. All Access Cab models (extended cab, with rear-hinged rear half-doors) will come with power windows and locks and a rear seat with under-seat and central storage areas. Fresh seat fabric gussies up the interior in SR5 trims, while Regular cabs make do with a front bench seat for 3-passenger seating. Offered for the first time on the Tacoma is a back-up monitor for Access and Double Cab models.

The Tacoma is available in up to 18 different configurations, based on three cab types: Regular Cab, Access Cab, and Double Cab. Depending on the cab of your choice, the buyer also has a choice between 60.3-inch or 73.5-inch bed lengths.

Drivetrains also run the gamut in this case: The Tacoma can be had in four- and six-cylinder models, 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrains, and as a PreRunner option which combines the aggressive stance of the 4x4 with the sport-like performance of the 236-horsepower engine in a two-wheel-drive package.

Engine choices throughout the line include a 2.7-liter DOHC four-cylinder engine pumping out 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. Also included standard in the PreRunner, and PreRunner Double Cab, as well as the Access Cab is the 4.0-liter DOHC V6 with Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), which puts down 266 lb-ft of torque. The V6-powered Tacoma has a towing payload of up to 6,500 pounds. Power hits the pavement with P215/70R15 tires on steel wheels or P245/75R16 wheels on styled steel wheels, which are exclusive to the 4x4 and PreRunner models.

Toyota has seen fit to offer four different transmissions depending on which type of engine you select. A four-speed automatic and five-speed manual propel the four-cylinder engine, while a five-speed automatic or six-speed manual, both with overdrive, move the six-cylinder engine.

High-performance packages are available by ordering the X-Runner, which is equipped with a specially tuned and lowered chassis. The X-Runner name comes from its 'X-brace,' which is installed for enhanced torsional rigidity. Exclusively available with a six-speed manual transmission, it stands apart with a full body kit and hood scoop. Alloy wheels shod with18-inch 255/45R18 tires seize the road, and keep contact with Bilstein gas-charged shock absorbers.

In all its various styles and flavors the Toyota Tacoma is so popular that it accounts for 10 percent of Toyota's total US sales.