After the new generation of the Toyota Tundra, many are wondering when the Tacoma’s turn will come. If we follow the cycles of this Japanese mid-size pickup, the next generation should arrive by the middle of the decade.
This will inevitably adopt a version of the TNGA-F architecture, also used by the Tundra and the Sequoia, and will therefore prove to be more comfortable and pleasant to drive. But what will end up under the hood at this time?
According to a source within the company quoted by The Fast Lane Trucks, the new Tacoma will offer not one but two engines.
Farewell, V6?
Forget the 3.5-liter V6 that produces 278 horsepower, as it looks like it will be replaced by a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. It’s a perfectly logical decision when you look at what Toyota is doing elsewhere in its lineup and what direct competitors like the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon are now offering.
Photo: Toyota
In the 2023 Toyota Highlander, this engine generates 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. However, we know that it can deliver more. That of the 2023 Lexus RX 350, for example, reaches 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft. Above all, the key will be to improve towing capacity, because at 6,500 pounds, the current Tacoma is below the category average.
Tacoma hybrid
As mentioned above, a second engine should appear in the catalog of the next generation Tacoma. Toyota has already announced that every model in its range will be available in an electrified version by 2025 and the source in question talks about a Hybrid Max system combining said 2.4-litre turbo engine with two electric motors.
Photo: Marc Lachapelle
This is precisely what we find in the new 2023 Toyota Crown as well as in the 2023 Lexus RX 500h. Power is 340 and 366 horsepower respectively, while torque totals 400 or 406 lb-ft. In each case, performance is prioritized over fuel economy.
As for a future 100% electric Tacoma that a concept of December 2021 predicted, it will not be soon, obviously. Count on The Car Guide to keep you informed as soon as an official announcement comes out of Toyota headquarters.