We give Toyota credit score the place it is due. The automaker has accomplished an excellent job of protecting the brand new Tacoma midsize truck beneath wraps. We imply that actually and figuratively, as that is solely the second time we have seen a check car in public. And it is nonetheless nicely hid beneath heavy camouflage.
Really, they are nicely hid. The oldsters over at TFLnow occurred upon a fleet of Tacomas, every coated nostril to tail whereas taking a break from testing within the mountains. With cameras rolling, we get an in depth view of 1 prototype turning round in an empty lot, exhibiting a side-exit exhaust on the rear of the truck just like the Toyota Tundra. The digicam additionally zooms in on one other prototype, catching a portion of the grille that bears appreciable resemblance to the Tundra. Nonetheless, the smaller wheel/tire combo and cab proportions scream Tacoma.
If there’s any doubt about these being Toyota autos, a number of commenters within the video name out the automaker’s distinctive locking beep heard across the 1:13 mark. Sadly, different aural clues similar to engine or exhaust noise are inconceivable to listen to. A Jeep Grand Wagoneer and Chevrolet Suburban look like a part of the fleet, and we primarily hear the Jeep’s engine because the autos exit the lot. It isn’t a hasty exit, which is nice for getting a transparent look. The trade-off is that we do not hear what’s beneath the hood.
Engine choices are a well-kept secret at this level. The present Tacoma presents a alternative between a 2.7-liter four-cylinder making 159 horsepower (118 kilowatts) or a 278-hp (207-kW) 3.5-liter V6. It is believed a brand new turbocharged four-cylinder will be a part of the fray, however it’s unclear if it is going to be a part of the prevailing mills or be the Tacoma’s sole powerplant. Additional complicating issues is a powerful rumor that the brand new Taco will use Toyota’s TNGA-F platform. It is already in use with quite a few fashions together with the Tundra, and it is anticipated to underpin Toyota’s international Hilux and Fortuner autos. An electrical mannequin may ultimately arrive as nicely.
The present-generation Tacoma arrived for the 2016 mannequin 12 months and acquired a facelift for 2020. With that timeframe in thoughts, we may see the next-gen truck debut as quickly as 2023.
