The next-generation Toyota Tacoma is on the horizon. Inspired by the redesigned Toyota Tundra, a recent rendering reveals the next-gen Tacoma is most likely to share similar styling cues and equally modern mechanical components.
After the debut of the 2023 Toyota Tundra and 2023 Sequoia, the next big launch from Toyota is likely to be the next-gen Tacoma mid-size bakkie. While Toyota keeps details under wraps, the model follows in the footsteps of its older sibling and adopts a muscular design that features sharp lines as well as heavily styled bodywork. Recent renderings have been created that use the official patent images as a basis. Offering a familiar fascia, featuring rectangular fog lights and air curtains that are integrated into the front fender flares. The expected Tacoma TRD will also use the same TNGA-F architecture, essentially a body-on-frame platform that underpins the new Tundra and the Sequoia.
Along the sides, this rendered bakkie has a lifted suspension, riding on black wheels with sizable tyres for venturing onto the path less travelled. The Tacoma has TRD Pro emblems on the front doors and the bed, there are no significant changes to the back, but the bakkie also sports a plain rear bumper and is flanked by C-shaped taillights. The images highlight the higher ride height that would improve the truck’s approach, break-over, and departure angles.
The current Toyota Tacoma touts the Star Safety System, which includes Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist and Smart Stop brake override technology. Every Tacoma has the driver and front passenger Advanced Airbag System, driver and front passenger knee airbags and front and rear Roll-sensing Side Curtain Airbags. Active head restraints for the Tacoma’s front seats are designed to move up and slightly forward during a rear-end collision to help reduce the risk of whiplash. Additional standard safety features include a Tyre Pressure Monitor System.
Details remain unconfirmed, but the current 2,7-litre four-cylinder and 3,5-litre V6 are expected to be replaced by a turbocharged 2,4-litre four-cylinder developing around 198 kW of power and 420 N.m of torque. Buyers will allegedly be able to get a hybrid version of the 2,4-liter turbo engine that is already available in other vehicles from the automaker. The powerplant makes 272 kW of power and 550 N.m of torque in the Lexus RX 500h and 253 kW and 542 N.m in the Toyota Crown.
Related: Could this be what the next generation Toyota Hilux could look like?
Although the Tacoma isn’t offered on sale in South Africa, rumours have emerged that the Hilux may borrow some styling cues from its American counterpart so we could potentially expect a similar-looking bakkie on our roads towards the end of the decade.
