Highlighting the 2026 Toyota Tacoma

Highlighting the 2026 Toyota Tacoma

For more than 20 years, the Toyota Tacoma has defined what a midsize pickup can be—and for 2026, it raises the bar once again. With bold new styling updates, powerful turbocharged and hybrid powertrains, next-level off-road capability, and cutting-edge technology, the 2026 Toyota Tacoma is built for drivers who expect their truck to handle workdays, weekends, and wild adventures with equal confidence.

 

Power That Matches Your Lifestyle

 

The 2026 Tacoma offers two compelling engine options, each designed to deliver strong performance and impressive efficiency:

 

Standard i-FORCE 2.4L Turbocharged Engine

 

Producing up to 278 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque, this engine balances everyday drivability with muscle. It delivers an EPA-estimated 26 MPG on the highway, and for purists, a six-speed intelligent manual transmission with rev-matching and stall avoidance is available on select models.

 

Available i-FORCE MAX Hybrid Powertrain

 

For drivers who want maximum capability, the i-FORCE MAX hybrid delivers a robust 326 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It also achieves an EPA-estimated 23 MPG combined and includes a standard 2400W AC power supply in both the cabin and bed—perfect for job sites or campsites.

 

Built to Conquer Every Terrain

 

Riding on Toyota’s TNGA-F global truck platform, shared with icons like the Tundra and Land Cruiser, the Tacoma blends strength with smart engineering. High-strength steel, reinforced frame crossmembers, and aluminum body panels improve rigidity while reducing weight.

 

A standout feature of the fourth-generation Tacoma is its coil spring multi-link rear suspension, available on most trims, which dramatically improves ride comfort and handling both on pavement and off-road.

 

Suspension tuning is tailored to each grade:

 

  • TRD Sport delivers a more responsive, on-road-focused drive.
  • TRD Off-Road features Bilstein® piggyback reservoir shocks for improved wheel travel and heat dissipation.
  • TRD Pro rides on TRD-tuned FOX® QS3 adjustable shocks with rear piggyback reservoirs and external bump stops.
  • Trailhunter uses Old Man Emu® forged monotube shocks optimized for overlanding and heavy loads.
  • Limited models now come standard with Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) for a smooth, refined ride.

 

All Tacomas include front and rear disc brakes and Electric Power Steering (EPS) for confident control and advanced safety integration.

 

Off-Road Mastery, Elevated

 

Tacoma’s legendary off-road reputation continues with advanced trail-ready technology. Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism (SDM) is standard on Trailhunter and TRD Pro and available on TRD Off-Road, allowing increased articulation at the push of a button.

 

Available off-road features include:

 

  • Multi-Terrain Select for optimized traction in mud, dirt, and sand
  • CRAWL Control, acting as low-speed off-road cruise control
  • Electronically locking rear differential
  • Downhill Assist Control

 

The available Multi-Terrain Monitor, displayed on the 14-inch touchscreen, helps drivers spot obstacles on tight trails. With standard underbody protection and recovery hooks across the lineup, Tacoma is ready to venture far beyond the pavement.

 

TRD Pro and Trailhunter: Purpose-Built Icons

 

For hardcore enthusiasts, Toyota offers two distinct off-road flagships:

 

TRD Pro

 

Inspired by Baja racing, the TRD Pro is powered exclusively by the i-FORCE MAX hybrid and features IsoDynamic Performance Front Seats, designed to reduce body movement and stabilize the head and neck on rough terrain. Exclusive styling elements include a heritage “TOYOTA” grille with an integrated LED light bar, RIGID Industries® LED fog lamps, and available two-tone paint—including the striking new Wave Maker color.

 

Trailhunter

 

Designed for overlanding straight from the factory, Trailhunter includes Old Man Emu® suspension, 33-inch Goodyear® Rugged-Terrain tires, ARB® steel rear bumper with recovery points, and an ARB® modular sport bar with removable MOLLE panels. It’s available with either a 5- or 6-foot bed and is ready for extended adventures right out of the box.

 

Capability You Can Count On

 

The 2026 Tacoma offers 2WD, part-time 4WD, and full-time 4WD, depending on trim. Limited models feature full-time 4WD with an electronic locking center differential, while most i-FORCE MAX models come standard with 4WD.

 

When it’s time to tow, Tacoma delivers with:

 

  • Up to 6,500 lbs. of towing capacity
  • Up to 1,705 lbs. of payload
  • Available trailer brake controller
  • Trailer Back Up Guide with Straight Path Assist
  • Digital rearview mirror and available Wireless Trailer Camera

 

A newly introduced manual headlight leveling switch helps reduce glare when towing or carrying heavy loads.

 

Tailored to Your Life

 

The Tacoma lineup spans SR, SR5, TRD PreRunner, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter, with Double Cab or XtraCab configurations and 5- or 6-foot beds.

 

The XtraCab maximizes utility with seating for two and a versatile rear storage area, including lockable compartments and a fold-flat passenger seat that doubles as a mobile workspace.

 

Luxury-minded drivers will appreciate the Limited trim, which offers heated and ventilated SofTex® seats, walnut burl-wood accents, power running boards, Head-Up Display, JBL® Premium Audio with a portable speaker, and a power moonroof.

 

Modern Technology, Seamlessly Integrated

 

Inside, Tacoma blends ruggedness with cutting-edge tech:

 

  • 8-inch standard or available 14-inch touchscreen
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
  • Qi wireless charging with enhanced output
  • USB-C ports throughout the cabin
  • 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster on i-FORCE MAX models

 

Available Digital Key allows smartphone-based access and starting, while the optional credit card-sized Card Key adds convenience for active lifestyles. Music lovers will enjoy the JBL® Premium Audio system with the removable JBL® FLEX portable speaker.

 

Safety Comes Standard

 

Every 2026 Tacoma includes Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, featuring:

 

  • Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
  • Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
  • Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
  • Lane Tracing Assist
  • Road Sign Assist
  • Automatic High Beams
  • Proactive Driving Assist

 

Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert adds another layer of confidence on busy roads and trails alike.

 

The Bottom Line

 

Proudly designed, engineered, and assembled in North America, the 2026 Toyota Tacoma continues its reign as America’s best-selling midsize pickup. With a starting MSRP of $32,145 (excluding delivery and handling), and arrivals expected at dealerships this winter, Tacoma proves once again that adventure isn’t just something you plan—it’s something you drive.

December 18, 2025
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