NAIAS 2015: 2016 Toyota Tacoma Debuts
Following both Nissan and Ford, it’s now Toyota’s turn to show off its latest truck offering at the 2015 Detroit Auto Show, the 2016 Tacoma [Live photos now available – CA].
Power for the redesigned pickup comes from either a 2.7-liter four-pot or a 3.5-liter Atkinson cycle V6 with the automaker’s D-4S tech, which has both direct and port fuel injection. Both engines come with a standard six-speed automatic, but you’ll need to go for the V6 for the optional six-speed manual.
Five trim levels are available for the Tacoma: SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road and Limited. The TRD Off-Road trim, in particular, comes with an array of features, including: hill start assist; automatic limited slip and locking rear differential; clutch start cancel for manual transmissions; active traction control; and crawl control. All trims can be had in 4×2 and 4×4 configurations, and all have Toyota’s Star Safety System standard.
Other features available include a high-strength steel frame for better rigidity and strength; ultra-high strength steel body shell; power moonroof; smart key and push-button start; extensive NVH reduction; locking tailgate; standard GoPro camera mount; and wheel options ranging from 16 to 18 inches in size.
Seattle-based writer, blogger, and photographer for many a publication. Born in Louisville. Raised in Kansas. Where I lay my head is home.
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The biggest fly on the old Tacoma in my book was the uncomfortable seating position due to the high floorpan. From the interior shots that doesn't seem to have changed much, if at all. Not enthusiastic whatsoever about the powertrain. I know Toyota has the CAFE gun to their head just like everyone else. But all of this newly complex and expensive and then they run Atkinson and chop 500cc off to knock response and driveability right back to, probably below, where they started? If CAFE gaming and another $2000 under the hood is a given then I'd prefer forced injection torque and a smooth 8 speed to go with it. This is likely a preview of the next 4Runner powertrain. I would have bought the current 4Runner if its powertrain had sucked less. Looking like I won't buy the next 4Runner either. On the upside the interior looks pretty good for people whose legs fit in it, more attention to NVH is always good, they didn't go full Zamboni on the front fascia, it still has big upright glass. And it doesn't look manga catfish for a change.
I liked the current Tacoma but this new one looks great but it reminds me a bit of the face of I he Subaru Outback, which isn't bad at all. Sharp interior. Looking much better than the Chevy Colorado...