- The next Tacoma is expected to debut in 2023 as a 2024 model year
- A new interior should drag it into this century
- Significant powertrain and suspension changes are also in the cards
The hits just keep on coming for fans of right-sized trucks in North America. In addition to a host of new or revamped models occupying the segment, it seems we’re closer than ever to finally seeing big changes for the very popular Toyota Tacoma.
Our photogs managed to snag a few shots of the interior of this test mule, seen plying the streets of California (remember, Toyota has its Calty Design Research outfit located in Newport Beach). While there are layers of thick material camouflage covering much of the cabin, some critical components are notably visible – such as the gauges, shifter, and infotainment system.
Starting with the latter, we see a Tundra-esque tablet glued to the dashboard, taking up real estate atop the centre stack. Close squinting at the photos suggests there is an enormous black bezel around the screen in this truck, suggesting this could be an entry-level trim which deploys a smaller display compared to top-of-the-line rigs. Big bro Tundra comes with a choice of 8-inch or 14-inch screens, which is what we hope will be on offer in the Tacoma as well.
Further south we see an automatic transmission shifter, one which can be grasped by a gloved hand and shoved firmly into gear. This doesn’t mean it is not electronic, however; witness the any number of trucks which use a similar lever which ultimately just sends electronic signals to the truck’s brain. Manufacturers could use buttons, dials, or a tiller from Jack Sparrow’s pirate ship – it doesn’t make any difference to the computer. It does make a difference to some truck buyers, of course, such as the ninnies who make fun of Ram’s dial selector.
There aren’t many new observations to be gleaned from the exterior, other than to continue speculation that this thing is likely to be Tundra Lite. Eyebrow furrowing camo sprouts from the back bumper towards the ground like crazed cloth-based stalactites, suggesting changes are in store for the rear suspension.
While the model has a legion of diehard fans, the Tacoma no longer plays in a market largely bereft of competition. Nissan recently re-upped its Frontier, GM just launched new Colorado/Canyon twins with a dandy interior, and Ford is on the cusp of unleashing a fresh Ranger – one whose range will include a burly Raptor variant. This new Tacoma will have much stiffer rivals when it goes on sale.
Keyword: 2024 Toyota Tacoma spied testing in California