2027 Toyota TacomaMotorTrend - MotorTrend (MotorTrend - MotorTrend)Modernized without losing soulHybrid adds serious torqueVastly improved interior techSignificantly pricier than beforeRear legroom still tightSome rivals are quickerThe Toyota Tacoma has long been the default answer for midsize truck buyers who wanted durability, resale value, and off-road credibility, even if that meant living with an aging design. This latest generation finally brings the Tacoma’s everyday driving experience, technology, and powertrains closer to modern expectations without abandoning the rugged identity that made it an icon.AdvertisementAdvertisementCompetitors include the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, and Nissan Frontier.What’s NewMajor changes don’t appear likely for the 2027 Toyota Tacoma. Given how recently the current generation arrived and how modest the latest round of updates has been, the safest expectation is another incremental update year, with equipment, trim, and appearance tweaks more likely than significant mechanical or styling changes.This page will be updated with more insights and photos as information becomes available.What We ThinkThe latest Toyota Tacoma has finally shed its stone age personality, evolving from a rugged but unrefined tool into a sophisticated midsize pickup. By fixing many of its predecessor’s ergonomic and mechanical grievances, Toyota has created a truck that’s no longer just the default choice for reliability but a genuine pleasure to drive daily.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe move to a turbocharged four-cylinder lineup provides a one-two punch that finally addresses the Tacoma’s historical power deficit. The standard i-Force engine is a good one, trading the old V-6’s lack of refinement for a smooth, accessible low-end torque that makes daily commuting effortless.Stepping up to the i-Force Max hybrid turns the Tacoma into a midsize torque monster, using electric assistance to provide instantaneous response. Both powertrains benefit from the new coil-spring rear suspension found on most models, which replaces the archaic "truck bounce" of yesteryear with a level of highway composure that finally matches the truck's modern look.Inside, the leap forward is equally dramatic. The cabin finally accommodates humans comfortably thanks to improved seating positions, and the massive 14.0-inch touchscreen and modern infotainment software bring the truck’s tech suite into the 21st century. While some interior plastics still feel a bit utilitarian, the overall layout is a massive ergonomic win.Progress does come with a few asterisks, specifically regarding the window sticker and the rear bench. The new Tacoma is significantly more expensive than the model it replaces, and despite the new platform, rear-seat legroom remains surprisingly tight. It’s a more capable and refined machine, but you’ll certainly pay a premium for those upgrades.AdvertisementAdvertisementUltimately, Toyota has managed the rare feat of modernizing an icon without stripping away its soul. The new Tacoma is a polished, tech-forward, and immensely capable rig that proves you don't have to tolerate an archaic driving experience to enjoy legendary durability.Top-Ranked Competitors:Ford RangerChevrolet ColoradoNissan FrontierMotorTrend TestedThe current Tacoma offers two powertrains. Most models use a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four paired with an eight-speed automatic, though a six-speed manual is still available.Rear-wheel drive is standard on some versions, while four-wheel drive is optional or standard depending on trim. In standard i-Force form, the Tacoma makes 278 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque, enough to get a 4WD model from 0 to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds in our testing.AdvertisementAdvertisementTacoma hybrids use the i-Force Max setup, which adds an electric motor to the eight-speed automatic and raises output to 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque. Four-wheel drive is standard here. That extra muscle helps, but not by much: The hybrid needed 7.1 seconds to reach 60 mph in our testing.The Ford Ranger tells a slightly different story. Its gas-only 2.7-liter twin-turbo V-6 makes 315 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque, putting it between the two Tacomas on paper. Even so, it was notably quicker at the test track, hitting 60 mph in just 6.3 seconds.MPGs and RangeChoose the manual, and the Tacoma is rated at about 18/23 mpg city/highway, enough for roughly 364 miles of range.The automatic does better. Depending on configuration, it returns 19-21/23-26 mpg city/highway and can stretch as far as 419 miles on a tank.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe hybrid is aimed more at boosting muscle than maximizing efficiency, but it still helps a little. It checks in at 22–23/24 mpg city/highway, with maximum range also reaching 419 miles.That puts the Tacoma in familiar company. A non-Raptor Ford Ranger 4WD with the V-6 matches the manual Tacoma at 18/23 mpg, though its smaller fuel tank trims max range to about 360 miles.Safety Ratings and FeaturesThis Tacoma earns about the same safety ratings as the previous generation. Even though it receives almost all good grades in IIHS testing (save for acceptable scores in headlight assessments and LATCH ease of use), it falls short of the institute’s top designations. NHTSA gives the truck a four-star overall rating, one star shy of the top prize.Standard safety tech includes:AdvertisementAdvertisementFront automatic emergency brakingAdaptive cruise controlLane keep assistAutomatic high-beamsTowing and Payload CapacityFor the highest towing capacity in the lineup, look to the i-Force gasoline Tacoma XtraCab, which handles up to 6,500 pounds (excluding the entry-level SR).Opting for the Double Cab drops that limit by 100 pounds, while the base SR manages 3,500 pounds. Meanwhile, the i-Force Max hybrid models are rated between 5,950 and 6,000 pounds.Payload ratings vary significantly across the range, starting at a modest 1,230 pounds for 4WD XtraCab models equipped with the base gas engine. At the top end, the hybrid-powered Double Cab configurations offer the most utility with a maximum payload of 1,710 pounds.TechnologyInfotainmentBase Tacomas feature a 7.0-inch driver display and an 8.0-inch touchscreen, and higher trims upgrade to 12.3-inch and 14.0-inch units, respectively. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the lineup, alongside two (and up to five, depending on trim) USB ports, though a wireless charging pad requires stepping up from the base grade.Sound SystemThe Tacoma offers three distinct audio configurations depending on the trim: a basic four-speaker setup on the entry-level SR, a six-speaker system for midrange models, and a premium 10-speaker JBL audio suite on high-end grades.AdvertisementAdvertisementFor an added touch of utility, some versions equipped with the JBL system also feature a removable Bluetooth speaker that docks directly into the dashboard.Available UpgradesThe Tacoma offers several key factory upgrades designed to enhance its off-road capability. High-end trims like the TRD Pro and Trailhunter feature specialized Fox internal-bypass or Old Man Emu shocks for superior damping on rough terrain.For increased trail agility, an available Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism boosts front-wheel articulation at the push of a button. Additionally, buyers can opt for an electronically locking rear differential and rugged underbody skidplates to ensure maximum traction and protection during technical crawls.ValueStandard FeaturesThe 2027 Tacoma lineup is expected to start around $35,000 for the entry-level model. While the base trim remains a focused workhorse with 17-inch steel wheels, leaf-spring rear suspension, and a four-speaker audio system, it doesn’t skimp on the essentials. Standard across every model is a punchy powertrain and a comfortable, modern cabin.Recommended TrimThe TRD Off-Road is the best trim for most buyers, as it strikes an ideal balance between everyday usability and trail capability.
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