The next-generation Toyota Tacoma is expected to show up sometime in the next few months and launch as a 2024 model. There’s been plenty of speculation surrounding the midsize truck over the past couple of years, but new images appear to reveal the exterior design.
Discovered by Motor1, the renderings you see here are part of a patent filing with Brazil’s intellectual property agency—a bit strange considering that Toyota sells a different pickup (Hilux) over there.
Anyway, the vehicle sports a very familiar silhouette, which makes sense when you think about the success of the current Tacoma even after eight years. It also borrows some design cues from the larger Tundra. Look at the way the body panels are sculpted and how the headlights and taillights are arranged.
Others will say it looks a lot like the electric pickup concept Toyota showcased back in December 2021 when it announced plans to launch over 15 new EV models by 2030. We certainly don’t disagree. Of course, the biggest difference is the front grille, which is not closed on these patent renderings.
From what we can tell, the Tacoma will not go all-electric anytime soon. A few weeks ago, an insider source told The Fast Lane Trucks that the new generation will replace the 3.5-litre V6 with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine and even offer a Hybrid Max system combining said turbo-four with a pair of electric motors. That sounds pretty realistic to us.
Let’s go back to the black-and-white images for a minute. A subtle spoiler at the rear end of the cabin’s roof adds a sporty touch, while the diagonal line between the bed panels and rear bumper emphasizes the favourable departure angle. Based on the rugged-looking wheels and tires, we’d say this is some kind of TRD model for off-road driving.
The future Tacoma is projected to be built on a version of Toyota’s TNGA-F architecture that also underpins the Tundra and Sequoia. Combined with a new rear suspension, the result will be a more comfortable ride and more solid handling.
One thing’s for sure, the next generation of the Toyota Tacoma is highly anticipated, especially with three of its closest competitors (Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, Ford Ranger) getting a full redesign of their own. We’ll keep you posted as soon as we have more details or pictures to share.
Keyword: This is What the Redesigned Toyota Tacoma Could Look Like