It was being compared to the Ford Ranger.
We are pleased to report that Toyota will not wait 14 years before launching a new generation Tacoma like it did with its larger Tundra. The pickup is currently in its third iteration. It has been around since 2015. However, it seems that a new version of the truck could be coming sooner than expected. A reader of the Fast Lane spotted the next-gen model in Las Vegas for the first time.
Toyota benchmarked the Tacoma against the Ford Ranger. This Ford Ranger is also preparing for its next generation debut in 2022. TFL speculates that the disguised prototype was equipped with a turbocharged engine, as the Blue Oval’s truck has forced induction. This could indicate that the naturally-aspirated 2.7-liter four cylinder and 3.5 liter V6 will be replaced with a turbo engine. It is likely to be a four-pot unit from other Toyota/Lexus models.
The 2023 Tacoma will likely switch to the TNGA F platform, which is shared with the Tundra and Land Cruiser. Toyota may merge the Hilux and Tacoma models to save significant money and create the 4Runner SUV using the same architecture. It is not yet clear if these models will receive the 10-speed automatic that is available in larger vehicles. According to Logic, the Sequoia SUV will be next to receive it.
Toyota tried to disguise the truck’s new styling but the front fascia gives the impression that it is a smaller Tundra. The tailgate’s extra cover is likely to hide the rear suspension setup. It could be changed to a multilink system with coil springs.
Reports claim that the Hilux and Tacoma will become one global model. This could also indicate that the Hilux-based Fortuner might be mechanically identical with the 4Runner.