It’s no secret that a diesel version of Tacoma is one of the most anticipated models among truck enthusiasts. The closest rival, Chevy Colorado, offers a diesel version for years. The newcomers Ford Ranger and Jeep Gladiator are about to offer their versions with oil-burners as well. As a segment leader, the Japanese truck needs such a version as well. Benefits from such an engine would be various. In this article, we will speculate about 2020 Toyota Tacoma Diesel specs and towing capacity.
2020 Toyota Tacoma Diesel Specs
When it comes to 2020 Toyota Tacoma Diesel specs, there isn’t much room for surprises. At this point, Toyota doesn’t have too many diesel engines in its lineup that could be a good suit to this truck. More precisely, there is just one engine that comes to our minds. It is a 2.8-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel, which powers various Toyota models. Those who are unfamiliar with this unit may presume that no U.S. model comes with it in the offer. Diesels are primarily offered on abroad markets and this one is available in the Australian version of the legendary HiLux, as well as in the luxurious Toyota Land Cruiser Prado in markets around the world.
In these two vehicles, it is rated at 177 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. Considering that the Tacoma is bigger and heavier than HiLux, we could expect to see some modifications on it. Therefore, the 2020 Toyota Tacoma Diesel specs would probably include power increase. We count on about 200 horsepower and notably more torque if Toyota wants to match Colorado’s amazing capabilities.
Towing Capacity
One of the biggest advantages of diesel engines is an impressive amount of torque. Therefore, such engines usually provide significantly higher towing capacity. The current Tacoma comes with two gasoline engines in the offer. The base one is good for about 180 pound-feet of torque. So, you definitely can’t count on any spectacular towing capacity. Moreover, numbers are pretty unimpressive, as models with this engine can tow up to 3.500 pounds, which is in a range of a common mid-size crossover. Fortunately, things are much better with a V6 engine, which is good for about 265 pound-feet of torque, which is enough for a max towing capacity of up to 6.800 pounds.
These are pretty decent numbers for the class, but still far away from models like Colorado Diesel, which can tow for about 1.000 pounds more. Therefore, expectations in terms of 2020 Toyota Tacoma Diesel towing capacity are pretty big. We expect that this version will be able to tow at least 7.500 pounds if Toyota wants to be competitive in the segment.
When to expect 2020 Toyota Tacoma Diesel?
These 2020 Toyota Tacoma Diesel specs and towing capacity sound great. However, the fact is that we are still waiting for official confirmation. Therefore, take this article with a reserve, considering that a diesel Tacoma is just a rumor at the moment. The main reason why we believe that this version will eventually come is that rivals are preparing or already have such models. Benefits from diesel engines are numerous. It’s not just about towing capacity, but these engines are also characterized by impressive fuel economy and Tacoma’s gasoline engines are pretty thirsty.