Tacoma is the most popular mid-size pickup truck in North America. Therefore, it’s no wonder that we are already getting all kinds of 2021 Toyota Tacoma news, which suggests updates and changes, even though we saw an update just recently. Still, it looks like than many truck enthusiasts were expecting more from the 2020 model years, so they believe this small amount of changes actually indicates a complete overhaul in the near future, sooner than you would probably expect.
All these things are the reason why we are about to go through all 2021 Toyota Tacoma rumors and speculations, about possible changes, tweaks and more. This includes potential new engine options, mechanical changes, new features etc.
2021 Toyota Tacoma Engines
The first thing that comes to mind is a large number of rumors about the 2021 Toyota Tacoma engine. The same stories were about the 2020 model year, as various reports are suggesting new engine options, particularly in terms of diesel and hybrid versions. However, these things didn’t happen in the recent update, so the current model carries on with two familiar gasoline units.
Base versions are equipped with a 2.7-liter four-cylinder unit that delivers around 160 horsepower. Higher trims come with a 3.5-liter V6, which is good for about 278 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. The weak point of both engines is fuel economy and that’s the main reason why many believe there’s a chance to see new engines in the next year.
Diesel
When it comes to a diesel engine, things are pretty clear. Toyota doesn’t have many diesel options that could find a place in the new Tacoma. Therefore, a well-known 2.8-liter turbodiesel that powers HiLux seems like a natural choice. The engine is good for about 177 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. Obviously, fuel economy would be much better. Another huge benefit would be significantly improved towing capacity. The new version would be able to match class-leading Colorado and its 7.700 pounds of max towing capacity.
Hybrid
A diesel option sounds great, but the hybrid powertrain is what Toyota does best. Therefore, we have no doubt that future Tacomas will feature such powertrain options. It may not be ready for the next year, but the hybrid version will definitely come in the near future. According to most reports, there are two options for a new hybrid powertrain. The first one would be the same system that powers the new Highlander. It is a four-cylinder-based system, with around 240 horsepower. With such powertrain, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma would be able to make 30+ mpg with ease. However, its towing capacity probably wouldn’t be at the highest possible level.
Therefore, many believe in a V6-based hybrid system, similar to one we can find in Lexus models. It delivers around 350 horsepower, which would be more than enough to provide excellent towing ratings while keeping fuel economy at a decent level.
In any case, both hybrid and diesel models don’t seem very likely for the next year. We are pretty sure that one of these powertrain options, most likely only hybrid, will come with the complete redesign, which is expected in the near future.
2021 Toyota Tacoma Changes
Of course, new engine options aren’t the only thing many truckers expect to see in the next-year model. There are 2021 Toyota Tacoma changes to seem far more likely. For example, we could see tweaks in terms of standard equipment, though we have to say that the recent update has already brought pretty significant improvements in these aspects. There is a new infotainment system, with smartphone integrations, as well as with many other advanced tech functions.
Also, the new model is available with a driver’s adjustable power seat. Among many notable changes, new camera-based systems called Panoramic and Multi-Terrain view monitors, which show everything that’s happening around and underneath the vehicle. Currently, these systems are available in higher trims only, so the 2021 Toyota Tacoma could make it more accessible in base versions.
2021 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro
When it comes to the 2021 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, we don’t expect to see any particular changes. The recent update has brought a lot of novelties. There are new Fox bypass shocks, while the whole truck has been lifted for about an inch. Also, the new model comes with a new Army Green color options, which is TRD Pro’s exclusive feature.
Toyota Tacoma Redesign
For many experts and truck enthusiasts, the recent update hasn’t brought desired changes. That’s the main reason why many reports suggest the 2021 Toyota Tacoma redesign. We are pretty sure that won’t happen so soon. Still, there are many reasons to believe that a complete overhaul could happen already in a couple of years.
Not only that the recent update has brought subtle and quite modest changes, but we should also consider that the next-generation Tundra is on its way. The full-size truck will come completely new next year and it will ride on a new platform, codenamed F1. This architecture is modular, so it will be used for all BoF vehicles from Toyota, including Tacoma. In practice, this means significantly less time for development is required, which may be one of the reasons for soon redesign.
2021 Toyota Tacoma Release Date and Price
All in all, the next year probably won’t bring too many changes, despite the rumors. Therefore, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma release date should be scheduled for the last quarter of the next year. When it comes to the price, base models should go around 26.000 dollars.