Official: Toyota teases TRD Pro Tacoma for Chicago / News & Updates

[vh_supra26]

Toyota teases new Tacoma for Chicago, could be the TRD Pro
Toyota has announced plans to introduce a mysterious new model at the Chicago Auto Show on February 11th.

The company is keeping details under wraps but the teaser image appears to show a rugged new version of the Tacoma. Nothing is official at this point, but the company could be teasing the Tacoma TRD Pro as image shows the truck will eschew the traditional Toyota logo for a revised grille with "Toyota" badging. This is a relatively minor change but it's been a hallmark of TRD Pro models since they originally debuted at the 2014 Chicago Auto Show.

Toyota is keeping details under wraps but the previous-generation Tacoma TRD Pro was equipped with a 2-inch front lift, a TRD exhaust system, and 16-inch beadlock-style wheels with BFGoodrich All-Terrain tires. The truck was also had a front skid plate, Bilstein shocks, a TRD shifter, and special floor mats.

Little else is known about the model but the standard Tacoma can be equipped with two different engines. The entry-level 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine produces 159 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque, while the optional 3.5-liter V6 develops 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque.

http://www.worldcarfans.com/11602091...be-the-trd-pro

[MisterSheep]

Can't wait for the reveal

[Atropine]

I have a 2013 4Runner Trail Edition and love it...

If I had the need for a truck...this would be my pick...

[MisterSheep]

Originally Posted by Atropine

I have a 2013 4Runner Trail Edition and love it...

If I had the need for a truck...this would be my pick...

I'm currently driving a 2015 Tacoma TRD off-road 4x4 as my rental car while my car is at the dealer and I'm not looking forward to giving it back...

[phm14]

Loving my '16 TRD Off Road. Already upgraded the tires, wheels and suspension. Thought about waiting for the TRD Pro, but didn't on the possibility they will continue to offer only black, white or orange color options. Have my eye on that retro TRD Pro grill to replace the chrome OEM unit on my truck. Here's a pic from a detour in Moab where I drove parts of Hell's Revenge, Fin and Things, and Baby Lions back. That's mostly salt on the truck from snowboarding further north. Those Toyos have been moved to our 4Runner Trail and replaced with BFG KO2s.

[MisterSheep]

Originally Posted by phm14

Loving my '16 TRD Off Road. Already upgraded the tires, wheels and suspension. Thought about waiting for the TRD Pro, but didn't on the possibility they will continue to offer only black, white or orange color options. Have my eye on that retro TRD Pro grill to replace the chrome OEM unit on my truck. Here's a pic from a detour in Moab where I drove parts of Hell's Revenge, Fin and Things, and Baby Lions back. That's mostly salt on the truck from snowboarding further north. Those Toyos have been moved to our 4Runner Trail and replaced with BFG KO2s.

Nice truck! the one I'm driving currently is the dark blue color and it looks so good

[vh_supra26]

[ame]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kHmUfHbt-dk[/ame]

The Toyota Tacoma has been sold in its current form for nearly a full decade, getting only minor updates in that time. By today’s fast moving auto market standards, which see some companies replacing models every five years, that is ancient.

FAST FACTS
Engine: 2.7L 4cyl. with 159 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque or 3.5L V6 with 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque.
Transmission: Six-speed auto and manual. Five-speed manual on trucks with 2.7L.
Fuel Economy: V6 4x4 auto 18 mpg city, 23 mpg hwy, 20 mpg combined.
Pricing: $24,200 to start. $38,720 for Limited 4x4 V6 auto (top trim).

And while the Tacoma is still the best selling midsize pickup truck, the new competent offerings from General Motors, the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon, are closing that sales gap. To keep the Tacoma relevant in a quickly developing market, Toyota is bringing its midsize truck into the modern decade with new technology inside and under the hood.

Interior Overhaul
Let’s start with the interior, easily the biggest change you’ll find on the new 2016 Tacoma. Fresh style comes courtesy of an all-new dash design that gives the truck a modern feel, something the last Tacoma desperately lacked. A 4.2-inch display comes standard on most trucks, while 6- and 7-inch touchscreens are available. A slick integrated design for each one of these screens goes a long way to making the truck feel fresh along with an optional body color dash surround which ties the whole interior together.

Five trim levels are available with the new Tacoma which from bottom to top are: SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road and Limited. While cloth seats are standard fare on four out of five trims, the Limited gets leather seats and hickory trim, along with some other goodies like an upgraded JBL audio system. TRD models get unique seats finished in black and orange with contrast stitching, playing up the fun aspect of the off-road specific models.

Other major improvements include the addition of optional Qi wireless charging, push-button start, sunroof and blind-spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert.

A new standard GoPro mount has been added as well, so that you can capture your adventures, on and off road. While the mount worked great for us (you can see footage using the mount in the video review), having it so far from the driver makes it hard to reach, limiting it to a feature that the driver shouldn’t use while on the go.



Finally, a New Engine

The Tacoma has a new engine and it’s about damn time. It is a 3.5-liter V6 capable of running on the Atkinson cycle which produces 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. That puts it up 42 hp over the old 4.0-liter V6, but actually down 1 lb-ft of torque.

Like most people, your first question is probably, what the hell is Atkinson cycle? First off, it’s nothing new, with the process patented in the U.S. back in the 1880’s. The short technical answer is: the intake valve stays open a little longer than usual, creating a shorter compression stroke. This means that there is less pressure on the piston when it compresses the air/gas mixture, resulting in less parasitic drag.

So why should you care? Because this old technology should help this new Tacoma be quite a bit more efficient.

While official EPA numbers aren’t available yet, Toyota’s predictions have the Tacoma pegged at 17 mpg in the city, 21 on the highway and a combined 19 mpg for the V6 4×4 model with a manual transmission while the automatic is supposed to get 18 mpg in the city, 23 mpg highway and 20 mpg combined. The two-wheel drive model with the automatic transmission is rated at 19 mpg city, 24 highway and 21 mpg combined.

In our time with Tacoma, which stretched over a 50 – 60 mile drive route that included a little more city than highway, we averaged just over 16 mpg, falling short of Toyota’s marks. But where the truck seemed to excel was on the highway. Sitting with the cruise control at 70 mph, our mpg meter read between 25 and 26 mpg, a respectable number that over time would probably drag that average up.

These estimates put the Tacoma right in line with the Chevy Colorado V6 4×4 which is also rated at 20 mpg combined.

The Drive
In driving the new Tacoma, there is a sense of familiarity, but also some notable changes, the biggest of which is the lack of interior cabin noise. That quiet atmosphere along with the truck’s newly tuned suspension offer a comfortable ride which helps the Tacoma feel refined, or in other words, like it belongs in the year 2016. This was the one major difference between the existing Tacoma and its new rivals, but Toyota has made sure that refinement was a priority on this truck to keep it competitive.

Proportionally, the 2016 model is nearly identical to 2015, the biggest difference being the 2016 is a few inches longer, an unnoticeable change while piloting the new truck.

Familiarity also comes with the engine and with the steering. The new Tacoma makes up for its loss of 1 lb-ft of torque by offering a beefier axle ratio of 3.90:1 over the current truck’s 3.73:1. Thanks to that change, it’s pretty hard to distinguish this new V6 from the old 4.0-liter. There is plenty of power for this small truck and torque down low is adequate. The new six-speed automatic loves to downshift and give you more power immediately, while shifts are smooth.

One of this engine’s biggest tricks is that it can switch between Atkinson and the more conventional Otto cycle. While under load, Otto cycle kicks in to deliver maximum power, while highway cruising sees the motor running in Atkinson to help save fuel, and the switch between the two is completely seamless.

Steering feel remains quite good, with a great connected setup that keeps your in hands aware of what the front wheels are doing at all times.



Our first outing with the Tacoma did not include any towing or payload hauling, though the ratings are in. The 2016 Tacoma will tow a maximum of 6,800 lbs while maximum payload is rated at 1,620, although the popular 4×4 double cab V6 automatic is only rated to haul 1,120 lbs of payload.

While the drive is hugely improved, the seating position in the new Tacoma remains a problem. The lack of a driver’s side footwell keeps my leg uncomfortably straight, while the 39.7-inches of front headroom is barely enough to accommodate me, mainly due to the driver’s seat not being able to drop low enough. What’s even worse though is the back seat of the double cab models. Double cab rear seat legroom stays identical for 2016 at 32.6-inches, while 38.3-inches of rear headroom has my head on the ceiling.

What may have been acceptable 10 years ago for people hauling is certainly not today, especially considering the backseat of the Canyon/Colorado crew cab, with 35.8-inches of legroom, is actually big enough for an adult to sit in over a long period of time.

Hit the Dirt

Off-road prowess has always been part of the Tacoma’s DNA and the 2016 has been made even better. Even though a plastic air dam has been added in the front to improve fuel economy, the 2016 Tacoma sports an approach angle of 29 degrees and a departure angle of 23 degrees. Opting for the TRD Off-road model eliminates the air dam, giving the truck a 32 degree approach, easily the best in the segment and even better than the 2015 Tacoma TRD Pro.

Besides the excellent height, two new systems have been added to aid with hitting the trails. The first, crawl control, is nothing new to Toyota, coming from the 4Runner and Land Cruiser. This system allows you to set a predetermined speed between about 2 and 5 mph and forget about the pedals. The truck will keep you at the same constant speed despite inclines or obstacles, allowing you to focus on the steering.

TacomaOffroad1The second added system is multi-terrain select, allowing you to choose between rock, sand and mud modes, each of which will tailor the truck’s torque distribution to suit that specific terrain.

In our short time off-road with the new Tacoma, both setups worked exceptionally well, making the Tacoma the clear choice in the segment for heading off the beaten path.

What’s It Cost?

Base price for the 2016 Tacoma SR begins at $24,200 including destination, while the top-trim Limited V6 4×4 model will sell for $38,720. Both the TRD Sport and TRD Off-road models have the same price starting price, going for $31,665.

At its base, that makes the Tacoma roughly $4,000 more expensive than its American counterparts, though as you go up in trim level, pricing seems fairly competitive.



The Verdict: 2016 Toyota Tacoma Review
The overhaul of the Toyota Tacoma can certainly be described as modest. Toyota did just enough to make the Tacoma a relevant purchase option, without pushing hard to try and outdo its competition.

But they did hit the right points, refining the drive of the truck significantly, improving the fuel economy and bringing the interior out of last decade, making this Tacoma a strong option in the midsize pickup segment.

Let’s just hope we don’t have to wait another 10 years for another major update.

LOVE IT
Improved fuel economy
Interior
Transmission

LEAVE IT
Seating position
Rear seat space

http://www.autoguide.com/manufacture...-tacoma-review

[NyC Zn6]

i love Tacoma's especially the X-runner as i want one so bad

[Quentin]

Bad as can be.


Sent from Tandy 400

[vh_supra26]

[ame]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gvFnhPiGVMs[/ame]

Toyota has taken the wraps off the 2017 Tacoma TRD Pro.

Set to go on sale this fall, the off-road focused model is based on the Tacoma TRD Off-Road 4x4 Double Cab and features a heritage-inspired "Toyota" grille, a blacked out hood scoop, and 16-inch alloy wheels with a black finish. The model also has an aluminum front skid plate, LED fog lights, and projector-beam headlights with black bezels and integrated LED daytime running lights. Other highlights include black fender flares and Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain tires with Kevlar reinforcements.

The unique styling continues in the cabin as designers added black leather seats with TRD Pro embroidery on the headrests. The model also has a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a TRD shifter, and an Entune infotainment system. Rounding out the changes are TRD floor mats and a 4.2-inch multi-information display with integrated inclinometer and tilt gauges.

Power is provided by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 278 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. It can be connected to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. Regardless of which gearbox is selected, the Tacoma TRD Pro comes standard with four-wheel drive and an electronic limited-slip differential.

Since the model was designed to go off-roading, engineers installed FOX 2.5 Internal Bypass shocks and TRD-tuned front springs with a 1-inch lift. The model also has a unique rear suspension with progressive-rate off-road leaf springs.

http://www.worldcarfans.com/11602111...-goodies-video

[BRZZZZZZZZZZ]

Looks badass. Unfortunately for me they messed up the seating positing on the 3rd gens and I can't get comfortable in them. I sold my 2nd gen two months ago and regret it, despite it being one of the greatest financial decisions I have ever made.

[vh_supra26]

Aggressively designed pickup trucks with increased off-road capabilities seem to be the new fad nowadays, but unlike Ford’s F-150 Raptor, Toyota’s new Tacoma TRD Pro doesn’t add any improvements under the hood.

Presented in a world premiere at the Chicago Auto Show today, the 2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro sticks with the same 278hp 3.5-Liter V6 powering the other models in the range (in comparison, Ford’s upcoming Raptor will get a 3.5L twin-turbo V6 with more power than the current 411hp 6.2L V8), with only an exhaust system enhancement. The V6 can be paired to either a 6-speed manual (with clutch start-cancel switch) or a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Where the Pro really shines in the Tacoma lineup is in the cosmetic and suspension departments.

Based on the Tacoma TRD Off-Road 4x4 Double Cab Short Bed, the Pro rides on new FOX 2.5 Internal Bypass shocks and TRD springs on the front with a 1-inch lift, and a TRD-tuned suspension with progressive-rate off-road leaf spring on the rear.

On the outside, it wears a tougher looking suite with 16-inch TRD black alloy wheels on Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Kevlar-reinforced tires, an aluminum skid plate on the front, LED fog lights and DRLs, and a classic Toyota emblem on the blacked out grille. Elsewhere, it gets color-keyed power outside mirrors with turn signal indicators and door handles, plus black fender moldings and hood scoop trimmings.

Inside, Toyota upgraded the TRD Pro model with leather-trimmed seats featuring the edition’s logo on the headrests, and TRD-branded shift knob and floor mats, while standard features include navigation, rear parking assist, Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.

Toyota said it will release pricing when the truck hits US dealers in the fall this year.

http://www.carscoops.com/2016/02/201...o-is-like.html

[MisterSheep]

thanks toyota!

[vh_supra26]

Pros

• Off-Road Ability
• Options Packages
• Latest Safety Technology

Cons

• City/Highway Ride
• Uncomfortable Seats
• Lacks Power in Higher Altitudes

Is there a better place to check out the new Toyota Tacoma TRD Off Road 4X4 than the mountains of Colorado? We took out the new TRD Off Road with 4WD to see how it performs in the snow and dirt trails in Colorado’s high country, west of Denver. If the truck performs well here, it will handle anything you can throw at it.

This week we drove the 2016 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off Road 4X4 Double Cab with a six-speed automatic transmission. It also had a tow package and technology upgrades.

We drove the 2016 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport 4X4 Double Cab a few weeks ago.

What’s New?

The 2016 Toyota Tacoma is powered by a new 3.5-liter V6 engine and more available off-road performance. Outside it gets fresh styling, a new cabin structure, a new transmission, retuned suspension, and improved noise insulation. The interior has also been upgraded.

Features & Options

2016 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road ($33,730) models are built for the back country where drove this week. It comes equipped with an off-road suspension, Bilstein shocks, and Multi-Terrain Select system. It also gets unique body trim, special 16-inch alloy wheels and chin-spoiler delete (to improve the truck’s off-road ability). Other off-road goodies include an electronic locking rear differential, and the Crawl Control system, for off-road maneuvers between 1 and 5 mph.

This TRD Off Road tester came with the Premium Technology Package ($2,330) that includes dual zone climate control, heated front seats, rear parking sonar, blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert, auto-headlights, and moonroof. It also featured the optional V6 Tow Package ($650) that included a class IV towing receiver, ATF cooler, engine oil cooler, power steering cooler, 130amp alternator, 4 and 7 pin connector, and trailer sway control.

Total MSRP including destination: $37,610.

Interior Highlights

The TRD Off Road interior is essentially the same as the TRD Sport 4X4 Double Cab we tested earlier this year. It comes with a high floor and low roof that carries over from the previous generation model. You need to watch your head getting into the cab and it can feel cramped inside for taller drivers. Our tester came with an attractive, all-black interior with lots of soft-touch materials throughout. It featured plenty of storage and Toyota even added a convenient cell phone charging pad in front of the gear shifter.

Like the TRD Sport 4X4 Double Cab, we thought the front seat had limited adjustment capabilities and offered minimal support. The steering wheel tilts/telescopes making it easier to find the right driving position, however. A rear backup camera made backing up easier which was helpful in the city parking lots. Double Cab models feature a full-size rear seat, (split 70/30) and flip up to reveal convenient under seat storage to stow valuables out of sight.

The rear seats offer adequate room for two average size adults but it was tight for our taller friends we took to lunch this week.

Engine & Fuel Mileage Specs

The all-new 3.5-liter V6 uses an Atkinson cycle with VVT-iW (Variable Valve Timing with Intelligent Wider Intake) and D-4S direct and port fuel injection. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 18/23 city/highway and 20 combined mpg for a 4X4 with the automatic transmission.

Driving Dynamics

We drove the new TRD Off Road on an ideal trail just west of Denver near Morrison. It was a good place to test the Tacoma’s off-road capability. The road turns from pavement to dirt and then a trail appears – and that’s when our afternoon of fun started. The Bilstein shocks handled the rough road with ease as we navigated up the mountain trail. The road turns uphill and a short steep climb requires us to slip the TRD Off Road into low range. A turn of the range-select knob on the dash to 4Lo quickly puts the truck into low range and an indicator lights up for confirmation.



An overhead knob reveals the option for Multi-terrain Select and Crawl Control settings – each having five settings depending on the terrain. We chose “3” on the Crawl Control option allowing us to remove our feet from the pedals. The Toyota Tacoma crawled up the steep hill and we steered it to the top without issue.

We got to the top and did it again but going downhill this time, with the same steady and effortless results. For those looking for a true off-road pickup, the TRD Off Road is an ideal candidate to get you away from civilization. It’s made to excel on primitive trails and rugged terrain.
How does the TRD Off Road do on the highway and in the city? The ride is what you would expect from a vehicle with a serious off-road suspension. It’s a focused vehicle, so it isn’t the smoothest, most comfortable vehicle for the daily commute to town during the week or running errands on the weekend.

On the road and around town, the ride has the feel of a truck built to take on rugged terrain.

Conclusion

The 2016 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road is a purpose-built vehicle designed to take on the roughest terrain. If you are a driver who routinely needs a pickup to haul dirt bikes over a rock-strewn boulder field or tow a boat around a river bank to get to a pristine fishing hole, this is an ideal truck. As an everyday vehicle? The TRD Off Road might be a bit to rough.

http://www.automoblog.net/2016/01/26...le-cab-review/