The 2016 Toyota Tacoma has made its debut this morning at the 2015 Detroit Auto Show (NAIAS 2015).
Watch the LIVE UNVEILING below of the 2016 Toyota Tacoma and 2016 Toyota Tacoma TRD-PRO at the Detroit International Auto Show (NAIAS 2015) courtesy of the TFLnow live-stream channel.
The 2016 Toyota Tacoma features the use of high-strength steel for the frame and ultra-high strength steel for the body shell with a new hot stamping process to reduce weight.
Under the hood is a choice of a 2.7-L four-cylinder new 3.5-L V6 with Atkinson cycle and Toyota’s D-4S fuel injection technology. Both engines will be paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. However, the V6 will also be available with a six-speed manual, an unexpected and welcome move. The previous 4.0-L V6 is gone, as Toyota says that the new 3.5-L engine will be more powerful and more efficient, although no output or economy specifications have yet been provided.
The 2016 Toyota Tacoma was designed and engineered by the CALTY team in Newport Beach, California, alongside Toyota’s engineering division in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The new look of the truck has a family connection to the Toyota Tundra, especially if you look at the grille.
However, the overall look is more evolutionary and some design cues from the 4Runner are still apparent. The new wheel flares are designed for greater wheel travel, and will house four new rim choices ranging from 16 to 18 inches in diameter.
The 2016 Toyota Tacoma features a new lockable tailgate with integrated spoiler, and the truck will be available with a tri-folding tonneau cover for cargo security. The tailgate is now dampened for further refinement and control.
Designers were going for an athletic and off-road-minded feel for the interior. There is available keyless entry and push-button start. Other amenities include an automatic dual-zone climate control system, updated touch-screen infotainment system, blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, Qi wireless charging, and more.
Another interesting touch is that every 2016 Toyota Tacoma will come with a GoPro camera mount near the center of the rear-view mirror.
Toyota also worked hard to make the new Tacoma’s interior quieter than ever. They reworked the seals, and added acoustic insulation to the windshield, headliner, and floor padding materials.
The 2016 Toyota Tacoma will come in five grade levels: Base SR, familiar SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and the new Limited.
Off-road enthusiasts will appreciate features such as an automatic limited-slip locking rear differential, hill start assist, active traction control, and crawl control. The crawl control system will allow the driver to set a speed between 1-5 MPH and will take over accelerator and braking function. All the driver has to do is steer.