Check out these three prototype trucks that I think are the next generation of the 2023 Toyota Tacoma pickup. At first glance, these test vehicles appear to be very large, but a closer inspection suggests that these are most likely the new Tacoma. The heavy camouflage is hiding what looks like a shorter and narrower chassis when you compare it to the new Toyota Tundra. The cab and the bed appear to be a bit smaller than the full-size Tundra.
These prototypes show an exhaust system that comes out on the driver’s side (just like the Tundra), and they have Texas manufacturer license plates (Toyota USA is headquartered in Plano, TX).
When these prototype engines started up – the exhaust was difficult to identify – but none of these prototypes seemed to be moving silently under electric power. It’s possible that the next Tacoma will use a small-displacement turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with a gas/electric hybrid version as well. It may also have a V6 engine.
The rear suspension is also hidden. It’s likely a solid rear axle with coil springs because the next Tacoma is expected to share the TNGA-F platform that also underpins the 2022 Tundra and the new 2023 Sequoia. These prototypes have rear disc brakes, so the current Tacoma’s rear drum brakes are likely to go away.
We will bring all the latest updates about the next Tacoma and all other new pickup trucks as soon as we get them.
