Next gen Tacoma (probably)

Saw this photo posted on Tacoma world and a few other sites. The photo was from someone who was trying URLs on Toyota's website until one worked. This seems consistent with what has been teased by Toyota so far.

We can assume from the Toyota logo and the general style this is likely a TRD pro model. It could be the Trail Hunter but teaser images show red tow hooks on the rear of that vehicle, and this one doesn't appear to have any.

This has Toyota's fingerprints all over it, the styling seems correct, everything matches what's been released by them so far. I'm 90% confident it's the 4th gen Taco.

I'm relieved they didn't do the 1 big grill design that's polarizing on the new Tundra. The little bit of separation from the bottom grill saves it.

I wish it didn't have quite so many creases, I want a return to basics like the original Tacoma. It's also too big for my liking. And that black plastic under the headlights, Toyota stop doing that please! Less is more. Keep in mind this being a TRD will look different from normal versions. There are a few positives, like the retaining of a manual transmission.

The more interesting question is what does this mean for the 4runner? I say not too much, while it isn't hard to pair each era of 4runner with the Tacoma made at the same time, they are normally different. The exact mechanicals aren't revealed by this either. But it's exciting none the less.

The engine options are predicted to be a 2.4 turbo and a detuned 3.5 i-force V6. Both will be an upgrade to the 2.7 and 2GR-FKS respectively. Though I do shed a tear for the loss of the old 2.7, that engine is the long lived direct descendent of the 3rz found in my 4runner, and it's block was designed in the early 90s.

 

I like it!

 

Saw this on the 6th gen speculation thread.

Agreed about breaking up the grille. It definitely looks better than one giant grille.

I think it looks pretty good. Even the black fender flares look nice.