Overview
Inspired by the totally redesigned Toyota Tundra, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma should have similar styling cues and equally modern mechanical components. Unlike the full-size Tundra, the mid-size Tacoma outsells its domestic alternatives, which include the Chevy Colorado and Ford Ranger. However, Toyota’s most popular truck will require significant improvements to remain dominant, and the next generation aims to accomplish that. The new Tacoma will feature a new body-on-frame platform that’ll likely include a more sophisticated coil-spring rear suspension. Likewise, we expect it to get a powertrain upgrade, which could mean a turbocharged four-cylinder with an available hybrid version like the Tundra. The 2023 Tacoma also should benefit from a snazzier interior and a more contemporary infotainment system, but official details remain to be seen.
What’s New for 2023?
We think the Tacoma will enter a new generation for the 2023 model year. We currently only know a few things for sure, such as the fact it’ll ride on Toyota’s new TNGA-F architecture, which is a body-on-frame platform that also underpins the new Tundra and forthcoming Sequoia and 4Runner. We also have an artist’s illustration that suggests what a new Tacoma TRD Pro could look like. If the Tundra’s new design is any indication, its little brother will have a similarly familiar grille, lighting elements, and distinctive fender bulges. We expect to learn more about the new Taco next year and believe it might debut as a 2023 model.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Toyota hasn’t said how much the ’23 Tacoma will cost or what trim levels will be offered. We expect a slight price bump over the current version, which starts at $28,000. The lineup should also reflect the outgoing generation, spanning from the entry-level SR trim to the popular TRD Sport and Off-Road models to the top-tier, off-road-ready TRD Pro.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Tacoma deserves a new powertrain. While it’s currently the only mid-size truck that’s available with a manual transmission—we’d like it to stay that way—its six-speed automatic transmission is clumsy and obsolete compared with those in competitors such as the GMC Canyon and Nissan Frontier. The outgoing Tacoma offers an anemic four-cylinder base engine and an optional V-6 that’s less powerful than every other V-6-powered rival, including the often-derided Honda Ridgeline. We expect Toyota to package the new Tacoma with a turbocharged four-cylinder–potentially the 2.4-liter from the Lexus NX350 that makes 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. That engine pairs with an eight-speed automatic. As with the new Tundra, the Tacoma might be offered with a hybrid version of its V-6 powertrain. The mid-size truck will still utilize a body-on-frame construction, but we expect it to lose its rear leaf-spring suspension for a more modern coil-spring setup that should improve both its ride and handling.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
We have no idea what the inside of the new Tacoma will look like. However, much like its exterior is expected to draw inspiration from the larger Tundra, so should its interior. That suggests chunky (read: tough) styling elements, nicer materials throughout, and modern features. We expect the truck to continue to be offered with an extended cab and a crew cab as well as a short- and long-bed option. We only hope the back seat in the new truck is roomier than the current crew cab’s cramped accommodations.
Infotainment and Connectivity
On the infotainment front, we expect the 2023 Tacoma to switch to a larger and more contemporary setup. That likely means the current 8.0-inch touchscreen will be replaced by something bigger, possibly even the 14.0-inch touchscreen inside the new Tundra. Along with some new features, we expect the new Tacoma’s infotainment center to continue to include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
As more information becomes available, we’ll update this story with more details about:
- Towing and Payload Capacity
- Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
- Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
- Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
