The expansion of the mid-size pickup truck class in the US continues with the return of the Ford Ranger and the off-road Raptor version will also hit the market. Nissan should also redesign the Frontier soon while GM’s twins should also receive some upgrades to stay relevant. Toyota won’t also leave the Tacoma untouched. A long-running, highly dependable and capable Tacoma will get upgraded TRD Pro version for the 2019 Toyota Tacoma.
The off-road model gets unique exterior and interior treatment combined with more desirable features available as standard. The hard-core, off-road rig is also the part of the deal while the engine is familiar. On the other hand, Toyota hasn’t revealed its plans regarding the rest of the lineup. Toyota updated this well-selling truck for the 2016 version with the new engine, stiffer structure, more tech and luxury features while all Tacomas come with the suite active safety systems by default since the 2018 model year. So, all chances are that other versions won’t receive substantial upgrades.
2019 Toyota Tacoma: Design
The Tacoma isn’t the truck pretending to be the best-looking model in the class but it is definitely the macho truck despite its appearance has a lot in common with the design before the end of the millennium. The model has strong attitude defined by the bold grille design, tall and sculpted hood and beltline plus oversized fenders.
For the 2019 Toyota Tacoma, the brand upgraded the capability and appeal of the TRD Pro version. The model comes with the black-finished TRD grille with TOYOTA stamping. The model is also fitted with the new skid plate and receives the snorkel intake. This version also emphasis its off-road character with higher ground clearance, black lower cladding, black TRD wheels and special badging.
The rest of the lineup will also get special treatment for the grille and other areas depending on the trim but don’t expect unknown details.
Cabin, Equipment:
Inside the cabin, the Tacoma will look attractive and will deliver solid materials and construction. No big changes are expected.
The model has simple dash design and easy to use controls. The Entune infotainment system is also well responsive and easy to manage and supports modern interface demands. All Tacomas also come with the standard Toyota Safety Package. The package includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.
Upper grades will add more comfort and tech features including leather upholstery, power and heated features, upgraded tech while off-road specialized versions will gain upgraded running gear.
2019 Toyota Tacoma: Powertrains
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma will likely return with two engine options and two transmissions. Off-road versions will get impressive hardware. The TRD Pro trim boasts upgraded suspension system which comes with 1-inch lifted ride height, larger anti-roll bar, Fox racing internal-bypass dampers at all corners, progressive rate rear leaf springs, etc. The dampers have 2.5 inches in diameter and rear include external oil reservoirs.
The new TRD Pro version will use Tacoma’s familiar 3.5-liter V-6 engine. This engine will produce 275 hp and torque 265 lb-ft. Standard on this version will also be a six-speed automatic gearbox, four-wheel drive with electronic terrain management system, and rear locking differential.
Another option on Tacomas will be a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine makes 159 hp and 180 pound-feet of torque. A rear-wheel drive will also be available as well as the six-speed automatic transmission.
2019 Toyota Tacoma: Arrival, Price
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma will again start at around $25, 000. The TRD Pro will come in limited number and with the sticker in mid-40k range. The new version will become available this fall.
