Ok, for those enthusiasts that are still reading….
Toyota invited a few of your favorite media outlets to put on about 80 miles on and 20-30 miles off-road in one day. We were paired up in teams of two, my ride partner and I took off down the highway en-route to the off-road venue where we were able to experience both freeway and twisty backroads. For what it’s worth, I do not drive automatics very often and Toyota only brought automatics to test drive (something about fairness, not really sure). So, how did it stand up to the hype?
After experiencing the 2016 Tacoma on and off-road for the day, it seemed to be very comfortable, easy to operate, and a blast to drive. The handling is much improved with the body roll and understeer under control. The ponies under the hood were a lot of fun when exiting curves and on the on-ramps. The seats were quite comfortable and the controls were straight forward and easy to acclimate to. This was my first time experiencing Crawl Control and I have to say that there are things I liked about it and some that I did not like. It is very easy to use, but there is something wrong with being able to turn a knob to let the truck do it for you. In the sand, buried to the frame, however, Crawl Control was a thing to behold. This system moves the power around to all four of the tires and walked it right out a predicament that we all bring other equipment to help get us out of. Driving with the new Atkinson engine, Toyota’s Marketing Staff challenged us to even be able to tell when it switched cycles and yes you can tell if you know what you are trying to feel for. It was only slightly noticeable at best and the thinking behind this engine may just be a game changer for Toyota. The suspension on this Tacoma may be interchangeable with the previous generation, but it is much improved for the everyday driving and I for one cannot wait to get one to drive here in Colorado.
Exterior Stylings:
Toyota is trying to brand and model their entire arsenal of Off-road Capable vehicles and tie them back to each other. Growing in popularity, the 4Runner and the Tundra both have their own hard-bodied stylings with fabulous on and off-road capabilities. With that said the Tacoma is that piece that ties them all together. The 3rd Gen Tacoma takes front end style notes from the 4Runner and bed styling from the Tundra. Another styling note that caught my eye, air fins placed throughout the exterior of the truck. Turns out that this is to help with MPG’s and reduce air noise. A couple of new features in the tailgate are (finally) a locking tailgate (key use only), a built in strut for lowering the tailgate, and a backup camera. I think one of the coolest optional features is a Power Tilt/Slide Moonroof! Yes, I will have gear stored up there but the ventilation will be nice and so will the view when not full of gear.
Interior Stylings:
I have to admit, at first I was a little underwhelmed with the redesigned interior. That is until I started to take a closer look and asked a few questions. Yes, the dash is cleaned up a bit, the seats look nice, the instrument cluster is definitely updated, and the GoPro Mount on the windshield is a cool add-on. The seats have been designed to be more comfortable, durable, and give more leg room for passengers. The dash controls were cleaned up nicely and updated with an easy to use touch screen control center. The instrument cluster was finally modernized and includes (on MOST packages) a Multi-information-Display that includes outside temp, odometer, trip meter, and average fuel economy. On the TRD and Limited packages there are a few refinements that need to be noted; Qi-compatible wireless smart device charging, Front Dual Zone Climate Control, and Smart Key System for the drivers door with push button start (Automatic Only). The GoPro mount, though in might be a little brand specific, is an interesting idea.
Powered Up:
The 2016 Tacoma will feature two new engine choices:
A 2.7-liter DOHC four-cylinder with VVT-i that will produce 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. EPA estimated fuel economy for the 4x2 with the automatic transmission is 19/23/21, the 4x4 manual is 19/21/20, and the 4x4 automatic is 19/22/20.
For greater performance, Toyota offers a new V6 with a segment-first 3.5-liter Atkinson cycle with VVT-iW (Variable Valve Timing with Intelligent Wider Intake) equipped with Toyota’s D-4S technology that features both direct and port fuel injection. With this new V6 the horsepower output is up to 278 (an increase of 42 hp over their 2015 4.0-liter) and 265 lb-ft of torque at 4600 RPM. The EPA estimated fuel economy for the 4x2 automatic is 19/24/21, 4x4 manual is 17/21/19, and 4x4 automatic is 18/23/20.
Both engines will be matched up with a new six-speed automatic transmission with electronic shift. The V6 will have a six-speed manual option, while the four-cylinder will have a five-speed manual option.
Both of these options will make the new Tacoma more powerful that previous models. When you add the V6 Tow Package, you can tow up to 6,800 lb. and 6,900 for the access cab (300 lb. more than the previous V6 model).
Tougher, more powerful, but lighter?:
When designing the frame, the engineering team at the Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan had their job cut out for them. By using a high-strength steel, the team set out to lighten up the weight while strengthening key points and making it more rigid throughout the frame.
The team utilized Ultra-high strength steel and a new technology called hot stamping that when integrated into the body shell reduced even more weight while making the shell more durable.
With the development of the Atkinson Cycle Engine, Toyota has one-upped the competition and itself. Never before have we seen the likes of an engine that runs on both direct and port injection systems. The Atkinson Cycle Engine has been developed to run more efficient on the highway and still be able to give that kick in the shorts when more power is needed.
Lighter? Not really, the Tacoma line up is just a touch heavier (roughly 300 lbs) than the 2nd Gen except for the base SR line, it’s lighter by about 300 lbs.
Models & Pricing: Starting At
SR $23,300
SR5 $25,385
TRD SPORT $29,665
TRD OFF-ROAD $30,765
LIMITED $34,745
Keep in mind that you still have options, these are all priced at 4x2 pricing, and the extras will add up quickly!
My first choice would be a TRD Off-Road, m/t, sun roof, and that would add up to over $34,000. Still not a bad price tag for what you are getting.
Final Thoughts
All things taken into consideration, the Colorado and the Canyon really have nothing to worry about. They just won’t compete. In my humble opinion the 2016 Tacoma is smartly redesigned, adequately powered up, and ready to be unleashed on the competition! And YES, this truck, Test-Drive Event, and the people involved, all put a smile on my face that was very difficult to remove! FYI, I loved it so much, mine will be here very soon. It’s is a Super White, TRD Off-Road, M/T, with a sunroof, and Double Cab. The built product will be unveiled at SEMA this year, so watch for it here & in all of our social networks!
