The 2020 Toyota Tacoma Has New Tech and Mild Styling Tweaks
The already extremely popular Toyota Tacoma just got even better for 2020. The legendary mid-size pickup truck receives a plethora of new features and minor exterior updates and is making its debut at the Chicago auto show. While the litany of changes do not affect its powertrain choices or configuration options, as we speculated after a teaser image was released last week, many of them help better align the Tacoma with contemporary rivals in this highly competitive segment.
New Tech, Who Dis?
Perhaps the biggest news to those familiar with the current-generation Tacoma, which was all new for 2016, is the addition of a power-adjustable driver's seat and power lumbar support. This is standard on all versions starting with the second-level SR5. Previously, drivers would have to manually adjust their chair-a real bummer by today's standards. Every model also receives an all-new touchscreen infotainment system that finally (!) supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For bonus points, standard Amazon Alexa compatibility joins them, too. While the base model's old 6.1-inch touchscreen is now replaced with a 7.0-inch unit, the rest of the range nabs an 8.0-inch touchscreen.
The technology train doesn't end there; Toyota has introduced two newly available camera systems that help Tacoma drivers monitor what's happening around and even underneath their trucks. The new Panoramic View Monitor is supplementary to the standard backup camera and includes front, side, and rear angles. Likewise, the new Multi Terrain Monitor adds another element to that camera system with a view under the truck so the driver can become aware of otherwise unseen obstacles. Unfortunately, these driver assists are not offered on the SR or SR5 models. However, every version still has a host of standard driver-assistance features that include adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beam headlights, lane-departure warning, and forward-collision warning.
I Spy New Styling
Every one of the six distinct models, including the TRD Sport and the TRD Off-Road, have fresh faces that include either updated grille designs, new LED headlights with dazzling daytime running lights, or a combination of both. Likewise, most models have new wheel designs. Still, these revisions may be difficult to spot unless you belong to the local Tacoma fan club. Among the other subtle exterior alterations are a newly available LED cargo-bed lamp that Toyota says is brighter and more electrically efficient than the one it replaces. The SR and SR5 models have revised taillights with darkened housings, but only the SR5 and up are also available with the snazzy LED headlights. The base model does add intermittent windshield wipers as a consolation prize. Although passive entry-Toyota calls it Smart Key-was available before, it only worked on the driver's door. Now, the optional system extends to the passenger side, too, so you can unlock the front doors by touch.
TRD Pro Is Still the Top
After returning from the dead for 2019, the TRD Pro model continues to rule the roost. It also receives all of the aforementioned infotainment upgrades and exterior revisions found on lesser Tacos. That means the new LED highlights with their slick-looking U-shaped daytime running lights and the updated black-insert taillights. More important, its exclusive front and rear Fox 2.5-inch internal bypass shocks have been revised, and its 16-inch wheels are now nearly 4.2 pounds lighter. The lifted Tacoma can also be painted in a unique Army Green color.
The entire 2020 Tacoma lineup still includes a standard 159-hp 2.7-liter inline-four engine or a 278-hp 3.5-liter V-6. Both pair with a six-speed automatic transmission and rear- or four-wheel drive; the V-6 can also be paired with a six-speed manual gearbox. Likewise, the regular Access Cab models mate to a 6.1-foot cargo bed, and the Double Cabs have either a 5.0-foot or 6.1-foot box. Neither the on-sale date or pricing details have been released, but we will bring that information to you as soon as it's available.
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