2026 Toyota Tacoma TRD

Performance

The core engine is a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline i-Force four-cylinder, rated at 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, backed by an eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine is also available with a six-speed manual transmission, producing 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. These are stout figures for a midsize truck, but the Tacoma doesn’t stop there.   

The i-Force Max hybrid drivetrain is designed primarily to deliver more power. It combines the turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four with a 48-horsepower electric motor (sandwiched between the engine and eight-speed transmission) that draws power from a 1.87-kWh battery pack. The total system output amounts to 326 horsepower and an impressive 465 pound-feet of torque. When equipped with the i-Force Max, this midsize truck can effortlessly ascend a 6% interstate grade without the need to downshift, enhancing the comfort of long road trips in a Tacoma. 

An eight-speed automatic transmission sends power to all four wheels. The four-wheel-drive system is standard on the TRD Off-Road and above, in addition to an adaptive variable suspension for a smoother ride. 

All TRD models are equipped with an independent double-wishbone front suspension. The rear is a solid axle suspended by coil springs. The very off-road-focused TRD Pro, which specializes in fast running over unpaved terrain, and the Trailhunter, which is set up for overlanding and thus slow crawling over extremely rough terrain, feature unique shocks and other modifications specific to their designated missions.

Brakes feature discs all around, with 13.4-inch rotors up front and 13.4-inch rear rotors on i-Force Max models.

Exterior

The 2026 Tacoma is built on the same TNGA-F platform as the Tundra, Sequoia, and Land Cruiser. Its exterior is a robust blend of traditional Tacoma styling cues with the rugged surfacing of the larger Tundra. Details vary by grade, but common features include a thickly bordered hexagonal grille, high-mount headlights, integrated roof and tailgate spoilers, and a small kick-up on the lower corner of the rear windows.

Among most of the competitive set, you will see a single available body configuration, typically a four-door cab with a small bed. The 2026 Tacoma offers an XtraCab and four-door Double Cab, as well as a choice of both five-foot and six-foot beds.

Interior

The interior boasts upgraded materials and design. The driver’s seat is raised from the previous model for a better seating position. An integrated shelf in front of the passenger provides a convenient place for a phone or other small items. MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) panels on the center console and door panels enable even more versatile storage.

With 33.7 inches of rear legroom and 57.8 inches of rear shoulder room, the Tacoma Double Cab was designed to carry a second row of three adults.   

TRD Pro models are equipped with a pair of Iso-Dynamic Performance Front Seats, which are designed to help keep you stable over tougher terrain. You can adjust the pressure on your body through a pair of air-filled struts behind each seat.   

Technology

The driver has a 12.3-inch digital display and a 14.0-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system. On Trailhunter and TRD Pro models, there is a Qi-compatible wireless charger and the 10-speaker JBL audio system. Part of the speaker system is a JBL FLEX Portable Bluetooth Speaker that can run up to six hours on its own. Standard on every Tacoma is wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Available on all models and standard on Trailhunter and TRD Pro models, Digital Key enables you to use your compatible smartphone as a vehicle key, and you can also extend this capability to family and friends.

Safety and Driver Assist

The 2026 Tacoma comes with the latest Toyota Safety Sense suite of safety and driver-assist technologies. TSS 3.0 includes:   

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection   
• Dynamic Radar Cruise Control   
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist   
• Lane Tracing Assist   
• Road Sign Assist   
• Automatic High Beams   
• Proactive Driving Assist 

The Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) is available on the SR and is standard on all other models. RCTA informs you of vehicles approaching from either side when you are backing out of a parking space or driveway.

You will also be entitled to a 10-year free trial subscription to Safety Connect, which includes:   

• Emergency Assistance Button (SOS)   
• 24/7 Enhanced Roadside Assistance   
• Automatic Collision Notification   
• Stolen Vehicle Locator