2017 Tacoma Welcomes All-New TRD Pro to Its Work-Hard, Play-Hard Lineup

•All-new Next-Generation TRD Pro Offers Uncompromising Off-Road Expertise

•America's Best-Selling Mid-size Pickup for 10 Years Running

•Assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas (TMMTX) in San Antonio and available in 31 models

•Revised SR5 Option Packages Available

Last year, the midsize pickup truck segment got thoroughly rocked by the introduction of the all-new Toyota Tacoma. Well, the Tacoma isn't done shaking things up, and for 2017, the venerated pickup welcomes the toughest model ever to its storied lineage, the new TRD Pro. It is, without a doubt, the ultimate expression of Tacoma off-road capability, versatility, and design.

The Tacoma certainly didn't become America's best-selling mid-size pickup for 10 years running by taking it easy. The new generation introduced last year brought a number of improvements, including the use of high-strength steel to help enhance rigidity and overall strength; a powerful and efficient 278-horsepower 3.5-liter Atkinson-cycle V6 with VVT-iW (Variable Valve Timing with Intelligent Wider Intake) and Toyota's D-4S technology; updated suspension tuning; and the model's most comfortable and functional passenger cabin ever.

In addition to welcoming the new 2017 TRD Pro, the 2017 Tacoma gets revised value-loaded optional amenity packages for SR5 models.

Brute Strength on Multiple Levels

Extensive use of high-strength steel in the frame and hot-stamped ultra-high strength steel in the body give the Tacoma a strong foundation for hard work, hard play, and durability. All Tacoma models are equipped with double wishbone coil-spring front suspension and leaf spring rear suspension with staggered outboard-mounted gas shocks. The refined setup delivers a smooth on-road ride, yet also bolsters the truck's off-road driving capability.

'Strong' is also an apt descriptor for the Tacoma's two available powertrains. Its entry-level 2.7-liter DOHC four-cylinder with VVT-i produces 159 horsepower and 180 lb.-ft. of peak torque. Those wanting extra oomph can opt for the segment-first Atkinson-cycle 3.5-liter V6 featuring the Toyota's innovative VVT-iW technology. The engine also utilizes Toyota's D-4S injection system which incorporates both direct injection and port fuel injection. Along with its 278 horsepower, the V6 makes 265 lb.-ft. of peak torque.

The engines can be teamed to a six-speed Electronically Controlled Automatic Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) or a manual transmission (six-speed for V6 applications; five-speed for four-cylinder applications). When equipped with an optional V6 Tow Package, the Tacoma can pull up to 6,800 lbs. (per the SAE J2807 tow standard).

High Style, High Function

Taking inspiration from Toyota's legendary desert race trucks, CALTY designers in Newport Beach, California and Ann Arbor, Michigan helped give the new-generation Tacoma an unmistakably athletic and stylish identity that retains everyday functionality and ruggedness. The overfenders, for example, look tough but also serve to accommodate the suspension's generous wheel travel. And the truck's high-lift image reflects its go-anywhere capability. Seven available wheel designs range in diameter from 16 to 18 inches.

Tacoma's chiseled face is anchored by a bold, hexagonal grille and a tall, muscular hood. Its slim, projection beam headlights can be outfitted with available LED daytime running lights. The tailgate adds an easy lowering feature, which allows it to slowly retract, preventing it from slamming down. An available factory-installed tri-fold hard tonneau cover secures gear when you're away.

The Tacoma's exterior color palette includes Black, Blazing Blue Pearl, Barcelona Red Metallic, Inferno, Quicksand, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Cement (TRD Pro only), Silver Sky Metallic, and Super White.

Its tough exterior is complemented by an interior that's simultaneously comfortable and functional. Soft-wrapped trim and metallic accents set the stage for a high-quality look and feel, underscored by an array of available premium features, including:

•Qi wireless charging

•Smart key with push-button start

•Leather-trimmed seats

•Power tilt/slide moonroof

•Dual-zone automatic climate control

•Enhanced touchscreen audio

•Blind-Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert

In addition to offering premium features, the Tacoma is quiet thanks to enhanced door seals, a multi-layer acoustic windshield, sound-absorbing headliner, and a floor silencer pad. Interior storage is maximized in Access Cab models with fold-up rear seats and under-seat storage. Double Cab models feature 60/40 split rear seats with adjustable headrests and under-seat storage.

31 Reasons to Love Tacoma

The 2017 Tacoma is available in 31 models based on two cab types, the extended Access Cab and four-door Double Cab, each available in 4x2 or 4x4 configurations. Access Cab models offer under-seat rear storage space, and their fold-up seat cushions maximize carrying space. Double Cab models feature 60/40 split rear seats with adjustable headrests and under-seat storage.

Tacoma is available in six model grades, each with its own purpose and unique appearance:

•Work-ready SR

•High-style, high-value SR5

•Athletic TRD Sport

•Adventurous TRD Off-Road

•Top-of-the-line Limited

•Ultimate Off-Road TRD Pro

The Access Cab models ride on a 127.4-inch wheelbase and have a 73.7-inch-long bed. The Double Cab is offered in two versions: the 127.4-inch wheelbase with a 60.5-inch bed or 140.6-inch wheelbase with the 73.7-inch bed.

Both bed styles are designed to take punishment with an inner bed made from a sheet-molded composite (SMC) deck and tough, durable walls that are 10-percent lighter than steel. The bed deck features two-tier loading and an integrated deck-rail utility system with four standard adjustable tie-down cleats.

Just about whatever you need to carry, the deck rail system can do it. It's compatible with Genuine Toyota Accessories, including a cargo divider that locks into the rails to help keep cargo from sliding around the bed, and mini tie-downs with hooks that also help to secure cargo. An available 120V/400W power point further extends the bed's utility.

Throne-like Seating

Comfort and durability come together in Tacoma's seating, which varies by model grade. All Tacoma's feature a driver's seat with adjustable lumbar support and four-way adjustable front passenger seats. The SR and SR5 grades are equipped with fabric-trimmed seats. Seating for the TRD Sport and Off-Road grades is uniquely upholstered with embossed fabric that conveys a dynamic and rugged feel. The TRD Pro comes with leather-trimmed seating plus heated front seats, and the premium Limited grade offers seats trimmed in rich leather. Seating colors include:

•SR: Fabric in Cement Gray

•SR5: Fabric in Cement Gray; Black with Caramel or Red accent stitching

•TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road: Fabric in Graphite; Black with Orange accent stitching

•Limited: Leather in Hickory

•TRD Pro: Leather in Black

The Adventure Enabler

All Tacoma 4x4 models are equipped with 4WDemand part-time 4WD with an electronically controlled transfer case and Automatic Limited Slip Differential (Auto LSD). Auto LSD is an electronic, brake actuated system that functions like a mechanical limited slip differential when activated a low speeds. Tacoma TRD Sport models are equipped with sport-tuned shocks. TRD Off-Road models include an off-road tuned suspension equipped with Bilstein® shocks.

Tacoma off-roading adventures will reach new levels of fun in the TRD Off-Road grade thanks to the addition of incredible technology. A Multi-Terrain Select system (automatic transmission only) allows the driver to choose between different types of terrain such as loose rock, or mud and sand. Each input regulates wheel spin by adjusting throttle and brake pressure to provide maximum traction on almost any terrain.

Additional off-road technology includes Locking Rear Differential, Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), clutch Start Cancel (manual transmission only), Active Traction Control, and Crawl Control. Engaging Crawl Control allows the driver to select a speed of 1-5 mph. The Crawl Control system takes over the acceleration and braking, allowing the driver to focus solely on steering.

All Tacoma models are equipped with a coil-spring double wishbone front suspension and stabilizer bar and leaf spring rear suspension with staggered outboard-mounted gas shocks. Brakes are power-assisted ventilated front disc and rear drum brakes with a tandem booster.

Optional on V6 models is the V6 Tow Package that includes a Class IV Towing Receiver Hitch, ATF Cooler (not available on manual transmission), Engine Oil Cooler, Power Steering Cooler, 130-Amp Alternator, 4- and 7-Pin Connector with Converter, and Trailer-Sway Control (TSC).

TRD Pro: The Off-Roading Master

Born from Toyota's long history of off-road racing success and knowhow, the TRD Pro vehicles are aimed squarely at the most dedicated adventure-seeking, off-road-loving, work-hard-play-hard enthusiasts. Toyota offers the TRD Pro models for Tundra and 4Runner, and now, for the second time, the next generation Tacoma.

You'd be hard pressed to mistake the 2017 Tacoma TRD Pro for something else. Its heritage-inspired 'TOYOTA' front grille with color-keyed surround, blacked out hood scoop and graphic, color-keyed power outside mirrors with turn signal indicators, color-keyed door handles, black overfenders, and color-keyed rear bumper all distinguish it as the most adventurous grade. Available TRD Pro exterior colors includes Cement, Barcelona Red Metallic, and Super White.

The TRD Pro not only looks tough, but is designed specifically to perform in the toughest of off-road environments. Based on the Tacoma TRD Off-Road 4x4 Double Cab short-bed model with either a six-speed manual transmission (with clutch start-cancel switch) or six-speed automatic, the Tacoma TRD Pro comes ready to conquer hill and trail. In addition to 4WDemand and all traction features of the TRD Off-Road grade, the Tacoma TRD Pro adds:

•16-inch TRD black alloy wheels

•Goodyear Wrangler® All-Terrain Kevlar®-reinforced tires

•TRD-tuned front springs with a 1-inch lift

•TRD-tuned rear suspension with progressive-rate off-road leaf springs

•FOX 2.5-inch Internal Bypass shocks tuned by TRD

•TRD Pro aluminum front skid plate

•Rigid Industries® LED fog lights

•Projector-beam headlights with black bezels, LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL), and auto on/off feature

•Taillights with black bezels

•TRD Pro badge on front door with diamond-pattern knurled finish

•Unique TRD Pro hood

•Black TRD Pro and 4x4 rear tailgate badging

•Standard V6 Tow Package

Inside, the Tacoma TRD Pro incorporates grade-specific pieces like black leather-trimmed heated front seats with TRD Pro logos on the headrests, TRD shift knob, and TRD Pro floor mats. It is also equipped with a 4-way adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support and a 4-way adjustable front passenger seat, leather-trimmed tilt/telescopic steering wheel with audio and Bluetooth® hands-free phone controls, Entune™ Premium Audio with Integrated Navigation and App Suite, Rear Parking assist sonar, and Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA).

Its instrument panel integrates a 4.2-inch color Multi-Information Display with an inclinometer and tilt gauge, plus displays for outside temperature, odometer, tripmeters, and average fuel economy.

Multiple Entune™ Multimedia Choices

The Tacoma SR grade comes standard with the base Entune Audio system featuring the Entune Multimedia Bundle, which includes:

•6.1-inch touch-screen display

•AM/FM CD player

•Six speakers

•Auxiliary audio jack

•USB 2.0 port with iPod® connectivity and control

•Advanced voice recognition

•Hands-free phone capability

•Phone book access and music streaming via Bluetooth® wireless technology

•Siri® Eyes Free

•Integrated backup camera display

Tacoma SR5 models get Entune Audio Plus, which adds a 6.1-inch high-resolution touch screen display, Connected Navigation Scout GPS Link App, SiriusXM All-Access Radio (includes 3-month complimentary trial) and HD Traffic and Weather (major metro areas).

Entune Premium Audio features integrated navigation, entertainment and information services. The Entune Premium Audio and Entune Premium JBL® Audio systems feature engaging mobile apps, including Destination Search, iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com, OpenTable®, Pandora®, Yelp, Facebook Places and Slacker Radio plus real-time traffic, weather, fuel prices, sports and stocks. Access to Entune services is subscription-free.

Entune Premium Audio with Integrated Navigation and App Suite is standard on all three TRD grades. This system adds the Entune Multimedia Bundle with a seven-inch high-resolution touch screen featuring split display, Entune® App Suite, HD Radio, HD predictive traffic and Doppler weather overlay, AM/FM cache radio, and Gracenotes album cover art.

At the top of the line, the Tacoma Limited comes standard with the Entune Premium JBL Audio system, which adds six JBL speakers and a subwoofer, providing excellent sound quality.

Make Tacoma Your Own

Toyota makes personalizing the 2017 Tacoma a cinch thanks to the wide variety of optional packages: Utility Package (SR only), SR Convenience Package, SR5 Appearance Package, Parking Sonar & Navigation Package and three levels of Premium & Technology Packages.

The Utility Package creates a work-truck configuration by removing the rear seats and cupholders for added utility space, and adds black door handles, black mirror caps, black rear bumper, and a fixed rear window. The SR Convenience Package adds cruise control and remote keyless entry, while the SR5 Appearance Package includes 16-inch silver alloy wheels and color-keyed overfenders.

The Premium & Technology Packages bundle comfort and technology features including dual zone climate control, heated front seats, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, auto-headlamps, power tilt/slide moonroof, Entune Premium JBL Audio, and more. Toyota dealers offer a wide array of accessories, including TRD performance components, that expand Tacoma's utility, comfort, and driving fun.

Safety Standout

The Tacoma's Star Safety System™ includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), and Smart Stop brake override technology (SST). Every Tacoma has driver and front passenger Advanced Airbag System, driver and front passenger knee airbags, and front and rear Roll-sensing Side Curtain Airbags.

Standard active headrests for the front seats move up and forward almost instantly in the event of certain severe rear-end collisions to help reduce the distance between the occupant's head and the headrest. Additional standard safety features include a Tire Pressure Monitor System (with individual tire location alert on most grades).

A North American Story

The Toyota engineering team at Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Mich. takes great pride in its role helping to develop the latest generation Tacoma pickup. The Tacoma is assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas (TMMTX) in San Antonio and Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Baja California (TMMBC) in Baja California, Mexico. The Tacoma has maintained the highest resale value in its class for the past 10 years, according to Kelley Blue Book.

Limited Warranty and Toyota Care

Toyota's 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation. The Tacoma also comes standard with Toyota Care, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.

by Toyota

Since 1995, the Toyota Tacoma is a compact pickup truck both manufactured and produced by the Toyota Motor Corporation. For 2005 the second generation Tacoma was named Motor Trend Magazine's Truck of the Year. The Tacoma received its name after the City of Tacoma, Washington, USA. The Tacoma name originated from the worldwide Hilux, and prior to this the Hilux was marketed in the US, under the name Toyota Pickup. Three engines were available for the Toyota Tacoma; the 2.4 L four cylinder which was rated at 142 hp and 160 lb/ft of torque, the 2.7 L four cylinder which was rated at 150 hp and 177lb/ft of torque and finally the 3.4 L V6 rated at 190 hp and 22 lb/ft of torque. The 2.4L offered the highest MPG at 29, the 2.7L gave 26 miles per US gallon, and the 3.4L gave only 22 miles per US gallon.

5-stud wheel lug patterns were found on Two-wheel drive Tacoma's, while the 2.4 L and 3.4 L engines were available depending on options. Both automatic and manual transmissions were available. Four-wheel drive Tacoma's came with six-stud wheel lug patterns, which had been used early on pre-Tacoma trucks. The frame of the Tacoma is fully boxed until promptly transitioning into a c-frame section after the front leaf spring mount bracket. The automatic transmission was an A340F while the 3.4 V's manual transmission was an R150F. Single cab Tacoma's came with the option of a manual transmission with the 3.4 V6 engine from 1995 until 1997. Following 1998 the single cabs only received a 2.7 or a 2.4 4-cyl from factory. Also in this year TRD packages began.

Pre-runner models also began in this year and they shared the same front and rear suspensions parts and geometry, styling, frame and engine options as 4X4 Tacoma's of this year range. These models also had the options of the TRD Off-Road package which received a rear differential locker if it was a V6 model. The main downside was there wasn't an option of a 5-speed transmission.

The Toyota Tacoma sold quite well in the first few years of production, appealing to many young buyers. During the first generation the Tacoma underwent two cosmetic facelifts, the first in 1998 and the second in 2001. The revisions involved new headlights and new grilles. Mechanically the changes included a switch to distributor-less ignitions in 1997 and in 1998 longer rear leaf springs. Also in 1998 a passenger-side airbag was added to the Tacoma, while the driver's side air bag was 'depowered'. Following the 2000 model year all 4X4 models came with Toyota's Automatic Differential Disconnect system.

In 2001 the main revision for the Tacoma was a new crew cab (four door) model being added to the lineup. The crew cab came with four doors, while the Tacoma extended cab continued to open with two doors. A 6 foot bed came with the extended cab while the crew cab came with a 5 foot 5-inch bed. Unfortunately many customers were not happy with small crew cab beds, but there wasn't much of a market for larger truck beds with competitors. Toyota rolled out their new S-Runner trim package in 2001 which came with a 3.4 liter V6 engine, 16-inch alloy wheels and a 5 speed manual transmission with Tokico gas shocks. Only 200 units were produced from 2001 until 2004. The Toyota Tacoma went up 16.5 percent in sales from its earlier years and it continued to only rise in popularity. The Tacoma was ahead of the Nissan Frontier and the Dodge Dakota in 2004, only 2.2 percent behind in sales to the Ford Ranger.

The second generation of the Tacoma was unveiled at the 2004 Chicago Auto show. This generation was assembled in Tijuana, Mexico and Fremont, California, while the plastic/composite beds were all constructed in Mexico. This continued until August of 2009 when Toyota announced that it would relocate Tacoma production from Fremont to San Antonio, Texas, therefore consolidating with it's Toyota Tundra production line and having all American made Toyota pickups manufactured at one facility.

This new Tacoma was a bigger, meatier, more powerful Tacoma for 2005 available in eighteen various configurations that included three cab configurations, four transmissions, two engines, and two different bed lengths. The 4.0-liter 1GR-FE V6 replaced the original 3.4-liter V. The new Tacoma V6 had many enhancements that included a new 6500 pound tow rating and a payload capacity of 1650 pounds. It produced 236 horsepower and 266 foot-pounds of torque. The brand new smaller 2.7-liter 2TR-FE 4-cylinder alternative in cheaper models was rated at 159 hp and 180 lb/ft of torque.

An X-Runner trim was also introduced this year which replaced the slow selling S-Runner trim from the earlier generation. This model features the 1GR-FE was mated to a six speed manual transmission, 18 in alloy wheels which were lowered two inches from the factory and included an X-Brace suspension package. Also included on the X-Runner trim was a Down-Hill Assist Control (DAC) and Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC) on models that were outfitted with the optional Toyota Racing Development (TRD) Off-Road package. HAC prevents the car from rolling backwards on hills while DAC automatically applies braking during downhill descents. Optional features included limited-slip differential or a rear locking differential. All Tacoma's were manufactured with a composite inner bed that included a deck rail system with four tie-down cleats, storage boxes, hook-pins, and a power outlet. The tie-down cleats were rated to hold up to 220lbs.

The 2006 Tacoma rolled out with a bit more flair than the previous year. This year featured some options standard. For 2007 the Tacoma added 2 all-new interior colors. Not much changed aesthetically for the 2008 model year. For 2008 Toyota announced a 15 year, unlimited mileage corrosion warrant for 1995-2000 models because of insufficient rust-proofing and frame corrosion issues that affected a small amount of Tacoma's. Toyota offered to either repair the frame or buy back the truck for 1.5 times its KBB retail value.

Safety features were implemented for 2009 and the Tacoma no longer offered a mechanical limited slip different instead of an open differential which uses individual wheel braking to simulate a mechanical LSD or 'Auto-LSD'. Off-road TRD models continue to arrive equipped with a locking rear differential. For this year a slightly improved grill was added on some models, along with LED taillamps. The X-Runner, TRD Sport and TRD Offroad models included smoked headlamp trim. Now standard were auxiliary audio input. Four new exterior colors were added to the Tacoma and the Access/Double Cab trucks received two new ceiling mounted speakers and available backup monitor.

Following GM's bankruptcy, GM abandoned the NUMMI venture. Toyota killed all Corolla and Tacoma production. For 2010 all Tacoma production was relocated to Toyota's Texas plant in San Antonio. The Tacoma was build alongside the Tundra, and by doing this, Toyota now has all of its NA truck production in one plant. In 2012 the Tacoma is expected to be redesigned and re-engineered, two years following the release of the new 4Runner.

The Tacoma arrived standard with brake assist, anti-lock brakes, and electronic brakeforce distribution. A rollover sensor was added in 2008 which deployed the side curtain airbags in the event of a rollover in Tacoma's equipped with the optional side airbags. Starting in 2009, all Tacoma's featured Toyota's Star Safety System which added traction control and Vehicle Stability Control. Also standard were front row side torso airbags and side curtain airbags for both rows, along with active head restraints. With active head restraints, in 2009 the Tacoma was given the IIHS's Top Safety Pick award. The Tacoma Access Cab received standard power windows and door locks along with redesigned rear seats for passenger comfort and convenience. Higher trim levels offered optional Bluetooth enabled Premium JBL 6-CD audio systems with integrated XL satellite radio.

A limited production trim, the Toyota X-Runner was only available in three colors each year and only four colors today. The X-Runner was available in Speedway Blue, Black San Pearl and Radiant Red from 2005 until 2008.The Radiant Red was discontinued in 2009 and replaced with Barcelona Red Metallic. The main difference between the X-Runner and other packages were the updates to the suspension, a 3.15 Final Drive ratio and ground effects. To stiffen up the back end, the Toyota added a rear mounted X-Brace. The chassis was also stiffened more by adding two additional support braces to the frame. One could purchase an optional big brake kit by TRD available on the X-Runner which consisted of a 332 mm slotted rotor and 4 piston caliper. This big brake kit was designed by StopTech.

The 2010 Tacoma appealed to drivers who needed a mid-size car or compact pickup loaded with latest media amenities and top of the line safety features in addition to fuel efficiency and hauling capabilities. The outside remained basically unchanged from the previous year. The '10 trucks came in three cab styles; the Tacoma Regular Cab, Double Cab with four side doors and extended Access Cab with hinged rear doors. The 2010 Tacoma was equipped with the most advanced DynamicControl technology and Electronic Throttle Control System with intelligence. The Tacoma is a popular seller in the mid-size pickup truck category.

by Jessican Donaldson