We Need This 1 Toyota Engine in the Redesigned Tacoma
Believe it or not, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma uses an engine that dates back to 2004. That doesn’t mean its V6 engine hasn’t been changed over the nearly 20 years it’s been around, but it is fairly similar. And it really seems like it’s time for Toyota’s midsize truck to get a newer V6 powertrain. Hopefully, we see a new V6 offered to the redesigned Toyota Tacoma.
Does the Toyota Tacoma have a V6?
In 2023, the Toyota Tacoma truck offers a 3.5-liter V6. This engine makes 278 horsepower and 265 pound-foot of torque. In comparison, the 3.8-liter V6 found in the new Nissan Frontier makes 310 hp. And it’s also a newer powerplant.
I understand Toyota’s preference for using tried and tested powertrains. But as other manufacturers update the midsize trucks that they offer, it seems like the Tacoma deserves a V6 that has more power and is more efficient.
A redesigned Toyota Tacoma is expected to be announced on April 4th. And I think it would be great to see the 3.4-liter twin-turbo i-Force V6 engine in this midsize truck. I have now tested this product in three different Toyota vehicles, including the 2023 Tundra, and it feels great.
What engines will the 2024 Tacoma have?
Toyota has not confirmed exactly which engines we will see in the redesigned Tacoma. But, I think the i-Force V6 could make sense. This engine makes 389 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque in its standard form. Meaning it’s more powerful than the V8 engine previously found in models like the Tundra.
While I don’t think Toyota would offer this engine in all its power in the Tacoma, it could potentially detune it. And that would help this pickup be more efficient and more powerful.
According to MotorTrend, the engine utilizes an all-aluminum block, has 3,445cc of displacement, and dual VVTi (variable valve timing-intelligence) systems. Overall, Toyota has put great effort into cooling and reliability. And having a reliable engine is something that truck owners value.
A redesigned Toyota truck is coming
While we don’t have a lot of set details yet, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma will likely be all-new. It’s been a minute since this midsize truck got a full update. And it’s starting to feel pretty old when compared to its rivals. Although, that has not seemed to have an impact on its sales.
Major changes to the new Tacoma will be a new platform, new powertrains, and probably a more aggressive design. Personally, I am curious if the Tacoma will retain its manual transmission. Next to the Jeep Gladiator, Toyota’s midsize truck is the only one that will let you row your own gears.
Rumors point to the reveal date for the redesigned Toyota Tacoma being April 4th of this year. This redesigned Tacoma will come after Toyota has updated the Tundra and some of its other body-on-frame vehicles.
