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The pressure is on for new truck releases these days. Some will say that Toyota messed up with the new Tundra and Tacoma, but at least they have reliable reputations to fall back on. However, the Toyota Stout is basically starting from scratch. 

The Toyota Stout can’t launch with problems

Do you remember the old Toyota Stout? It was a compact truck that was discontinued back in 1989. However, it might return to the grave in 2025 as a mini truck to fight the Hyundai Santa Cruz and the even more popular Ford Maverick. 

However, Toyota can’t afford any mistakes with its new tiny but mighty truck. For example, the Toyota Tundra was redesigned in 2022, launching a new generation. 

But it arrived with quality and mechanical issues that disappointed an entire fanbase. Engine problems include a potential loss of power and unexpected vehicle movement. 

It had electrical system problems to correct, a fuel leak that increased the fire risk, failing electronics, trim pieces that fell off, and axle shaft separation. 

The 2021 Tundra had a reliability rating of 86 out of 100 from J.D.Power but the 2022 model earned a 70. That’s a 16-point drop. Scores between 70 and 80 are average while scores between 81 and 90 are above average. 

The 2023 Ford Maverick earned an 85 and the 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz got an 84. So, when the Stout finally arrives, it will be pretty late. Both of these trucks have already had time to establish themselves as reliable options. 

Toyota Motor North America Executive, Jack Hollis, noted that a new compact truck could arrive soon. It might be a PHEV or EV model, but I still have hope for a traditional gas-powered engine. 

It could be similar to the EPU compact truck concept from 2022. However, it would adopt a distinct American style for the Stout name. 

Other rumors suggest that it will be based on the Toyota RAV4. It could get the RAV4’s 2.5-liter inline-four engine with 203 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque or the Highlander’s turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 265 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. 

Going this route could lower the risk of the Stout arriving with detrimental issues. Stay tuned for updates.

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Staff Writer

Allison Barfield

Allison Barfield joined MotorBiscuit in 2020 and covers all things trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. Having grown up on a farm in Rock Hill, South Carolina, she’s no stranger to the “Best in Class” truck and SUV debates; people in her hometown were always gathering to help work on vehicles together, and deliberation would naturally arise.

Allison graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Media Arts. She has helped bring awareness to issues Women In Trucking face and has promoted Truckers Against Trafficking, an anti-trafficking NGO.

A fan of creatively dark literature, Allison appreciates the works of Shirley Jackson and Emily Dickenson. She lives in a mountainous area of the country and enjoys off-roading and camping. Her dog, Bruce, often joins her in testing trucks and SUVs for our site.