The Toyota Tacoma has earned a place in the spotlight among compact trucks by meeting the needs and expectations of its owners. To keep up with compact truck owner demands, Toyota made some significant changes to the 2020 Tacoma that were not present in the 2019 model. These improvements provide potential owners with a broad range of features with each trim model, making it easier than ever to choose the trim level that’s right for you.

What the standard 2020 Toyota Tacoma offers

In spite of overall acceptance as a good truck, the 2019 Tacoma identified some challenges for meeting owner needs, but the automaker addressed these challenges in the 2020 edition, rolling into a second decade among the top three on the U.S. News Compact Pickup list. What do the base model SR and SR5 versions of the 2020 Tacoma feature?

The overall look of the 2020 Tacoma is sharper and more confident. Some improvements to contours, headlights, grille design, and darker taillights have added an updated look to an aging design rolled out in 2016. Though the same rather weak 159-hp 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine comes standard on SR and SR5 model Tacomas, potential buyers can opt for adding a more substantial 278-hp 3.5-liter V6 to their SR or SR5.

Base model improvements inside include improved seating comfort using soft-touch materials, more padding, better lumbar support, and 10-way driver’s seat adjustment (SR5). Dual-zone climate control is also a part of the list of upgrades.

Toyota has also eliminated a major complaint attached to the 2019 model by upgrading its infotainment system in the 2020 Tacoma, which now includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa standard with their larger 8-inch touchscreen (7 inches in the on SR) display.

Added features in Toyota Tacoma TRD models

Stepping things up a bit, the 2020 Toyota Tacoma offers three trim packages within the TRD series, all of which come with the same upgrades as the SR and SR5 along with the higher performance V6 engine as a standard feature.

TRD Sport upgrades include navigation, proximity keyless entry and push-button start, wireless device charging and a household-style power outlet while rounding things out with a leather-wrapped shift knob, and HD Radio. Double Cab versions add the option of leather upholstery and a moon roof.

In the TRD Off-Road, Toyota has made improvements to the truck’s off-road capabilities, adding more substantial Bilstein shocks and an electronic locking rear differential to help get you through sticky places. 4×4 off-road versions feature multi-terrain select and crawl control with automatic transmissions, and traction control on those with manual transmissions. 

TRD Pro models move up to a completely different level of performance by adding a TRD-tuned suspension and exhaust system while including a higher-level off-road performance with Fox shocks and a front skid plate. An upgraded interior, additional exterior styling, LED fog lights, and Multi-Terrain monitoring with a 360-degree panoramic view for better obstacle avoidance.

What’s included in Limited models?

Though the TRD Pro package is the higher-priced, all-purpose version with better off-road performance, 2020 Tacoma Limited packages add more luxury than muscle. Included among the features of this trim are leather upholstery, a moonroof (double cab), rear parking sensors, a JBL premium stereo system, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view monitor.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma provides a solid selection of trim options for the money

In order to keep the reputation of the 2020 Toyota Tacoma intact and remain atop the list among compact pickups, Toyota stepped up its game and added customer demanded improvements to base-model Tacomas.

Regardless of whether you are looking for a basic reliable truck for lightweight hauling and towing, an off-road monster, or a luxury/urban style pickup, the 2020 Toyota Tacoma will meet your basic needs while providing those must-have extras at an affordable price.