The recent update has brought various novelties to this popular mid-size truck. However, it looks like truck enthusiasts have expected more from this refresh. Many of the expected changed remained nothing else but unfulfilled desires for them. Therefore, it’s no wonder that we are now getting reports about 2021 Toyota Tacoma changes, despite that it seems pretty obvious that this model year should be nothing more than a typical carryover.
We can hear talks about new powertrain options, while some reports even suggest a complete overhaul, given the lack of changes. Still, keep in mind that these are just rumors. Of course, it is still early for official details, but we are pretty sure that Tacoma is going to stay in the current form for a couple of more years for sure. This also means it should hit the market in a typical time of year, sometime in the last quarter of 2020.
2021 Toyota Tacoma Rumors
Despite the recent refresh, a lot of 2021 Toyota Tacoma rumors can be found on the internet these days. Of course, most of them suggest those changes that were expected to bee seen in the 2020 model year. This primarily refers to the engine lineup, which remained the same. Also, some 2021 Toyota Tacoma news speculates about possible styling changes.
The fact is that the recent update wasn’t very generous when it comes to these aspects. On the other side, we have seen lots of interesting novelties, particularly in terms of new features. This particularly refers to interior features, such as a new infotainment system and larger touchscreens. Also, a power-adjustable driver seat is finally available.
Of course, these weren’t the only changes we’ve seen in the 2020 Tacoma. There is a whole bunch of other novelties, including two amazing camera-based systems that show everything that is happening around and underneath the truck, which is very convenient for off-roading. Speaking of the off-road ride, a high-performance TRD Pro model came with new Fox shocks, higher ground clearance and a new, very attractive Army Green color option.
Given all these novelties, it seems clear that the 2021 Toyota Tacoma redesign won’t happen. On the other side, we can’t be 100% sure when it comes to engine rumors.
2021 Toyota Tacoma Diesel
One of the most anticipated novelties for the recent design was a diesel version of this mid-size pickup truck. However, it didn’t happen. Therefore, reports about this novelty have been moved for the next year. In our humble opinion, chances to see 2021 Toyota Tacoma Diesel are minimal. We are pretty sure that Toyota won’t introduce any new powertrain option before a complete overhaul. Even if we see some novelties, a hybrid model seems like a much safer bet.
In any case, things about the possible diesel engine are pretty clear. That would be a familiar 2.8-liter turbodiesel, the same one that can be found in HiLux and Land Cruiser Prado. With this engine, Tacoma would solve the two most critical issues of the current version – fuel economy and towing capacity. The current version of the engine delivers around 177 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque, though we wouldn’t be surprised if we see some slight power boost.
Hybrid
Another big speculation is a hybrid version of the 2021 Toyota Tacoma. The Japanese manufacturer is the industry leader when it comes to hybrid technologies, so such a version seems natural. We can find various reports that suggest different configurations, with either four-cylinder- or six-cylinder based systems. However, we believe that none of these models will come before a complete overhaul which, to be honest, doesn’t look that far away.
Engines
As we’ve just mentioned, new powertrain options probably won’t happen, despite the rumors and numerous reports. Therefore, you may count on two familiar gasoline options in the offer. Base models will carry on with a 2.7-liter four-cylinder unit, which delivers around 160 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque.
Still, if you want something more than just a regular daily workhorse, an optional V6 is definitely our recommendation. This model comes with a quite capable 3.5-liter V6 engine, which features a max output of 278 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. Also, you can count on pretty decent 6.800 pounds of max towing capacity with this engine, though these numbers are still far away from class leaders like Chevy Colorado or Ford Ranger.
Both engines come in pair with a 6-speed automatic transmission, though a 6-speed manual is available in TRD Pro models.
2021 Toyota Tacoma Release Date and Price
When it comes to the 2021 Toyota Tacoma release date, we are pretty sure that the next-year model will hit the market in a typical time of year, sometime in the last quarter of 2020. When it comes to the price, base models should go around 26.000 dollars. The most expensive, TRD Pro models cost significantly more, with a starting price of 45.500 dollars.
