Zac Quinn 
In a time when Toyota’s midsize truck competitors are implementing more technology and capability than ever before, the third-gen (N300) of the Toyota Tacoma is getting outdated. Despite that, it appears to remain the most popular midsize truck in North America, backed by a very strong quality reputation, strong residual value, and incredible aftermarket support. But the competition from General Motors (Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon) and the new Ford Ranger look to upset the long-running middleweight truck champion. Not staying still, a new generation of the Toyota Tacoma/Hilux is on the way, and a design patent registration from Brazil found by Motor1 gives us an undisguised look at the new truck.
It looks an awful lot like the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado, if you ask us.
Next-Generation Toyota Tacoma Design: Details
In the front, the Toyota Tacoma shares similarities to the new Tundra. For example, there are small slats beneath each headlight, along with rectangular fog lights that integrate into the lower portion of the bumper. They also share strongly creased hoods and, of course, the shape of the headlights. The Tacoma also gains additional inlets in the fender flares, which adds to a more rugged look, but whether the inlets do anything remains to be seen. Since Toyota owns Lexus, and we all know how much they like their massive grilles, it could be for show.
The truck’s profile features boxier fender flares than the current generation Tacoma. A creased section runs along the lower part of the doors and dips down diagonally at the front. Meanwhile, the back features bracket-shaped taillights with a design similar to the Tundra; there’s also a small window to open in the rear glass. Unfortunately, the images only let us see the truck’s exterior, so the interior remains a mystery. Though, with the similarities on the outside with the Toyota Tundra, Tacoma’s cabin might also be similar to its bigger cousin.
Reports indicate that the new Tacoma will have two engine options available. A 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 265 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque. Or a hybrid-assisted turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder. This powerplant is currently available in the Lexus RX 500h, where the setup makes 366 ponies and 406 lb-ft of torque. Alternatively, it has 340 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque in the Toyota Crown. Both routes indicate that the next-generation Tacoma will be able to keep up with the competition with the help of electrification.
The new Tacoma reportedly rides on the TNGA-F platform, which has the same underpinnings as the Tundra, which indicates that the smaller truck could have more room than the current generation.
