Toyota Announces 2026 Highlander with Standard AWD on Gas Models
The 2026 Toyota Tacoma Has Arrived
Toyota released details on the upcoming 2026 Tacoma, including trims, off-road features, performance, and more.

The 2026 Toyota Tacoma features updated trim designs, new color options, expanded hybrid availability, and enhanced off-road equipment across the lineup.
Photo: Toyota
The Toyota Tacoma has officially entered 2026.
This year’s updates include a black front logo on the TRD Off-Road, TRD Sport, and TRD Pre-Runner trims, along with 18-inch TRD wheels and 32-inch Goodyear all-terrain tires featured in the TRD Off-Road i-FORCE premium package. New Heritage Blue and Wave Maker colors are exclusive to the TRD Pro. Additionally, a tow hitch is now standard on SR XtraCab models.
Tacoma offers two engine choices—the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, with 326 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and has an EPA-estimated 23 MPG. The standard i-FORCE 2.4L turbocharged engine delivers up to 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, with an EPA-estimated 26 MPG rating on the highway. A six-speed intelligent manual transmission with rev-matching and stall avoidance is available on select i-FORCE models.
The Trailhunter exclusively uses the i-FORCE MAX hybrid, offering a choice of 5- or 6-foot beds. Key off-road features include Old Man Emu monotube shocks, a high-mount air intake, 33-inch Goodyear tires on 18-inch bronze wheels, fog lamps, and a bronze "TOYOTA" grille with integrated LED lights.
The TRD Pro uses an air-over-oil shock absorber system to reduce body movement and stabilize the head and neck on rough terrain. The TRD Pro also has TRD-tuned FOX QS3 adjustable shocks with remote rear piggyback reservoirs, a TRD performance air intake, 33-inch Goodyear tires on black 18-inch alloy wheels, and two-tone paint options.
Tacoma’s drivetrain options include 2WD, part-time 4WD, and full-time 4WD. Most i-FORCE MAX models come standard with four-wheel drive (4WD), while Limited trims feature full-time four-wheel drive. The smooth Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) is now standard on all limited models.
The 2026 Tacoma is expected to hit Toyota dealerships this winter, with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price starting at $32,145. The TRD Pro in Wave Maker color is expected to arrive at dealerships in March of 2026.
Chassis and Suspension
Tacoma rides on Toyota’s TNGA-F global truck platform, which is also shared with the Tundra, Land Cruiser, and Sequoia. The chassis is made from high-strength steel, utilizing welding techniques and aluminum body panels, which help reduce weight. Reinforced frame crossmembers boost durability, and a high-lift jack point is integrated into the rear frame.
A highlight of the fourth generation is the coil spring multi-link rear suspension, available on most trims, which significantly improves ride comfort and handling both on and off the road.
The TRD Sport features sport-tuned shocks for a responsive drive, while the TRD Off-Road is equipped with monotube Bilstein piggyback reservoir shocks for extended wheel travel and heat dissipation, along with an end stop control valve for added damping near full compression.
TRD Pro features TRD-tuned FOX QS3 adjustable shocks with rear piggyback reservoirs and external FOX IFP bump stops for off-road performance. Trailhunter offers Old Man Emu monotube shocks with rear piggyback reservoirs, optimized for control and load capacity.
Limited trims are equipped with Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), which continuously adjusts damping forces through built-in actuators to provide a smooth and luxurious ride.
All Tacoma models come standard with front and rear disc brakes for enhanced control and reduced pedal fatigue, as well as Electric Power Steering (EPS).
Off-Road Features
Tacoma’s off-road prowess features the Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism (SDM) as a standard on the Trailhunter and TRD Pro models and is also available on the TRD Off-Road model. SDM enhances suspension articulation with the push of a button and is compatible with Toyota-approved lift kits.
Drivers of TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter models can use the Multi-Terrain Monitor, displayed on the available 14-inch touchscreen, to spot obstacles on the trail. Underbody protection and front recovery hooks are standard on all models, with additional rear recovery points and protection available on the TRD Pro and Trailhunter.
Multi-Terrain Select provides tailored traction for various surfaces. CRAWL Control enables low-speed off-road control. The available locking rear differential distributes power for traction, while Downhill Assist Control helps maintain speed on descents.
Tacoma tows up to 6,500 lbs. with a payload of 1,705 lbs. Available features include a trailer brake controller, digital rearview mirror, and Trailer Back Up Guide with sensors and a top-down camera view.
A wireless trailer camera is an available option, delivering a live HD feed of the trailer’s rear view on the digital rearview mirror. A manual headlight leveling switch is also introduced for glare reduction during towing or loaded trips.
Tacoma Trims
Tacoma is available in SR, SR5, TRD Pro, TRD Off-Road, TRD Sport, Limited, and Trailhunter trims, with two cab styles (Double Cab and Xtra Cab) and bed lengths of 5 or 6 feet.
XtraCab, available on SR, SR5, and TRD PreRunner, has a spacious rear storage area behind the front seats, including lockable compartments and a fold-flat passenger seat that doubles as a workspace.
The i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain is available on the TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and Limited models, and is standard on the TRD Pro and Trailhunter models. Hybrid models also feature a standard 2400W AC power supply in both the cabin and bed.
TRD Off-Road i-FORCE MAX models come with 33-inch FALKEN WildPeak all-terrain tires and 18-inch alloy wheels, complementing Bilstein shocks and the available SDM.
The Limited offers heated and ventilated SofTex front seats, walnut accents, running boards, a Head-Up Display, a 14-inch screen, JBL Audio with a portable speaker, a digital rearview mirror, and a power moonroof.
Trailhunter is an overlanding-focused vehicle, available in two bed lengths, and features mineral-colored SofTex seats, Old Man Emu shocks, an ARB rear bumper with recovery points, and an ARB modular sport bar with MOLLE panels.
TRD Pro highlights: TRD FOX QS3 shocks, IsoDynamic Performance Front Seats (Black or Cockpit Red SofTex with camo inserts), TRD air intake, dual-tip exhaust, exclusive styling including 20-inch LED light bar, RIGID fog lamps, and ARB rear bumper.
The color lineup includes Mudbath, Heritage Blue (replacing Blue Crush Metallic), Underground, Celestial Silver Metallic, Black, Ice Cap, Bronze Oxide, and the exclusive TRD Pro Wave Maker. Premium colors, such as Supersonic Red and Wind Chill Pearl, are also available.
Modern Technology
Tacoma features an 8-inch standard or available 14-inch multimedia touchscreen with Toyota’s latest Audio Multimedia system, which supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A Qi wireless charging pad with enhanced output, USB-C data and charging ports, and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster on i-FORCE MAX models enhances connectivity.
The Smart Key System with push-button start is standard across all trim levels. With an active Remote Connect subscription (4G network dependent), the available Digital Key allows smartphone-based vehicle access and starting, with remote sharing capabilities. A credit card-sized Card Key is also available for convenience.
Music enthusiasts will appreciate the ten-speaker JBL premium audio system, featuring an externally coupled subwoofer, as well as the JBL FLEX portable speaker, which is standard on Limited, Trailhunter, and TRD Pro models and available on TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road models. The JBL FLEX charges on the dash and, when connected to a Bluetooth device, can be used wirelessly for up to six hours.
Performance
The i-FORCE MAX Tacoma features standard Drive Mode Select, allowing drivers to switch between Normal, Eco, and Sport modes that adjust the throttle, transmission, HVAC, and steering. Limited trims add Sport S+, Comfort, and a customizable mode for personalized driving dynamics. Tow/Haul mode is standard on all i-FORCE MAX models for performance when towing.
Toyota Safety Sense 3.0
The 2026 Tacoma comes equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, featuring:
Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
Lane Tracing Assist
Road Sign Assist
Automatic High Beams
Proactive Driving Assist
An additional convenience feature is Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) for awareness.
Warranty and Care
Toyota backs the 2026 Tacoma with a 36-month/36,000-mile basic warranty, 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain coverage, and corrosion protection for 60 months with no mileage limit. Hybrid components are covered for 8 years/100,000 miles, and the hybrid battery is covered for 10 years/150,000 miles, both of which are transferable across owners.
ToyotaCare offers two years or 25,000 miles of factory-scheduled maintenance, as well as two years of unlimited mileage roadside assistance.
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