2016–2017: The Start of the Third Generation

The 2016 Tacoma launched the third-gen platform with a stiffer frame, a more muscular design, and new technology. Two engines were offered: the proven 2.7L four-cylinder and the all-new 3.5L V6 with dual-injection technology. TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road trims made their debut, offering factory lockers, Bilstein shocks, and Crawl Control. In 2017, Toyota expanded options with the TRD Pro, a hardcore factory off-road package that included FOX shocks, skid plates, and aggressive styling. These years established the Tacoma as the midsize truck to beat.

2018–2019: Refinements and Growing Enthusiast Culture

By 2018, Toyota smoothed out transmission tuning and improved cabin tech, making the Tacoma more livable for daily drivers while retaining its rugged trail chops. Buyers increasingly chose the TRD Off-Road and Pro trims as ready-made adventure rigs, while the Limited trim catered to those wanting SUV-like comfort in a truck. In 2019, Toyota added more safety tech as standard (Toyota Safety Sense), a move that gave the Tacoma an edge over rivals like the Chevy Colorado and Nissan Frontier.

2020–2021: Tech Upgrades & TRD Pro Evolution

The Tacoma received a refresh in 2020, bringing a larger touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and improved ergonomics. The TRD Pro gained new FOX QS3 dampers, skid plates, and unique styling, keeping it relevant as a serious off-road competitor. By 2021, Toyota continued focusing on tech and convenience — more safety systems, better infotainment, and small refinements across trims. These updates kept the Tacoma competitive even as new midsize rivals emerged.

2022–2023: Mature Third-Gen with Strong Aftermarket

In 2022 and 2023, the Tacoma remained largely the same structurally but was bolstered by one of the largest aftermarket ecosystems of any truck. Lift kits, long-travel suspension systems, steel bumpers, armor, and lighting upgrades became common for owners looking to build custom rigs. The TRD Pro continued to serve enthusiasts who wanted factory capability out of the box, while the SR5 and Sport trims offered budget-friendly platforms for modification.

2024–2025: The Next Era — TNGA-F and Hybrid Power

2024 marked a complete redesign of the Tacoma, now built on Toyota’s TNGA-F platform shared with the Tundra and Land Cruiser. This generation introduced coil-spring rear suspension on most trims (leaf springs remained for work-focused variants), a bold new exterior, and a modernized interior with a massive 14-inch touchscreen and digital cluster.

The big news was under the hood: Toyota ditched the old V6, replacing it with a 2.4L turbo-four across the lineup. Standard trims made between 228–278 hp, while the i-FORCE MAX Hybrid pushed output to 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque — the most powerful Tacoma ever. Trims like the TRD Pro and all-new Trailhunter pushed factory off-road and overlanding capability to new heights, offering FOX QS3 shocks, sway bar disconnects, 33-inch tires, ARB bumpers, and snorkel-ready intakes.

By 2025, the Tacoma was firmly positioned as the most enthusiast-focused midsize pickup available. It blended Toyota’s reliability with genuine off-road chops, advanced hybrid torque delivery, and the aftermarket support to build anything from a daily commuter to a desert runner or long-haul overlander.