Key Features of the 2026 Toyota Tacoma

i-FORCE Turbocharged 2.4-Liter Power

Every non-hybrid Tacoma is built around a responsive turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, offering two states of tune. The entry variant is robust for everyday use, while the i-FORCE configuration found on most trims delivers up to 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. This pairing gives the Tacoma the kind of flexible muscle that pays off across scenarios—confident passing on two-lane roads, steady highway cruising, and precise throttle control on gravel, mud, or rock. The tuning balances low-end thrust with linear response, helping you modulate wheelspin and momentum on technical surfaces and maintain relaxed refinement in town. The engine is engineered to complement the Tacoma’s frame and suspension choices, providing a solid foundation for towing, payload, and off-pavement exploration without sacrificing daily drivability.

Six-Speed Manual or Eight-Speed Automatic

Enthusiasts appreciate that the Tacoma remains one of the only pickups to offer a six-speed manual transmission. Its gear spacing and clutch action are tuned for a natural feel, enhancing driver engagement on twisty roads and steep grades. For shoppers who prioritize convenience and smoothness, the eight-speed automatic brings refined shifts that adapt well to both urban traffic and long-distance travel. The automatic’s programming supports the engine’s torque curve, reducing hunting on climbs and delivering confident downshifts for passing. Rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations are available, letting you pick the traction strategy that fits your routes and seasons. Together, these choices underscore the Tacoma’s mission—provide genuine truck control for drivers who want it and everyday ease for those who prefer it.

Coil-Spring Rear Suspension Refinement

Body-on-frame toughness remains at the heart of the Tacoma, but ride comfort and handling have taken a meaningful step forward on select trims with available rear coil springs. Compared to traditional leaf springs, the coil setup better isolates bumps, improves composure on broken pavement, and refines body control during cornering and lane changes. The result is a truck that feels more settled in town and on the highway while preserving the durability and load management that midsize truck owners expect. Trims such as SR and SR5 XtraCab retain a proven leaf-spring design for simplicity and strength, while other models adopt the coil-spring layout for elevated comfort. If your routes include a blend of commuting, weekend towing, and light to moderate off-roading, the coil-equipped variants hit a sweet spot between toughness and polish.

Towing and Payload Capability

The Tacoma makes capability easy to use and confidence-inspiring. When properly equipped, towing reaches up to 6500 pounds, giving you headroom for campers, boats, and utility trailers. Payload tops out at up to 1705 pounds on non-hybrid models, so bed-stacking gear, lumber, or adventure equipment is straightforward. What stands out is how composed the truck feels with weight onboard—credit the strong frame, purposeful suspension tuning, and well-matched powertrain. Proper equipment and technique matter, and the Tacoma’s available trail and towing aids support confident operation in real-world scenarios. If you prefer the hybrid powertrain, note that its tow rating is capped at 6000 pounds, while payload can reach up to 1710 pounds—useful figures for drivers focused on efficiency with capability.

Toyota Safety Sense™ 3.0 and Driver Assistance

Confidence is standard. Every Tacoma includes a robust suite of driver-assistance features that help you stay aware and supported. Core systems include forward-collision warning with automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert further enhance awareness during lane changes and parking-lot maneuvering. The design philosophy is clear—assist the driver without getting in the way. On the highway, adaptive cruise reduces fatigue, while lane-keeping support helps the truck track straight in windy or rutted conditions. In low-visibility night driving, automatic high beams add confidence. These technologies complement the Tacoma’s structural strength and mechanical capability, delivering peace of mind whether you are navigating rush-hour traffic or heading up into the foothills after sunset.