The Toyota Tacoma, America’s best-selling mid-size pickup for 13 years in a row, isn’t stopping to admire its trophy case. Instead, it looks to keep its place atop the pecking order with new tech, style, comfort and convenience features, making the 2020 Tacoma more compelling and more competitive than ever.
The third-generation Tacoma, with a design inspired by Toyota’s legendary desert race trucks, veritably defines the « work hard, play hard » ethos. Available in 32 different configurations, the 2020 Toyota Tacoma offers a model for all seasons and reasons. Six model grades include: work-ready SR; high-style, high-value SR5; athletic TRD Sport; adventurous TRD Off-Road; ultimate off-road TRD Pro; and top-of-the-line Limited.
All Tacoma models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), which includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Departure Alert and Automatic High Beams.
New Look, New Function, New Fun for 2020
Most 2020 Tacomas will debut a new front grille design with detailing tailored to each model grade, while every Toyota Tacoma will feature a revised taillamp design. In the Tacoma’s roomy cabin, a new, larger multimedia touchscreen includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Amazon Alexa compatibility. The SR grade features a 7-inch touchscreen display, while all others get an 8-inch touchscreen.
In addition to the multimedia upgrade, the 2020 SR offers the added convenience of new intermittent windshield wipers and an available LED bed lamp. The SX upgrade package, introduced for 2019 and returning for 2020, turns the SR Access Cab into a high-value sport truck with stylish black-out features, including grille, headlight surrounds, overfenders, 16-inch alloy wheels, mirror caps and door handles.
32 Configurations
The 2020 Tacoma is available in 32 models based on two cab types, the extended Access Cab and four-door Double Cab. Each is available in 4×2 or 4×4 configurations in a wide array of model grades. Access Cab models offer under-seat rear storage space, with fold-up seat cushions to maximize carrying space. Double Cab models feature 60/40 split rear seats with adjustable headrests and under-seat storage.
The Access Cab models ride on a 127.4-inch wheelbase and have a 73.7-inch-long bed. The Double Cab is offered in two versions: the 127.4-inch wheelbase with a 60.5-inch bed or 140.6-inch wheelbase with the 73.7-inch bed. All models use an inner bed made from a sheet-molded composite (SMC) deck and tough, durable walls that are 10-percent lighter than steel.
The tailgate’s easy-lowering feature allows it to retract slowly to prevent it from slamming down. An available factory-installed tri-fold hard tonneau cover secures gear out of sight.
The versatile bed deck features two-tier loading and an integrated deck-rail utility system with four standard adjustable tie-down cleats. Toyota dealers offer a range of Genuine Toyota Accessories that work in conjunction with the deck rail system. Examples include a cargo divider that locks into the rails to help keep cargo from sliding around the bed, and mini tie-downs with hooks that also help to secure cargo. An available 120V/400W power point further extends the bed’s utility.
Designed in America
Tacoma’s chiseled face is anchored by a bold, hexagonal grille and a tall, muscular hood. Its slim, projection beam headlights can be outfitted with available LED daytime running lights. The overfenders accentuate the tough high-lift image while functioning to accommodate the suspension’s generous wheel travel.
The Toyota Tacoma’s wide array of model configurations and options give customers free rein to personalize their vehicles. The Tacoma’s exterior color palette includes Cavalry Blue, Midnight Black Metallic, Barcelona Red, Quicksand, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Silver Metallic, Super White, Cement and, exclusively for the 2020 TRD Pro, Army Green.
Toyota dealers in addition offer a large selection of accessories, including TRD performance components, that expand Tacoma’s utility, comfort, and driving fun.
Multimedia Systems
The 2020 Tacoma’s multimedia system improved across the board. Not only does each Tacoma model get a larger touchscreen, but each vehicle now features Android Auto™, Apple CarPlay®, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. Each vehicle features a six-speaker sound system that includes Handsfree Bluetooth® phone and music capability, USB media port, 2 USB charge ports, and an integrated backup camera display. All vehicles offer SiriusXM capability and include a 3-month All Access Trial.
While the SR model features a 7-inch touchscreen, SR5 models and up are all fitted with an 8-inch touchscreen display. The TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road models offer an available Premium Audio system that adds dynamic navigation. Premium Audio is available on the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road grades but comes standard on Limited and TRD Pro, and it includes six JBL® speakers and subwoofer amplifier.
Safety Standout
Along with standard TSS-P, the Toyota Tacoma also touts the Star Safety System, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), and Smart Stop brake override technology (SST). Every Tacoma has the driver and front passenger Advanced Airbag System, driver and front passenger knee airbags, and front and rear Roll-sensing Side Curtain Airbags.
Active head restraints for the front seats are designed to move up and slightly forward during a rear-end collision to help reduce the risk of whiplash. Additional standard safety features include a Tire Pressure Monitor System (with individual tire location alert on most grades).
Limited Warranty and ToyotaCare
Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation. The Tacoma also comes standard with ToyotaCare, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.
