Next-Gen Toyota Tacoma And 4Runner Getting Big Changes

It took Toyota 14 years to redesign the Tundra, but the wait was worth it. Boasting a more aggressive design and a new V6 hybrid, the all-new2022 Toyota Tundrafinallydebuted earlier this week, enabling Toyota to take on the new Ford F-150 and Ram 1500. But what about the mid-sizeTacomatruck and4RunnerSUV? While the Tacoma received afacelift for the 2022 model year, the current-generation model was introduced back in 2015 and went on sale for the 2016 model year.

Likewise, the 4Runner hasn't been redesigned since 2010, but this will soon change according to a new report by MotorTrend. To reduce costs and streamline production, the new Tacoma and 4Runner will reportedly share the same global platform as the next-generation Toyota Hilux and Fortuner.

The Tacoma was introduced to the US market in 1995 to replace the Hilux, which was sold in the US as the Toyota Pickup until 1997. Currently, the Hilux is underpinned by the IMV platform, but the next-generation version will share the same TNGA-F platform as the new Tundra and Land Cruiser.

The new Tundra and Land Cruiser share the same ladder frame built in different lengths depending on the model. They also share the same suspension setup incorporating control arms at the front and a five-link setup with coil springs and a live axle in the rear.

Under the hood, the Tundra and Land Cruiser also share the same 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 and ten-speed automatic transmission. This means the new Tacoma, 4Runner, Hilux, and Fortuner will also share the same ladder frame, suspension setup, and some engine options.

Since they will also share the same electrical architecture, the new Tacoma and 4Runner will get significant tech upgrades including new infotainment systems, driving assists, and safety tech. It remains to be seen when these changes will happen, but let's hope it happens sooner rather than later because the Tacoma and 4Runner are overdue for a redesign.