New Toyota Tacomas can cost up to $65,000 -- here's what separates the three best ones

The 2026 Toyota Tacoma lineup, explained from Detroit-based automotive expert Carl Anthony, spans eight trims and rides on Toyota’s TNGA-F platform shared with the Tundra, Sequoia, and Land Cruiser. All models use a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, with 228 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque in the base SR, and 278 hp and 317 lb-ft in higher trims, paired with an eight-speed automatic; a six-speed manual is available on select i-FORCE models delivering 270 hp and 310 lb-ft. The i-FORCE MAX hybrid boosts to 326 hp and 465 lb-ft, while the Trailhunter tops at 323 hp. Chassis weight is reduced by high-strength steel and aluminum panels. Eight trims cater to work-truck to desert-ROVER off-road roles, with the Tacoma sharing the TNGA-F platform with larger Toyota trucks. Prices can reach up to $65,000, and buyers contrast the Tacoma with the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, and Nissan Frontier.