The 2016 Tacoma produces 278 horsepower, an increase of 42 horsepower over the previous generation.Photo: Toyota
The 2016 Toyota Tacoma was named the Mid-size Pickup Truck of Texas at the Texas Auto Writers Association’s (TAWA) annual Texas Truck Rodeo event.
After two days of on and off-road driving at Knibbe Ranch in Spring Branch, Texas, journalists voted for their favorite pickup trucks, SUVs and CUVs in 17 categories. This year, 69 journalists attend the event to test drive 88 vehicles from the world’s top truck manufacturers.
TAWA is a Texas-based nonprofit association for automotive journalists promoting professionalism and quality in journalism for more than two decades. TAWA produces two annual events – Texas Auto Roundup and Texas Truck Rodeo – that allow members to experience vehicles from various manufacturers in one place, at one time.
Assembled in part at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Texas (TMMTX) in San Antonio, the 2016 Tacoma impressed Texas journalists with its new 3.5-liter V6 powertrain, trophy-style design and off-road technology. With a new aggressive upper grille and a taller, more muscular hood, the 2016 Tacoma’s redesigned exterior stays true to its desert racing heritage.
From behind, the truck adds a new locking tailgate with an integrated spoiler for improved aerodynamics. A stamped Tacoma logo completes the look. The Tacoma’s interior features a sporty design theme with a standard GoPro mount located near the rear view mirror.
Now offering an all-new V6 with a segment-first Atkinson Cycle engine, the 2016 Tacoma produces 278 horsepower, an increase of 42 horsepower over the previous generation. For those traveling off the beaten path, the Tacoma’s TRD Off-Road grade offers an all-new Crawl Control system, which takes over the truck’s acceleration and braking, allowing drivers to focus on navigating over tough terrain.
