2026 Toyota Tacoma: Covering All Bases and Price Points

The latest Toyota Tacoma may not be as great as we initially anticipated, ranking third out of five in a midsize pickup comparison we did last year, but it remains by far the number one seller despite significantly higher prices. Its 12,048 units sold in Canada during the first three quarters of 2025 (a 51% increase compared to the same period in 2024) put it way ahead of all the competition. In fact, the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon (12,339 units combined) only managed to beat it by a hair.

The 2026 model is now on sale and the changes are fairly minor. Two new trim levels have been added to the lineup (SR5+ and TRD Off-Road+), the TRD Off-Road models gain a full-size spare tire, the TRD Off-Road Premium receives 18-inch wheels, and the extremely capable TRD Pro stands out with a different signature colour called New Wave (blue), which you can see in the photo gallery above.

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Alas, Tacoma prices keep rising. We're talking about hikes ranging from just a few hundred dollars to around $1,700, depending on the trim level. Incidentally, Canadian counter-tariffs are irrelevant here since the Tacoma is made in Mexico. Pricing (MSRP) ranges from $48,895 to $85,327, not including the various fees that amount to $3,658.

14 Configurations, From Basic to Ultra-Niche

Hardworking yet playful, the Tacoma's success is built on an excellent reputation for durability (hence its high resale value) as well as a wide array of models and configurations. For 2026, there are 14 of them, including two bed lengths and two powertrain options, with the i-Force MAX hybrid system reserved for the four top-of-the-line Tacoma models. There truly is something for every taste and need.

Our latest test drive took place in December with a Tacoma Trailhunter, the most expensive and most adventurous in the lineup. Forget pavement: this ultra-niche truck is purely aimed at overlanding enthusiasts. Snow-covered dirt roads and terrain didn't allow us to use it as intended, including the sway bar disconnect feature that enables greater suspension articulation on rough or rocky surfaces.

The Trailhunter is based on the TRD Off-Road Premium model and adds a power tailgate, TOYOTA heritage front grille with LED light bar, dual colour Rigid fog lamps, bed utility bar with removable MOLLE panels and ARB steel rear bumper with two red recovery hooks. A high-mount air intake on the right A-pillar helps the engine breathe in extreme conditions, the exclusive 18-inch bronze wheels are clad in 33-inch Goodyear Territory RT tires and controlled by impressive Old Man Emu shocks, rock rails and hot-stamped steel skid plates protect the lower body and under body, and finally a roof rack and onboard air compressor complete the package.

The Tacoma Trailhunter is the heaviest of the group at 2,455 kg, and handling is further compromised by the 6-foot-long cargo bed. Remember, the primary purpose of this truck is to haul as much cargo and gear as possible. In this respect, it is similar to most TRD Sport models.

For ultimate off-road capability, the solution remains the agile Tacoma TRD Pro (5-foot bed), which boasts increased suspension travel and improved approach and departure angles. Its high-performance TRD exhaust system delivers an even more aggressive sound, while its IsoDynamic Performance seats (featuring their own integrated dampers) are unique in the segment. Oh, and the TRD Pro costs nearly $6,000 less than the Trailhunter.

Gas vs. Hybrid

The first ten trim levels of the 2026 Toyota Tacoma use a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine that produces up to 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque with the 8-speed automatic transmission. The latter performs well and never seems to hesitate. Incidentally, the Tacoma is still the only pickup to offer a 6-speed manual transmission option (TRD Off-Road and TRD Sport+ models with a 5-foot bed only), which slightly reduces power and torque (270 hp, 310 lb-ft). The maximum towing capacity of 6,400 lbs is trumped by every single competitor.

It's even worse with the i-Force MAX system, which can tow a maximum of 6,000 lbs. The addition of an electric motor to the turbocharged engine is designed to optimize performance: the 326 horsepower surpasses GM's duo, but it's mainly the class-leading 465 lb-ft of torque available from 1,700 rpm that makes the difference in acceleration and gives the Tacoma Hybrid great flexibility at both low and high speeds. Throttle response is almost instantaneous.

What about fuel consumption? If you're familiar with the old 3.5-litre V6 and six-speed transmission, you might be pleased by the new turbocharged four-cylinder's 11-12 L/100 km official ratings. In reality, according to our various tests, the fuel savings are negligible. The hybrid system, meanwhile, doesn't focus so much on saving fuel, even though it theoretically achieves a figure as low as 10.1 L/100 km. Without carrying heavy loads, our Trailhunter in winter conditions (-20 to -5 degrees Celsius) ended up burning 16.6 L/100 km.

One last thing to emphasize: dependability isn't really an issue, regardless of the powertrain you select. Despite all the troubles and complaints we've heard about the larger Tundra since its redesign, the Tacoma has a much better track record, even ranking among the ten best 2026 models for predicted reliability according to U.S. magazine Consumer Reports.

Our Verdict

In short, the 2026 Toyota Tundra stands out for its solid build quality, reasonable fuel economy, potent hybrid powertrain and great overall value. The wide range of models and configurations cannot be ignored. Technology and safety features are commendable, although the infotainment interface doesn't quite match the competition. Also, keep in mind that rear-seat legroom is fairly limited, material selection is at times unremarkable, and the ride isn't quite as comfortable or pleasant as that of American rivals (with the exception of the Jeep Gladiator, of course).

The Tacoma's high prices and insurance premiums are definitely something to factor into the equation, too. As far as midsize pickups go, we still think it’s a good buy, and the strong sales confirm this.