Latest news with #TRDPro
Forbes
23-05-2025
- Automotive
- Forbes
Toyota Does It Again With A Smashing New TRD Pro Color: Wave Maker
2026 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro in Wave Maker. Every year, Toyota comes up with a new marquee paint color for its Toyota Racing Development line, called TRD Pro. That finish is used only on Toyota TRD Pro vehicles, which now includes the 4Runner, Sequoia, Tacoma, and Tundra. Over the years, a few of my favorites tend to be in the blue-hue family, like Cavalry Blue from 2018 and VooDoo Blue in 2019 (however, I have to admit there's something about the 2022 Electric Lime that I can't quit). For 2026, Toyota has debuted a vibrant turquoise blue called Wave Maker, and to me, it takes the crown for the best TRD Pro color of all time. 2026 Toyota TRD Pro lineup in new Wave Maker finish. Toyota says ice, water, and even outer space inspired its designers for this standout color. 'We had a few years of warm natural hues inspired by traditional landscapes like Terra and Mudbath as signature colors. With Wave Maker, we were inspired by unexplored areas of adventure including extreme territory and even beyond earth,' says Benjamin Jimenez, general manager at Toyota's CALTY design team in Ann Arbor. 'Wave Maker expresses an elemental spirit that evokes images of glacial depths and the thrill of new frontiers.' 2026 Toyota TRD Pro SUV in new Wave Maker finish. This is the eleventh year in a row Toyota has debuted a new TRD Pro color, starting in 2015 with Inferno. It was such a hit the brand opted to keep it going. Last year's Mudbath color was a terra firma brown, a good fit for a trim voted 'most likely to get really dirty' in the Toyota yearbook. TRD Pro vehicles are kitted out with off-road accoutrements like adjustable 2.5-inch Fox Internal Bypass shocks, unique stabilizer bars, and more. The CALTY design team looks at market trends to see what colors are hot, but they aren't driven by trends alone. TRD Pro vehicles have to inspire a sense of adventure and exploring that others don't, and color is beyond skin deep for this lineup. Wave Maker represents that spirit of off-roading, and while it may not blend in with the terrain as much as Mudbath or Quicksand, it stands out in a sea of sometimes boring colors on the road. According to AAA, white, black, gray, and silver are the most popular car colors. However, popular doesn't mean it's the best choice in all cases. Consider statistics from this research: 'According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, black, silver, white, green and gold are the colors most associated with vehicle thefts,' AAA reports. 'Colors that more easily blend in with a crowd–white, gray, silver and black–tend to be reported stolen the most.' With this bright blue, it's hard to imagine it could be missed, even in the fog and in the dark. The newest Toyota TRD Pro color, Wave Maker, is at the top of my list. It's unmistakable and distinctive, and if that's your personality too this could be the right one for you. 2026 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro in new Wave Maker finish.
Car and Driver
22-05-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid Review, Pricing, and Specs
Overview The Toyota Tacoma is the poster child for mid-size off-road trucking, and its hybrid variant stays true to that image, but with more power and slightly better fuel economy. Hybrid assistance is provided by an electric motor located between the engine and transmission, granting 326 horsepower—45 more ponies than the highest-output nonhybrid model. While that electrified oomph makes the Tacoma Hybrid feel lively off the line, it isn't enough to counteract the hybrid system's added weight, which ultimately wins the battle of forces. While the hybrid Taco offers a little extra zest and a marginal fuel-economy advantage over the nonhybrid, we'd stick to the classic recipe and save a chunk of change. What's New for 2026? TRD Pro-exclusive paint colors have become somewhat of a tradition for Toyota at this point, and the Tacoma Hybrid lineup gets a new one for 2026. The highly saturated blue color is called WaveMaker, and has a certain neon-cotton-candy vibe to it. For the time being, WaveMaker is only available on the Tacoma Hybrid TRD Pro for 2026, but it will likely be made available on lesser trims in model years to come. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid is expected to start around $48,000 and go up to $66,000 depending on the trim and options. TRD Sport $48,000 (est) TRD Off Road $49,000 (est) Limited $58,000 (est) Trailhunter $65,000 (est) TRD Pro $66,000 (est) 0 $10k $20k $30k $40k $50k $60k $70k $80k $90k $100k The TRD Off-Road model strikes us as the best value among the Tacoma Hybrids. It features a composite front skid plate for extra off-road protection and comes with 17-inch wheels with all-terrain tires. We'd order the Audio Multimedia Upgrade package, which swaps the TRD Off-Road's standard 8.0-inch infotainment screen for a much larger 14-inch unit. Otherwise, we'd go light on the options since the hybrid model's price premium pushes the cost ever closer to full-size pickup truck territory. Engine, Transmission, and Performance The Tacoma's hybrid powertrain is called i-Force Max, and it pumps out 326 horses and a strong 465 pound-feet of torque. It features an electric motor between the engine and transmission and a small nickel-metal hydride battery. For the Trailhunter and TRD Pro trims, this hybrid setup is the only option, but it's possible to get the other trims listed above with a nonhybrid powertrain (reviewed separately). But for off-road enthusiasts, the Tacoma Hybrid's top two trims are likely the most attractive. They come fortified with underbody protection, knobby 33-inch Goodyear Territory R/T tires, and exclusive suspension components. The TRD Pro, for instance, features a standard disconnecting front anti-roll bar and unique 2.5-inch dampers with remote reservoirs. During our test drive, we were able to sample several models, including a mid-range Limited, a TRD Off-Road, and a top-spec TRD Pro. On the road, the Tacoma Hybrid's ride is firm but agreeable. The TRD Pro exhibited a surprising amount of refinement, delivering the smoothest ride of the models we sampled. It also proved to be quite capable on a simulated off-road course that included several places where we were able to get the truck slightly airborne to test its bump absorption. Unfortunately, the hybrid models are heavier than their nonhybrid counterparts, meaning that the i-Force Max's extra power doesn't make for quicker acceleration. 0–60-MPH Times In our testing, the Tacoma Hybrid TRD Off-Road got to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds and the TRD Pro did the deed in 7.7 seconds. Those results are both several ticks slower than the nonhybrid Tacoma models we've tested. View Exterior Photos Marc Urbano | Car and Driver Towing and Payload Capacity The hybrid i-Force Max is capped at a 6000-pound tow rating and can carry a payload of up to 1709 pounds. The nonhybrid Tacoma tows slightly more with a 6500-pound maximum, but its payload capacity drops by four pounds. Gas-powered rivals from Ford, Chevrolet, and GMC can tow more as well. Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG The EPA hasn't released any fuel economy information for the 2026 Tacoma Hybrid yet, but last year's model received ratings of 23 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. That gave the hybrid a three-mpg advantage over last year's nonhybrid 4WD Tacoma in the city and a measly one-mpg advantage on the highway. When we get a chance, we'll take the Tacoma Hybrid on our 75-mph highway fuel economy route and update this story with its real-world test results. For more information about the Tacoma Hybrid's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo Inside, the Tacoma Hybrid offers a modern design and decent space. Every model offers a raised seating position with plentiful headroom. The dashboard boasts nice materials along with high-resolution screens and easy-to-use traditional button-and-knob switchgear. While the TRD Sport has a 7.0-inch digital display in the gauge cluster, TRD Off-Road models and up feature a larger 12.3-inch all-digital gauge display. A head-up display comes standard on the Limited and above, with those models also packing heated-and-cooled front seats. Speaking of seats, the TRD Pro offers what it calls IsoDynamic front seats with a shock-absorbing, air-over-oil internal suspension system that's designed to lessen the pounding the driver takes over rough off-road terrain. The seat can move slightly fore-and-aft, side-to-side, and up-and-down to ease the jostling of off-road driving. It locks in place for on-road driving, too, but the seatbacks are bulky and intrude on rear-seat legroom. Speaking of intrusion, the Tacoma Hybrid's battery pack rides in the space beneath the rear seat. This eliminates the storage area that's usually there in the nonhybrid model, so if you're planning on stashing tools or cargo there, you'll have to find another space. View Interior Photos Marc Urbano | Car and Driver Infotainment and Connectivity An 8.0-inch touchscreen is the standard infotainment system on TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road models. The Limited model is where the bigger 14.0-inch touchscreen gets involved, and it's also the centerpiece on the Trailhunter and TRD Pro. Every model includes standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A wireless charging pad is optional, as is a JBL audio system. The latter even includes a Bluetooth speaker that can be detached from the top of the dashboard. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features Every Tacoma Hybrid has a host of standard driver-assistance technology, which includes automatic high-beam headlamps. While they cost extra, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are also available. For more information about the Tacoma's crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include: Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist Standard adaptive cruise control Warranty and Maintenance Coverage The Tacoma Hybrid's warranty coverage aligns with most rivals, and Toyota offers the best complimentary scheduled maintenance plan in the class. Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles Hybrid components are covered for ten years or 150,000 miles Complimentary scheduled maintenance is covered for two years or 25,000 miles Specifications Specifications 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road Hybrid Vehicle Type: front-engine, front-motor, rear/4-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door pickup PRICE Base/As Tested: $48,095/$57,865 POWERTRAIN turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, 278 hp, 317 lb-ft + AC motor, 48 hp, 184 lb-ft (combined output: 326 hp, 465 lb-ft; 0.9-kWh [C/D est] nickel-metal hydride battery pack) Transmission: 8-speed automatic CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: control arms/live axle Brakes, F/R: 13.4-in vented disc/13.2-in vented disc Tires: Falken Wildpeak A/T AT3WA 265/70R-18 116T M+S DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 131.9 in Length: 213.0 in Width: 76.9 in Height: 74.6 in Passenger Volume, F/R: 54/43 ft3 Curb Weight: 5155 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 7.6 sec 1/4-Mile: 15.9 sec @ 88 mph 100 mph: 22.0 sec Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 7.6 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 4.1 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 5.6 sec Top Speed (gov ltd): 111 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 191 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.73 g C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 20 mpg EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 23/22/24 mpg - - - 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Hybrid Vehicle Type: front-engine, front-motor, rear/4-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door pickup PRICE Base/As Tested: $65,395/$65,869 POWERTRAIN turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, 278 hp, 317 lb-ft + AC motor, 48 hp, 184 lb-ft (combined output: 326 hp, 465 lb-ft; 0.9-kWh [C/D est] nickel-metal hydride battery pack) Transmission: 8-speed automatic CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: control arms/live axle Brakes, F/R: 13.4-in vented disc/13.2-in vented disc Tires: Goodyear Wrangler Territory RT 265/70R-18 116T M+S DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 131.9 in Length: 213.0 in Width: 79.9 in Height: 75.8 in Passenger Volume, F/R: 54/43 ft3 Curb Weight: 5403 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 7.7 sec 1/4-Mile: 16.1 sec @ 87 mph 100 mph: 23.0 sec Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 8.0 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 3.7 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 5.1 sec Top Speed (gov ltd): 112 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 194 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.72 g C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 14 mpg EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 23/22/24 mpg C/D TESTING EXPLAINED More Features and Specs
Car and Driver
20-05-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid Review, Pricing, and Specs
Overview The Toyota 4Runner isn't exactly known for being a cutting-edge vehicle, but it has staying power thanks to its strengths as both a formidable off-road machine and a comfortable mid-size family hauler. The 4Runner Hybrid preserves those traits and adds a modern twist by sandwiching an electric motor between its engine and transmission. With the electric assistance, the 4Runner Hybrid makes 326 horsepower, a 48-hp increase over the standard gasoline 4Runner. With its capable hybrid powertrain, fresh cabin design, and laundry list of off-road aids, the 4Runner Hybrid is contemporary without sacrificing any of the traits that have made Toyota's signature mid-size SUV an icon. What's New for 2026? Building on the tradition of creating exclusive color options for TRD-Pro models, Toyota now offers a new WaveMaker blue exterior paint option for the 2026 4Runner Hybrid TRD-Pro. It's a shouty, Miami-reminiscent color that looks like it could've been sampled directly from a 90s Yamaha WaveRunner jet ski. While WaveMaker is only available on the TRD Pro for 2026, it will likely be available on other models for the following model year, as has been the case for Toyota's other TRD Pro hues. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Toyota 4Runner Hybrid is expected to start around $54,000 and go up to $69,000 depending on the trim and options. TRD Off-Road $54,000 (est) TRD Off-Road Premium $60,000 (est) Limited $62,000 (est) Platinum $66,000 (est) TRD Pro $69,000 (est) Trailhunter $69,000 (est) 0 $25k $50k $75k $100k $125k The 4Runner Hybrid is available in six trim levels, starting with the TRD Off-Road and culminating with the top-spec Trailhunter and TRD Pro trims. Those models are the most capable of the bunch, as they come decked out with almost every off-road item Toyota has in its arsenal. Still, we prefer the more affordable TRD Off-Road, which might not have all the same goodies as its pricier siblings, but it's still plenty capable. Engine, Transmission, and Performance The 4Runner Hybrid's powertrain combines a turbocharged 278-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with a 48-horsepower electric motor for a total output of 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. The electric motor is integrated into an eight-speed transmission and relies on a 1.87-kWh battery pack for juice. Toyota notes the hybrid powertrain represents the most power ever in a 4Runner. When we drove the 4Runner Hybrid, we found that the hybrid powertrain is responsive off the line but runs out of steam at higher speeds. The hybrid version is heavier than the base nonhybrid model, but the TRD Pro and Trailhunter versions are still plenty of fun off-road, with a composed chassis and quick steering. 0–60-MPH Times The 4Runner Hybrid Trailhunter we tested got to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds. That's significantly quicker than the old V-6 model, but we don't yet know how it compares to the new nonhybrid model. View Exterior Photos Greg Pajo | Car and Driver Towing and Payload Capacity The maximum towing capacity of the Toyota 4Runner hybrid is 6000 pounds. That's the same as the nonhybrid 4Runner, 1500 pounds more than the current Ford Bronco, and 1000 more than the Jeep Wrangler's maximum in Rubicon four-door trim. Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG The EPA hasn't yet rated the 2026 4Runner Hybrid's fuel economy yet, but last year's model earned ratings of 23 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined regardless of trim level. Since the 2026 model carries over unchanged from last year, the newest model should receive similar, or identical, ratings as the 2025 model. Once we test the 4Runner Hybrid on our real-world 75-mph highway fuel economy test, we'll update this section with results. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo The 4Runner's interior doesn't stray far from the corporate playbook, sharing styling, materials, and switchgear with the Tacoma pickup. The dashboard and infotainment setup are crafted from the same stock, and, along with the seating and functional hardware like door pulls and seat adjusters, retain a purposeful, utilitarian layout. Though the nonhybrid 4Runner has an available third-row seat, the hybrid version lacks that option, as the battery pack resides under the cargo floor and complicates packaging. Of course, the 4Runner can't match the true roof- and doorless experience of the Bronco and Wrangler, but the roll-down rear window and available sunroof let in enough of the outdoors to put a smile on your face. View Interior Photos Greg Pajo | Car and Driver Infotainment and Connectivity A standard 8.0-inch infotainment display runs Toyota's latest software, which in our hands, has proven to be speedy and intuitive. A larger, 14.0-inch display is optional, as is a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. All models come with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, USB-C ports, and a digital key system that lets you lock, unlock, and start the 4Runner via a smartphone app. A wireless smartphone charging pad is optional. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features Toyota equips every 4Runner with a suite of driver-assistance features it calls TSS 3.0. This bundle of systems includes basics such as automated emergency braking and lane-departure warning, as well as more advanced offerings such as adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature and a system that can detect if the driver is nonresponsive and bring the 4Runner to a stop if needed. For more information about the 4Runner's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include: Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist Standard adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature Warranty and Maintenance Coverage Toyota provides two years of complimentary scheduled maintenance, a rarity in this class. The coverage in other categories is less impressive but matches industry norms. Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles Hybrid components are covered for ten years or 150,000 miles Complimentary scheduled maintenance is covered for two years or 25,000 miles Specifications Specifications 2025 Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter Vehicle Type: front-engine, front-motor, rear/4-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door pickup PRICE Base/As Tested: $68,350/$68,350 POWERTRAIN turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve 2.4-liter inline-4, 275 hp, 317 lb-ft + AC motor, 48 hp, 184 lb-ft (combined output: 323 hp, 465 lb-ft; 0.9-kWh nickel-metal hydride battery pack) Transmission: 8-speed automatic CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: control arms/live axle Brakes, F/R: 13.4-in vented disc/13.2-in vented disc Tires: Toyo Open Country A/T III 265/70R-18 116H 3PMSF DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 112.2 in Length: 194.9 in Width: 79.9 in Height: 74.0 in Passenger Volume, F/R: 56/44 ft3 Cargo Volume, Behind F/R: 83/43 ft3 Curb Weight: 5441 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 6.7 sec 1/4-Mile: 15.3 sec @ 88 mph 100 mph: 21.1 sec Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 7.4 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 4.1 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 4.8 sec Top Speed (gov ltd): 112 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 178 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.74 g C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 17 mpg EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 23/23/24 mpg C/D TESTING EXPLAINED More Features and Specs
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
2026 Toyota TRD Pro Models Add a Splash of Color
Toyota TRD Pro models are getting a new, special shade of blue dubbed Wave Maker for 2026. This new finish is available on TRD Pro 4Runner and Sequoia SUVs and Tacoma and Tundra pickups. This is the eleventh TRD Pro special color to join the company's color wheel since 2015. If you're tired of muted silvers covering your car, Toyota has an answer. Well, at least in its top-tier TRD Pro versions you'll be able to snag the new 'Wave Maker' finish. This new shade is the 11th addition to the special list of TRD paints and is scheduled to hit 4Runner, Tacoma, Tundra, and Sequoia models this fall. Toyota says this finish was developed by Toyota's CALTY design team. This is the same group responsible for other TRD Pro exclusive colors like the more muted mud bath finish for 2025 models, and the terra finish from 2024. Now, this new paint is obviously limited to just a handful of trim models in an already limited portfolio. That means you're out of luck if you want a more price-friendly version of Toyota's latest body-on-frame machines in this new color. However, if you look at the trend of these limited colors, you might be in luck down the line as the colors move down the trim walk. If you do plan on adding a new TRD Pro 4Runner, Tacoma, Tundra, or Sequoia finished in wave maker, you'll have to wait until the 2026 model year comes around this fall. Toyota hasn't yet released pricing for the '26 model TRD Pros, but stickers should be close to the current $65,230 price admission into a Tacoma TRD Pro, which is the most affordable TRD Pro variant currently sold. Do you think there should be more vibrant colors like this on cars? Tell us your thoughts below.
Car and Driver
16-05-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro Looks Like Taffy with WaveMaker Paint
Toyota's new WaveMaker paint color is only available on its TRD Pro lineup (for now). For 2026, the special blue hue is optional on the 4Runner Hybrid, Tacoma Hybrid, Tundra Hybrid, and Sequoia. Last year, Toyota introduced the sandy Mudbath shade, and before that was an orangish Terra color—both no-cost options. When you buy one of Toyota's TRD Pro models, you don't just get access to the automaker's best off-road equipment, you also get the chance to choose a paint color not found on the normal stuff. For 2026, Toyota introduces WaveMaker, a special blue hue that wouldn't be out of place in a package of salt-water taffy. New Blue TRD Pros Like the previous TRD Pro-only paint colors, WaveMaker was created by Toyota's CALTY design studio. These vibrant colors definitely help boost curb appeal. For those who need to be reminded what models offer a TRD Pro trim, it's the 4Runner, Tacoma, Tundra, and Sequoia. Except for the latter, all of those models feature the mightier hybrid powertrain. Toyota WaveMaker represents 11th special paint color that Toyota has developed for its TRD Pro lineup. It started back in 2015 with Inferno, which the company hinted could someday come out of retirement. Last year, Mudbath—a sand-esque hue—was on the menu. Before that, Toyota offered Terra (see: burnt orange) for 2024, which followed Solar Octane (2023)—a name that begs the question: What would happen if you poured gasoline on the sun? While these annual paint releases are reserved for TRD Pro models, they trickle down to the mainstream models the following year. So, for example, you can expect to get a WaveMaker-painted Tacoma TRD Off-Road for the truck's 2027 model year. Toyota Toyota hasn't yet announced pricing or other details about the 2026 TRD Pro models, but the automaker says they will start reaching dealers sometime this fall. Eric Stafford Managing Editor, News Eric Stafford's automobile addiction began before he could walk, and it has fueled his passion to write news, reviews, and more for Car and Driver since 2016. His aspiration growing up was to become a millionaire with a Jay Leno–like car collection. Apparently, getting rich is harder than social-media influencers make it seem, so he avoided financial success entirely to become an automotive journalist and drive new cars for a living. After earning a journalism degree at Central Michigan University and working at a daily newspaper, the years of basically burning money on failed project cars and lemon-flavored jalopies finally paid off when Car and Driver hired him. His garage currently includes a 2010 Acura RDX, a manual '97 Chevy Camaro Z/28, and a '90 Honda CRX Si. Read full bio
