Toyota Tacoma Named Truck of Texas

Rhea-AI Summary

Toyota's (NYSE:TM) fourth-generation Tacoma has been named Truck of Texas by the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA), marking the first time a midsize pickup has won this prestigious award. This achievement follows Toyota's success with the Tundra winning in 2022 and 2024.

The new Tacoma features two new powertrains, including the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain delivering up to 326 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque, representing a 75% torque increase from the previous V-6 model. The vehicle offers 11 unique grades and includes innovative features like the segment-first IsoDynamic Performance Seat in the TRD Pro model.

The Tacoma was designed in California, engineered in Ann Arbor, and is assembled for North America. The vehicle also received additional awards including Midsize Truck of Texas, while Toyota's Wireless Trailer Camera and Safety Sense 3.0 won technical awards.

Positive

• First midsize pickup to win prestigious Truck of Texas award
• 75% torque increase in new hybrid powertrain compared to previous generation
• Significant powertrain improvement with 326 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque
• Market leadership as most popular midsize pickup for 20 consecutive years

Negative

• None.

News Market Reaction – TM

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In the trading session that priced this news, TM gained 0.91%, reflecting a mild positive market reaction.

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Tacoma is the first Midsize Pickup Truck to Win the Top Honor at the Texas Auto Writers Association Annual Truck Rodeo

PLANO, Texas, Jan. 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The all-new, fourth-generation Toyota Tacoma was awarded the title Truck of Texas by the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) at their 31^st annual Texas Truck Rodeo event. It is the first time a midsize pickup truck has earned Truck of Texas. This marks the third time in four years a Toyota pickup has taken the top award at the Truck Rodeo, with the full-size Tundra earning the honors in 2022 and 2024.

TAWA awarded the all-new Lexus GX 550 the other top award at the Truck Rodeo: SUV of Texas. It also voted on category and technical awards at the media drive event. Tacoma earned Midsize Truck of Texas, while the GX 550 is Midsize SUV of Texas. Toyota's Wireless Trailer Camera received the Best Towing Technology award, and the Best Driver Assist or Safety Feature went to Toyota's Safety Sense 3.0.

"After being the most popular midsize pickup in the U.S. the last 20 years in a row, it's great to see the all-new Tacoma be presented Truck of Texas," said Dedra DeLilli, Toyota vice president - Vehicle Marketing and Communications. "We are honored that TAWA recognized the Tacoma as the first Truck of Texas from a segment other than full-size pickup."

The new generation Tacoma debuted in the spring of 2023 with two new powertrains, including the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, with a total system output of up to 326 horsepower and a whopping 465 lb.-ft. of torque, a 75 percent increase in torque compared to the previous generation V-6 powered truck. Designed by Calty Design Research in California, engineered by TMNA R&D in Ann Arbor, and assembled for North America, Tacoma offers 11 unique grades to fit various lifestyles and customer needs. The new Trailhunter grade builds upon Toyota's legendary off-road and overlanding credibility with purpose-built engineering and robust components.

The Baja-inspired TRD Pro debuted the segment-first IsoDynamic Performance Seat for enhanced off-road driving control and comfort, while the first-ever Trailhunter grade is a factory-developed overlanding rig built from the ground up with the latest integrated off-road equipment from ARB, Old Man Emu, and RIGID.

TAWA's annual Texas Truck Rodeo brings together journalists to evaluate automakers' latest trucks and SUVs on an off-road course and a street drive. The fall event was held at Eagles Canyon Raceway in Decatur, Texas. Vehicles from the world's top manufacturers were evaluated on interior, exterior, value, performance, and personal appeal.

"The Truck of Texas award is prestigious and competitive, and the Tacoma has truly earned the title," said TAWA President Cory Fourniquet. "The Tacoma impressed our members with its diverse grades and new powertrains."

TAWA is a Texas-based nonprofit association for automotive journalists promoting professionalism and quality in journalism for more than two decades. TAWA has grown to become one of the most influential and recognized automotive journalist associates in the U.S. The group 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.

For more information on the Toyota Tacoma, visit the Toyota Newsroom.

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for nearly 70 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships.

Toyota directly employs nearly 48,000 people in the U.S. who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of more than 35 million cars and trucks at our 11 manufacturing plants. In spring 2025, Toyota's plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 31 electrified options.

Through its Driving Possibilities initiative, the Toyota USA Foundation has committed to creating innovative educational programs within, and in partnership with, historically underserved communities near the company's U.S. operating sites.

For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.

Media Contact:
Greg Thome
Toyota Motor North America
469.292.2321
greg.thome@toyota.com

 

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SOURCE Toyota Motor North America

FAQ

What major award did Toyota (TM) Tacoma win in Texas for 2025?

The Toyota Tacoma won the prestigious Truck of Texas award at the 31st annual Texas Auto Writers Association Truck Rodeo, becoming the first midsize pickup truck to receive this honor.

How much more torque does the 2025 Toyota (TM) Tacoma i-FORCE MAX hybrid have compared to the previous generation?

The new Tacoma i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain delivers 465 lb.-ft. of torque, representing a 75% increase compared to the previous generation V-6 powered truck.

How many different grades does the 2025 Toyota (TM) Tacoma offer?

The new generation Toyota Tacoma offers 11 unique grades to accommodate various lifestyles and customer needs.

What unique feature does the 2025 Toyota (TM) Tacoma TRD Pro introduce to the segment?

The TRD Pro model introduces the segment-first IsoDynamic Performance Seat, designed for enhanced off-road driving control and comfort.

How long has the Toyota (TM) Tacoma been the most popular midsize pickup in the US?

The Toyota Tacoma has been the most popular midsize pickup truck in the United States for 20 consecutive years.