2020 Toyota Tacoma squares up to battle Ford Ranger - Driving

Toyota has given its Tacoma some upgrades for 2020 to make it more competitive with rivals like the brand-new Ford Ranger and Jeep Gladiator.

On the outside, the Tacoma hasn't changed much: a redesigned grill differentiates 2020 models from 2019s. The daytime running lights, fog lights, headlights and bed lamp have all been changed to LED, and the taillights have been redesigned with chrome or black inserts.

Inside the Tacoma are the more important changes. Immediately noticeable is the revised seatback fabric on the new 10-way power adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support. Upgraded infotainment now includes Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa connectivity. SR5-and-up trims will get 8-inch screens over the standard 7-inch.

For the top-of-the-line TRD Pro Tacoma, things get kicked up another notch with new 16-inch wheels fitted in dark satin black; sequential LED/DRL headlights; taillights with black inserts; Panoramic View Monitor; and Multi-Terrain Monitor, which both allow the driver to see the trail using cameras. The springs and shocks have also been tuned.

Engine options for the Tacoma have not changed, meaning it's still available with either a 2.7-litre four-cylinder with 159 horsepower and 180 lb.-ft. of torque; or an available 3.5-litre V6 with 278 horsepower and 265 lb.-ft. of torque, with either a six-speed automatic or six-speed manual for the V6.

Only time will tell whether or not these small changes will add up to more sales against the impending Ford Ranger.

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via Technology - Latest - Google News http://bit.ly/2DYHbIU