Toyota Tacoma Pickup Gets New Engine, New Look

Toyota Motor Corp.'s revamped 2016 midsize Tacoma pickup will sport power upgrades, a stronger frame and a fresh interior and exterior.

The truck, which made its global debut this week at the Detroit auto show, will go on sale in about nine months.

2016 Toyota Tacoma pickup truck

The new Tacoma will swap its 4.0-liter V-6 for a 3.5-liter unit that outpowers the 236-hp engine it replaces. The powerplant is equipped with a fuel system that combines port injection for better slow-speed operation and direct injection for improved combustion efficiency. The new V-6 operates in an Atkinson cycle mode, which uses variable cam phasing to keep the intake valve open longer.

The Tacoma's standard 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine carries over from the prior truck. But Toyota says it has tweaked the unit for an undisclosed improvement in power.

The truck adds a "crawl" feature for low-speed travel over rough terrain.

The redesigned pickup uses more high-strength steel to reduce weight and stiffen the frame. Body panels are hot-stamped steel, a process that improves stiffness. Toyota says it added soundproofing and improved the ride.

Exterior styling cues include a more massive grill and a locking tailgate with built-in spoiler.