The 2025 Toyota Tacoma is here, and it’s not playing it safe. Gone is the old, reliable-but-dull truck—this new generation is bolder, more powerful, and packed with tech. But is it still the king of midsize pickups, or has Toyota tried too hard to keep up with the Ford Ranger Raptor and Chevy Colorado ZR2? Let’s find out.

What’s New for 2025?

1. Looks Like a Tonka Truck (In a Good Way)

• Aggressive new styling—sharp lines, a bigger grille, and LED lights standard across all trims.
• Available TRD Pro with a factory lift (up to 3 inches) and FOX shocks for serious off-roaders.
• Two new colors: Terra Orange (for attention seekers) and Underground Gray (for the low-key crowd).

1. Interior: Finally Feels Modern

• New 14-inch touchscreen (yes, really) with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
• Digital gauge cluster (about time, Toyota).
• Heated/ventilated seats (even on the TRD Off-Road trim).
• Tactile buttons! (No more digging through touchscreen menus for climate controls).

1. Powertrains: Turbocharged and Ready to Go

• 2.4L Turbo-4 (278 HP, 317 lb-ft): The new base engine, replacing the ancient V6.
• Hybrid i-Force Max (326 HP, 465 lb-ft): The one to get if you want extra torque for towing.
• 6-speed manual still available (for the purists, but only on certain trims).

1. Off-Road Upgrades (Because Dirt Matters)

• Multi-Terrain Select & Crawl Control (standard on TRD models).
• Locking rear diff (for when things get gnarly).
• Trailhunter trim—built for overlanding with a factory roof rack and skid plates. What Still Sucks?
• Hybrid isn’t as efficient as you’d hope (only 22 MPG combined).
• Ride is still stiff (it’s a truck, but rivals like the Honda Ridgeline are comfier).
• Pricey top trims (a loaded TRD Pro can hit $60K).
• No diesel option (unlike the Chevy Colorado). Should You Buy It?

✅ If you want the most capable midsize truck (especially off-road).
✅ If you plan to keep it forever (Toyota reliability is legendary).
✅ If you love tech but still want a manual transmission (rare combo).
❌ If you prioritize comfort—the Ridgeline is way plusher.
❌ If you’re on a budget—base models start at $32,000, but options add up fast.

Verdict: 9/10
The 2025 Tacoma is the most exciting midsize truck Toyota’s ever made. It’s tough, techy, and finally fun to drive—just don’t expect it to be cheap.

Your Turn: Would you take the new Tacoma over a Ford Ranger Raptor? Or is the hybrid’s fuel economy a dealbreaker? Sound off below! 🚛💨