2021 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid vs Diesel

Toyota killed the hopes of the Tundra diesel truck. Instead, the company will deliver the new petrol unit for the full-size pickup. However, we don’t hear a denial for the mid-size segment. Tacoma fans still hope a diesel could join the lineup. Well, the new unit is on the way, but the latest rumors could disappoint you. Instead of a diesel, the company will go after the 2021 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid.

The move is not so shocking. If any other company did it, we would pay more attention to details. On the other hand, Toyota is a leader in the hybrid segment, with many cars and SUVs already using such technology. In some segments, they deliver the exclusive drivetrains, such as a 35 mpg system for the mid-size three-row Highlander. The next steps are obvious – truck and a full-size SUV segment.

2021 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid

2021 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid Specs

Under the hood of the standard truck is a V6 engine. Toyota already hybridized a 3.5-liter displacement and enhanced outputs. For the previous version of Highlander, this system was able to deliver 308 horsepower. It seems like the configuration that can serve the needs of demanding truckers. Whatsoever, hybrids are not well-known for the towing capacity, which could be the stumbling block. Another good thing about this setup is the improved fuel economy. Still, if a truck cannot tow, fans can forget about it.

That is the main reason why we believe the 2021 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid is not getting the latest technology from the company’s engineering cuisine. A 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine cuts the power outputs but enhances the fuel economy. It would be nice to see a pickup returning more than 30 mpg combined. However, if it can’t tow at least 5,000 pounds, truckers will look for more capable vehicles.

2021 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid

Hybrid over Diesel

If any company can overcome such problems, that is Toyota. The Japanese company is closing the gap between totally different classes and segments. Land Cruiser is a great utility SUV with luxury elements. So, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid might combine the best elements from electrified drivetrain (clean energy) and truck class (towing capacity). Diesel engines can improve potential and fuel economy. However, these kinds of powerplants are emitting too many gasses. That is why the Japanese carmaker is probably not going to offer such units in the US. On the other hand, rivals are taking advantage, with Chevy Silverado and Jeep Gladiator being available with diesel units.

2021 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid specs
Current V6 petrol engine

When Will 2021 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid Be Available?

The release date of the 2021 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid depends on many things. We need an official source to confirm the development of the truck, or to see test mules on streets. Either way, the pickup is not going to be available before the next season, when it can come as the concept vehicle first. On the other hand, Toyota might adapt an existing configuration to test the market. For the Lexus RX450h, the towing capacity is 3,500 pounds. This is a good starter, especially having in mind the savings through the improved gas mileage.

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