When the 2018 Toyota Tacoma Diesel hits dealerships it will be as a refresh of the outgoing model, offering an update to the powertrain in the form of a diesel unit, while retaining all the capabilities the model has been known for. Meaning, it will be a muscular, reasonably cheap and eco-friendly pickup truck with a sturdy frame that can take in stride just about any terrain.

Exterior and Interior

The 2018 Toyota Tacoma Diesel will be offered in a variety of body styles, from compact to mid-size, making it one of the most versatile trucks on the road. At its core, it is a mid-size pickup with an Access Cab (an extended cab with small rear-hinged doors) that comes with a standard 6-foot, 1-inch bed.

Depending on the trim, Tacoma features 2-wheel (rear drive) and 4-wheel drive, with each trim offering uniquely chosen features. The base trim, which is 2-wheel drive sitting on 15-inch wheels, has a limited-slip rear differential, power locks and windows, air-conditioning, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth connectivity and a touch-screen infotainment.

There is also an off-road trim available sitting on rugged 16/17-inch alloy wheels equipped with superior suspension and anti-lock brakes, along with shock absorbers and a power outlet in the bed (if you aim at impressing your camping buddies).

As to the interior, the previous Tacoma has experienced some issues regarding the low set front seats, which felt somewhat uncomfortable, as well as extensive use of plastic on the dashboard and door panels, which made the car look a bit cheap.

Hopefully in the 2018 Toyota Tacoma Diesel these issues will be addressed with a roomier space at the front and leather covered seats, dashboard and the steering wheel.

Powertrain

The standard Tacoma comes in two engine models, 2.7-liter four-cylinder or a 4.0-liter V6, with a rear or four-wheel drive. Apparently, the new Toyota Tacoma will utilize the Cummins 5.0-liter turbo diesel V8 engine, which can deliver up to 300 horsepower and 560 pound-feet of torque.

Opting for a diesel engine in its flagship truck, Toyota clearly expects to improve fuel efficiency making the 2018 Toyota Tacoma Diesel really a cheap vehicle to have with a tempting 30 mpg combined on tap.

2018 Toyota Tacoma Diesel Release Date and Price

The release date for the 2018 Toyota Tacoma Diesel has not been set as yet but the model will likely arrive at car shows in the fall 2017, and at dealerships sometime early 2016. The pricing will begin from roughly $27,000 for the base trim and climb steeply from there.