PLANO, Texas (Jan. 29, 2025) – In a historic moment at the 31st annual Texas Truck Rodeo, the all-new, fourth-generation Toyota Tacoma has been named the Truck of Texas by the esteemed Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA). This prestigious accolade marks a significant milestone, as it’s the first time a midsize pickup truck has ever clinched the coveted Truck of Texas title. This victory further solidifies Toyota’s dominance in the pickup segment, marking the third time in just four years that a Toyota pickup has taken the top honor at this event. Previously, the full-size Tundra earned the same recognition in 2022 and 2024, showcasing Toyota’s consistent innovation and quality across its truck lineup.
The Texas Truck Rodeo, organized annually by TAWA, is a rigorous evaluation event where automotive journalists assess the latest trucks and SUVs from top manufacturers. The all-new Lexus GX 550 also received a top award this year, being named SUV of Texas. In addition to the top honors, TAWA also recognized vehicles in specific categories and for technical achievements. The Toyota Tacoma not only won the overall Truck of Texas award but was also named the Midsize Truck of Texas. Further highlighting Toyota’s engineering prowess, the brand’s Wireless Trailer Camera was awarded Best Towing Technology, and Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 received the Best Driver Assist or Safety Feature award.
“For two decades, the Tacoma has been the best-selling midsize pickup in the U.S., and now, being named Truck of Texas is a fantastic achievement for the all-new model,” stated Dedra DeLilli, Toyota vice president – Vehicle Marketing and Communications. “We are incredibly honored that TAWA has recognized the Tacoma as the first-ever Truck of Texas from the midsize pickup segment. This award is a testament to the dedication and innovation that went into developing this next-generation vehicle.”
The redesigned Toyota Tacoma, launched in the spring of 2023, introduces significant upgrades, including two new powertrain options. Notably, the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain delivers a remarkable total system output of up to 326 horsepower and an impressive 465 lb.-ft. of torque. This hybrid engine offers a substantial 75 percent increase in torque compared to the previous generation’s V-6 engine, providing enhanced performance and capability for truck enthusiasts. Designed by Calty Design Research in California and engineered by TMNA R&D in Ann Arbor, the Tacoma is specifically tailored for the North American market and assembled in North America. The 2025 Tacoma comes in an extensive range of 11 unique grades, catering to a wide spectrum of lifestyles and customer needs. Among these, the new Trailhunter grade stands out, building upon Toyota’s established off-road and overlanding legacy with specialized engineering and robust, purpose-built components designed for serious adventure.
For those seeking ultimate off-road performance, the Baja-inspired TRD Pro model debuts a segment-first IsoDynamic Performance Seat. This innovative seat technology enhances off-road driving control and significantly improves driver and passenger comfort in challenging terrains. The first-ever Tacoma Trailhunter grade is a factory-developed overlanding rig, meticulously built from the ground up with seamlessly integrated off-road equipment from renowned brands like ARB, Old Man Emu, and RIGID, making it ready for any overlanding expedition straight from the dealership.
The annual Texas Truck Rodeo, where the Tacoma earned its Truck of Texas title, took place at Eagles Canyon Raceway in Decatur, Texas. Automotive journalists participating in the event rigorously evaluated vehicles on both a demanding off-road course and a street driving route. The evaluations covered various critical aspects, including vehicle interior and exterior design, overall value, performance metrics, and subjective personal appeal.
“The Truck of Texas award is highly respected and fiercely contested, and the Toyota Tacoma has genuinely earned this prestigious title,” said TAWA President Cory Fourniquet. “Our members were particularly impressed by the Tacoma’s diverse model range and its advanced new powertrains. It represents a significant step forward in the midsize pickup truck segment.”
TAWA, the Texas Auto Writers Association, is a non-profit organization based in Texas, dedicated to promoting professionalism and journalistic excellence within the automotive industry for over two decades. It has grown into one of the most influential and recognized automotive journalist associations in the United States. TAWA hosts two major annual events, the Texas Auto Roundup and the Texas Truck Rodeo, providing journalists with a unique opportunity to experience and evaluate a wide array of vehicles from various manufacturers in a single location and timeframe.
For detailed information about the award-winning Toyota Tacoma Pickup Truck, please visit the Toyota Newsroom.
