Posted by Mark Williams | December 10, 2014

Toyota is betting that the midsize truck segment is likely to grow as new models enter the market and they've decided now is the time to update their Tacoma entry (teaser photo above). Additionally, by expanding its Baja, Mexico, plant from running two shifts to three shifts, Toyota will be opening up supply for dealers who have wanted to sell more Tacomas for quite a while.

According to Automotive News, the next-generation Tacoma will debut during press days at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit the second week of January. Some have speculated that the Tacoma introduction was moved forward to combat all the attention the all-new Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon are getting, the former receiving the 2015 Motor Trend Truck of the Year award.

Although there is very little we know about the new midsize, we're guessing Toyota will take a conservative approach (a similar strategy to what the 2014 Tundra executed), making minor interior and exterior styling changes with the possibility of a new powertrain or two. It remains to be seen whether the new Tacoma frame will come closer in line with the global Hilux pickup.

Manufacturer's image above; KGP Photography image below