The fourth-generation Toyota Tacoma made history last year by becoming the first midsize pickup to win the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) Truck of Texas award. This year, the model has outdone itself, once again securing the TAWA Truck of Texas award at the 32nd annual Texas Truck Rodeo.

Debuting in spring 2023, the fourth-generation Tacoma introduced two new powertrains. One is the i-FORCE MAX hybrid system, delivering up to 326 horsepower and a substantial 630 N·m of torque. That represents a 75% increase over the previous generation's V-6 engine.

Available in 11 unique configurations, the Tacoma caters to a wide range of lifestyles and customer needs. The Baja-inspired TRD Pro, for example, is the first in its segment to feature an IsoDynamic Performance seat, enhancing control and comfort during off-road driving. Meanwhile, the Trailhunter is a purpose-built off-road machine, developed from the ground up with the latest integrated off-road equipment from ARB, Old Man Emu, and RIGID.

The annual TAWA Texas Truck Rodeo brings journalists together to evaluate the latest pickups and SUVs from manufacturers, both off-road and in urban settings. Vehicles from leading global automakers are judged on criteria including interior, exterior, value, performance, and overall appeal.