Younger car enthusiasts might not remember the popularity of street trucks in the 1990s and early 2000s. These modified pickups were known for their ground-scraping suspension, big wheels, and eye-catching custom paint schemes. Toyota is bringing back this trend with the introduction of the 2024 Tacoma X-Runner Concept at the upcoming 2023 SEMA Show.
While Toyota already offers rugged versions of the 2024 Tacoma, such as the Trailhunter and TRD Pro trims, the company’s R&D and design teams decided to take a different approach with this year’s SEMA build. The Tacoma X-Runner Concept aims to gauge consumer interest in reviving a sporty pickup truck.
According to Adam Rabinowitz, chief designer at Toyota’s Calty Design Research, “There were lots of street trucks in the early 2000s and they all faded, so on the one hand, this was a curiosity check to see if there is any market for street trucks at all, or if the market has entirely shifted to what we see today—tough, rugged, lifted vehicles.”
The Tacoma X-Runner Concept showcases a suitably aggressive stance, achieved by widening the track by 3.0 inches. The team also adapted the air suspension system from a Tundra, allowing the truck to hunker down over its impressive 21-inch carbon-fiber wheels. Additionally, the concept comes equipped with 2.5-inch Bilstein shocks featuring remote reservoirs.
One of the most exciting upgrades in the X-Runner Concept is its powertrain. Instead of the stock engine, this concept receives a twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6 that generates a remarkable 421 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. To handle the extra muscle, Toyota outfitted the X-Runner Concept with the rear axle from a Tundra, complete with an electronic-locking differential.
In terms of aesthetics, the Tacoma X-Runner Concept features a predominantly Speedway Blue body, notably distinguished by its trapezoidal front fascia with large openings and a center light bar. The satin black hood includes a functional scoop with red accents, while a rectangular side-exit exhaust adds to the truck’s aggressive appearance. A hard tonneau cover conceals the bed, and the rear is adorned with smoked taillight lenses and a bumper featuring a simulated diffuser at the bottom.
Inside the cabin, the X-Runner Concept boasts vibrant red seats with the X-Runner emblem embellished on the headrests. Paddle shifters are conveniently located behind the steering wheel, adding to the sporty feel.
For those unfamiliar with the Tacoma X-Runner, the original model was available from 2005 to 2014. It offered buyers a factory-built street truck that came with a lowered suspension, sporty body kit, and a hood scoop. The 4.0-liter V6 engine produced 236 horsepower and was paired with a six-speed manual transmission powering the rear wheels, with a standard limited-slip differential. TRD even offered a supercharger as a dealer add-on for buyers looking to boost the engine output to 300 horsepower.
The Tacoma X-Runner Concept pays homage to its predecessor while also introducing modern updates and performance enhancements. Toyota’s decision to revive this street truck concept reflects the brand’s commitment to exploring new possibilities and catering to a diverse range of car enthusiasts.
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FAQs
Q: Will the Tacoma X-Runner Concept be available for sale?
A: As of now, the Tacoma X-Runner Concept is a showcase vehicle for the 2023 SEMA Show. Toyota will evaluate consumer interest and feedback to determine potential production possibilities.
Q: What makes the Tacoma X-Runner Concept different from other Tacoma trims?
A: The Tacoma X-Runner Concept focuses on offering a sporty and aggressive aesthetic, with performance upgrades such as a widened track, air suspension, and a powerful twin-turbo V6 engine.
Q: Are there any plans for a production version of the Tacoma X-Runner Concept?
A: Toyota has not officially announced plans for a production version of the Tacoma X-Runner Concept. However, the positive response from car enthusiasts could potentially influence the brand’s future decisions.
Conclusion
The Toyota Tacoma X-Runner Concept brings back the spirit of street trucks from the 1990s and early 2000s, delivering a captivating blend of style and performance. With its widened track, aggressive stance, and powerful twin-turbo V6 engine, this concept truck aims to gauge consumer interest in the revival of sporty pickups. Toyota continues to push boundaries and explore new possibilities, catering to the diverse interests of car enthusiasts. Stay tuned for more updates on the Tacoma X-Runner Concept and other exciting developments in the world of cars.