Toyota has revealed all-new special editions, new colors, and other enhancements across the entire 2021 Tacoma lineup. Inspired by Toyota’s tradition of producing legendary desert racing trucks, the Nightshade and Trail Special Editions are arguably the best-looking in the 2021 lineup. The best-performing version of the third-generation Tacoma remains the mighty TRD Pro.
What You Can Expect From The 2021 Toyota Tacoma
Toyota debuted the latest additions and enhancements to the endlessly configurable Toyota Tacoma lineup early in the year at the Chicago Auto Show and finally released pricing. The 2021 Tacoma lineup includes 35 different configurations, updated styling, and an upgraded interior. Pricing ranges from $26,150 all the way up to $46,780. In 2021 there really will be a “Taco” to suit just about anyone.
What Will The 2021 Toyota Tacoma Look Like
Available in 33 different configurations, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma offers more standard equipment across the entire lineup. You’ll see things like dual-zone auto AC on all V6 models, upgraded audio, and a first-aid kit equipped on SR5 models and higher.
Every 2021 Tacoma will continue to come standard with Toyota Safety Sense. This includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, High-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Departure Alert, and Automatic High Beams.
Toyota also debuted a new color pallet, Lunar Rock, a chilling grey/green that is exclusively available on the Tacoma TRD Pro model.
Go Dark with the 2021 Toyota Tacoma Nightshade Special Edition
The announcements that really made us do a double-take are the new Tacoma Nightshade and Trail special editions. They are destined to hit dealerships just in time for the new year. Toyota introduced the Nightshade line of special-edition cars in 2018, equipped with black leather-trim seating and blacked-out exterior accents to give the vehicles an aggressive if not sinister look.
While most Toyota Nightshade models are based on SE grade versions, the 2021 Nightshade Tacoma is built on the more luxurious Limited grade model. It will have dark smoke 18-inch alloy wheels, black exhaust tips, black fog light bezels, and a new darkened-chrome grille insert design. The 2021 Nightshade Tacoma also offers drivers the option of 2WD or 4WD and looks particularly sinister in the available Midnight Black Metallic, Magnetic Gray Metallic, or Windchill Pearl color pallets.
Gear Up for Adventure with the 2021 Toyota Tacoma Trail Special Edition
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma Trail Special Edition debuted alongside the Nightshade Tacoma at the Chicago Auto Show and immediately stood out from its counterpart. Though it also has black exterior badging and black seating, the 2021 Tacoma Trail Special Edition looks more authentic than sinister.
The new set up is designed to appeal to all kinds of outdoors-people. It packs in standard all-weather floor mats, a 120-volt power outlet in the bed, and lockable bed storage with drains to help at the cabin or campsite. The coolest addition is the insulated driver’s-side bed storage, so you can keep food, drinks, and bait nice and cool.
2021 Toyota Tacoma Special Editions: Nightshade vs. Trail vs. TRD Pro
If you’re on the fence as to which 2021 Toyota Tacoma special edition is the best choice, then you should ask yourself what you really want out of your truck. The Nightshade Tacoma is a fierce-looking machine, with a leather interior and a real nightrider feel to it. You can get it in 2- and 4-wheel drive, but the 4×4 version will cost you $42,980. The Tacoma Trail Special Edition 4×4, on the other hand, won’t cost you as much ($37,080). It isn’t as luxurious, but comes with lots of practical features. The 2021 TRD Pro Tacoma will set you back at least a whopping $45,250. For that, you’ll get the option of the unique Lunar Rock color and all the luxury and off-road performance on offer. Which 2021 Toyota Tacoma is right for you?
2021 Toyota Tacoma Pricing
Between the 4×2 SR Access Cab ($26,150) and the 4×4 TRD Pro Double Cab ($46,780), there are thirty-three 2021 Toyota Tacoma configurations designed and priced for any budget or purpose. Keep in mind that 2021 base prices for the 6 main trim configurations add between $100 and $315, over 2020 pricing. This puts the MSRPs for the standard models and special editions (including a $1,175 destination fee) at:
- SR Access Cab 4×2 $27,325 (+$100)
- SR5 Access Cab 4×2 $29,115 (+$115)
- Trail Special Edition 4×2 $35,180
- TRD Sport Access Cab 4×2 $34,245 (+$285)
- TRD Off-Road Double Cab 4×2 $34,315 (+$315)
- TRD Limited Double Cab 4×2 $40,080 (+$125)
- Nightshade Edition 4×2 $41,080
- TRD Pro Double Cab 4×4 $45,250 (+$115)
As for what you get for the price of a new 2021 Toyota Tacoma, there is a large delta between the cheapest version and the most expensive. For example, the base 2021 Tacoma SR model available for $27,325. That gets you two-wheel-drive, cloth seats, steel wheels, and other basics. The 2021 Tacoma Nightshade and Trail editions, on the other hand, are limited to less than 7,000 units each. They come with a whole host of additional features, like Dark Gray 18-inch TRD Off-Road wheels and upgraded all-terrain tires.
What Makes the Toyota Tacoma So Popular?
Toyota loves to brag that the Tacoma is America’s best-selling mid-size pickup. Considering the big sales numbers and size of its cult-following, it’s hard to argue that claim. But what is it that makes the Tacoma so appealing?
If you ask this off-road enthusiast, it’s the Tacoma’s combination of off-road capability and its reputation for reliability. Even under the intense scrutiny of enthusiasts, the Tacoma holds up as a workhorse, off-road trailblazer, and sensible choice for families and small business owners. With prices starting at $26,050 for the base SR trim, and more than thirty configurations there is a 2021 Toyota Tacoma for everyone.
