Toyota Tacoma Named 2025 Truck of Texas

Under any other circumstances, Toyota might be concerned that the Tundra did not win the Texas Auto Writers Association’s (TAWA’s) coveted “Truck of Texas” award for 2025. But in this case, bad news is good news, because its smaller sibling took the title instead, beating out all other mid-size pickups to take home the award this year.  

“The Truck of Texas award is prestigious and competitive, and the Tacoma has truly earned the title,” said TAWA president Cory Fourniquet. “The Tacoma impressed our members with its diverse grades and new powertrains.” 

With the Tundra’s 2024 victory still fresh, the Tacoma’s win at the 31st annual Texas Truck Rodeo gives Toyota a repeat, and it took the honors alongside the SUV of Texas winner, the Lexus GX550.  

“After being the most popular mid-size pickup in the U.S. the last 20 years in a row, it’s great to see the all-new Tacoma be presented Truck of Texas,” said Dedra DeLilli, Toyota vice president – Vehicle Marketing and Communications. “We are honored that TAWA recognized the Tacoma as the first Truck of Texas from a segment other than full-size pickup.” 

The 2025 Toyota Tacoma is the product of a recent comprehensive redesign. The new truck rides on a re-engineered frame and boasts a new pair of engines, one of which even benefits from a hybrid system. This overhaul makes the already-rock-solid Tacoma even more advantageous in the tightening mid-size pickup segment.  

“The new generation Tacoma debuted in the spring of 2023 with two new powertrains, including the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, with a total system output of up to 326 horsepower and a whopping 465 lb-ft of torque, a 75 percent increase in torque compared to the previous generation V6-powered truck,” Toyota said when it announced its win, emphasizing its American origins as key influences on the truck’s success. 

“Designed by Calty Design Research in California, engineered by TMNA R&D in Ann Arbor, and assembled for North America, Tacoma offers 11 unique grades to fit various lifestyles and customer needs,” Toyota said. “The new Trailhunter grade builds upon Toyota’s legendary off-road and overlanding credibility with purpose-built engineering and robust components.” 

If you haven’t already seen the redesigned Tacoma in person, you can check it out today at Sharp Automotive in Watertown, where Toyota’s 2025 models are already in stock. Our team of experts can guide you through all the improvements for the new model year and help you pick the truck—or SUV—that’s right for you. Schedule an appointment today!