New for 2016: Toyota Trucks, SUVs, and Vans

In the next few years, many of Toyota’s SUVs and cars will be changing over to the Japanese automaker’s global modular platform. The big news for the 2016 model year is a redone Tacoma midsize pickup. The Land Cruiser full-size luxury SUV has been refreshed with more standard safety and multimedia features. In addition, the RAV4, which was redesigned for 2013, is refreshed for 2016 with more features, technology, trim levels, and welcomes its first hybrid variant.

Most other modifications for Toyota’s 2016 trucks, SUVs, and vans entail enhanced multimedia features and broader connectivity, the availability of more advanced safety systems, a few trim level additions, and exterior color changes. Expect possible full redesigns for the Sienna and 4Runner in 2017 as 2018 models. Also, the Tundra may get a refresh in 2017 and a redesign in calendar 2018 as a 2019 model, while a new Sequoia may be likely in 2019 and a new Highlander and Land Cruiser are likely to debut in 2017.

Following is an overview of new or updated features for each 2016 Toyota truck, SUV, and van model:

2016 Toyota 4Runner

• New Quicksand color for TRD Pro Series Edition

• Upgraded Entune multimedia systems with Siri eyes-free mode

• SR5 Premium and Trail Premium trims feature standard Entune Premium Audio with navigation and app suite

• Limited gets Entune Premium JBL audio with navigation and app suite

2016 Toyota Highlander

• Towing package with capacity up to 5,000 lbs. is standard with V-6 engine

• Available Driver Easy Speak System

• More amenities and additional features to multimedia systems for Limited and Platinum trim levels

2016 Toyota Land Cruiser

• Redesign with new exterior and interior

• Drivetrain upgrade with 8-speed automatic transmission

• More standard advanced safety and driver-assist technologies including pre-collision, frontal-collision avoidance, pedestrian-protection systems and blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert

• Multimedia system updated: Entune 2.5 multimedia with Siri Eyes Free mode and 9-in. display

• Standard rear-seat entertainment system with dual 10-in. screens

• Qi wireless phone charging added

• All amenities are standard—no options

2016 Toyota RAV4

• Refreshed, sleeker styling with new front fascia and lighting treatments plus new rear bumper and liftgate

• Updated improved interior with premium materials and new colors across the lineup

• More optional safety technologies such as front and rear parking sonar, 4-camera view of surroundings, park-assist system, and Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) advanced safety package that is standard on Limited

• New wheel lineup and three new exterior paint colors

• New SE trim level added to LE, XLE, and Limited gas-powered versions that provides sport-tuned suspension and offers premium and sportier styling

• New RAV4 hybrid model in two trim levels—XLE and Limited—that offers more horsepower, better fuel economy

2016 Toyota Sequoia

• New Safety and Convenience package for Limited trim level that includes blind-spot monitoring, power memory driver’s seat, and memory outside mirrors

• Entune multimedia system has been upgraded with new audio and navigation features and connectivity and is standard on the SR5 trim level

• Full-time 4-wheel drive (4WD) is available

• Three trim levels: SR5, Limited, and Platinum

2016 Toyota Sienna

• Four Entune multimedia systems available and upgraded for 2016 with Siri Eyes Free mode

• Connected navigation app link for Entune Audio Plus head units

• Eight standard air bags and more advanced safety systems available

2016 Toyota Tacoma

• Redesigned using high-strength steel with an aggressive upper grille and taller, more muscular stance and hood

• Two engines available: standard 2.7-liter 4-cylinder produces 159 horsepower and 180 lb.-ft. torque; optional 3.5-liter V-6 powertrain with Atkinson-cycle motor that generates 278 horsepower—both paired with 6-speed automatic transmission; manual is optional

• Enhanced suspension tuning for smoother ride and off-road technology added

• New locking tailgate and integrated spoiler

• Sporty interior with fabric and leather options for Limited trim level

• Available in 29 configurations in two cab types with eight exterior paint choices, including three new colors: Quicksand, Inferno, and Blazing Blue Pearl

• More standard safety systems

• Nine comfort and technology packages offered

• All SR trim levels equipped with the base Entune audio system that includes Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity

2016 Toyota Tundra

• Updated front styling on SR5 and 1794 Edition

• Trailer brake controller now standard with 5.7-liter V-8 engine

• Upgraded (V2.5) Entune multimedia systems, including on base SR trim level

• Standard Toyota Star Safety System and more advanced safety system technology options

• TRD Off-Road package on SR5 and Limited and, also for 2016, the 1794 Edition that shares billing with the Platinum trim level as a western-themed truck with new lighting systems, premium interiors, and higher-end suite of multimedia and telematics features

• TRD Pro model with special suspension and new styling for 2016

Additional Research:

• 2016 Toyota Cars Buyer’s Guide

• Toyota Car, Truck & SUV Quality, Dependability & Performance Ratings

• 2015 Toyota Trucks, SUVs, and Vans Buyer's Guide

• 2014 Toyota Trucks, SUVs, and Vans Buyer's Guide

Abstract:

The big news for Toyota for the 2016 model year is a redone Tacoma midsize pickup. Also, the Land Cruiser full-size luxury SUV has been refreshed with more standard safety and multimedia features. In addition, the RAV4, which was redesigned for 2013, is refreshed for 2016 with more features, technology, trim levels, and welcomes its first hybrid variant.

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