Toyota’s known for reliable trucks, but they’re finally adding a hybrid option! This is a big deal because it means these trucks can be powerful and eco-friendly at the same time. Toyota offers two hybrid truck systems: a strong twin-turbo V6 for the Tundra and Sequoia, and a single-turbo four-cylinder for the Tacoma, 4Runner, and Land Cruiser. We’ll focus on the four-cylinder system here.
This system is simpler than Toyota’s usual Prius hybrid. It combines a small battery, an electric motor, and a powerful four-cylinder engine. The electric motor helps the engine deliver strong bursts of power, especially when accelerating or towing.
While the battery isn’t big enough for long electric-only driving, it does allow the engine to shut off sometimes, like when coasting on the highway. This system is more about performance than saving tons of gas, but it does offer slightly better fuel economy compared to the gas-only versions of these trucks.
Reliability shouldn’t be a major concern. Toyota uses tried-and-tested Nickel-Metal-Hydride batteries and a simple electric motor. The bigger focus for reliability is on the engine itself since trucks often carry heavy loads and go off-road.
Toyota has strengthened the engine components specifically for truck use. They’ve considered how the engine will be used for tasks like towing and crawling up steep hills. This special design ensures the engine gets the oil it needs in all situations.
An automatic transmission allows for good towing capacity and a low-gear option, which is important for off-roading. Toyota even had to adjust the controls for low gear to give drivers more precise control over all that extra torque.
We tested this system out in the Land Cruiser and Tacoma, and it works smoothly both on and off-road. The goal was for the hybrid system to feel natural, and they achieved it! You barely notice it’s there.
Only time will tell how this new hybrid system stacks up, but Toyota takes their trucks seriously and isn’t known for missing the mark. So far, so good! This hybrid system seems like a powerful addition to their truck lineup.
