Toyota SX Appearance Package Debuts on 2023 Tacoma and Tundra
No major updates for 2023, but the Toyota Tacoma and Tundra SX package adds subtle, custom style to both trucks.
Toyota announced new SX and Chrome limited appearance packages for the Tacoma and Tundra today. Redesigned in the past year, the packages for both trucks are limited to trim and wheels. It’s a textbook play by Toyota which typically offers minor tweaks and trim packages throughout a vehicle’s lifecycle. But while the changes may be minor, they do provide a distinctive look for both trucks.
Tacoma Highlights
- The SX Package available for the SR5 Access Cab and Double Cab
- The Chrome Package includes chrome accents and 18-inch Chrome-Finished Alloy Wheels
Previously available on the Tacoma SR, the SX package is available on V6-powered SR5s with the Access Cab or Double Cab. It includes rugged black over-fenders, black wheels, as well as black trim, and badging. Exterior mirrors also receive the blackout treatment and a unique bed graphic.
The 2023 Tacoma Chrome Package is also available for V6-powered SR5 Double Cabs with a 5-foot bed. Anchored by 18-inch chrome-finished alloy wheels, the Chrome Package includes chrome-finished trim, exhaust tip, and TACOMA tailgate insert.
Outside of the new packages, the Tacoma returns unchanged for 2023. The lineup includes the SR, SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, TRD Pro, and Trail Edition and Nightshade Edition trim levels.
Tundra Highlights
- New SX Package Adds Custom Style with High Value
- 2023 Tundra Available with i-FORCE MAX Powertrain, Produces 437 hp, 583 lb.-ft.
The 2022 Tundra receives the SX package and is available on the SR5 Double Cab and CrewMax models. Like the Tacoma, the SX package dresses up the Tundra with Dark Gray Metallic 18-inch wheels. Body-color trim, including outer door handles and the rear inboard bumper, replaces the standard black trim. Toyota removed the Tundra door badges and blacked out the 4×4 badge on the tailgate for a minimalist look. Inside shares this treatment with black accents replacing smoked silver trim. On the Tundra, the SX Package is available in four exterior colors: White, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Celestial Silver Metallic, and Midnight Black Metallic.
i-Force Hybrid Power
The redesigned Tundra offers two new powertrains. The twin-turbo V6 engine serves as the standard engine on all trim levels and a hybrid twin-turbo V6 is available as an option. Both engines use Toyota’s 10-speed ECTi automatic transmission which features a sequential shift mode, uphill/downhill shift logic, and TOW/HAUL driving modes.
The i-FORCE 3.5-liter, twin-turbo V6 yields 389 horsepower and 479 lb.-ft. of torque. But the numbers for the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain are more impressive. It produces 437 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and a staggering 583 lb.-ft. of torque at a low 2,400 rpm. Best of all, it does it with EPA-estimated 20 MPG city/24 MPG highway/22 MPG combined fuel economy ratings.
The i-FORCE MAX combines the twin-turbo V6 with an electric motor located between the engine and transmission. The electric motor provides additional power through the transmission, while engine start-up, EV driving, electric-assist, and energy regeneration are done via the parallel hybrid components. A 288V sealed Nickel-metal Hydride (Ni-MH) battery located under the rear passenger seats powers the electric motor which does the bulk of the work above 18 mph. When in TOW/HAUL mode, the i-FORCE MAX system is constantly in operation to provide impressive acceleration and torque for towing needs.
Photos: Toyota Motor Company
