Electric Cars

In an automotive landscape increasingly dominated by automatic transmissions, Toyota boldly preserves the manual option for its 2026 Tacoma pickup. This decision caters to a specific segment of drivers who value engagement and traditional driving feel. While the manual variant presents certain compromises in performance metrics and fuel efficiency compared to its automatic counterpart, it stands out for its distinctive character and the tactile satisfaction it offers. This review explores the nuances of driving the manual Tacoma, examining its engine characteristics, acceleration figures, and overall driving experience, reaffirming Toyota's commitment to offering choices for driving purists.

Toyota's manual-transmission Tacoma is exclusively available on four-door, four-wheel-drive models featuring a five-foot bed, extending across various trim levels including the SR, TRD Sport, and TRD Off-Road. For the entry-level SR, both manual and automatic versions share the same price point, yet the manual boasts a more potent 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque from its turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, a notable upgrade over the automatic's 228 horsepower and 243 pound-feet. Conversely, higher trim manual models experience a slight reduction in power compared to their automatic counterparts but compensate with an attractive $1100 price reduction for the TRD Off-Road variant. This strategic pricing and powertrain differentiation reflect Toyota's effort to make the manual option appealing across different buyer preferences, from budget-conscious consumers to those seeking advanced features.

The reviewed TRD Off-Road model was equipped with the $4825 TRD Off-Road Upgrade package, enhancing comfort and utility with features such as heated front seats, a JBL premium audio system, and a trailer brake controller. Additionally, it included a $1230 front anti-roll bar disconnect mechanism for superior off-road articulation. The presence of 400-watt AC outlets in the cabin and bed, along with a removable Bluetooth speaker integrated into the sound system, caters to outdoor enthusiasts and those who appreciate versatile utility. Toyota's approach allows for extensive customization, enabling buyers to spec a manual Tacoma from a practical workhorse to a luxurious, highly capable off-roader that, in some configurations, approaches the price point of a Land Cruiser. This broad appeal aims to capture both traditionalists seeking value and those fulfilling childhood dreams inspired by iconic movie vehicles.

Performance-wise, the manual Tacoma exhibits certain differences. Its EPA-estimated fuel economy stands at 18 mpg city, 23 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined, a slight decrease of 1 mpg across all categories when compared to the automatic version. The manual variant's engine delivers 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, marginally less than the non-SR automatic's 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet. Toyota has also modified the torque curve for the manual, with peak torque achieved at 2800 rpm, as opposed to the automatic's 1700 rpm, and peak horsepower at 5400 rpm, 600 rpm lower than the automatic. These adjustments are primarily attributed to the manual's flywheel design, which benefits from a more progressive power delivery. Despite these differences, both manual and automatic Tacomas maintain an identical towing capacity of 6400 pounds.

While some performance figures, particularly acceleration, are slower than the automatic model, the manual Tacoma offers a uniquely engaging driving experience. Its 0–60 mph acceleration time of 7.9 seconds trails the automatic by 0.9 seconds, and its quarter-mile time of 16.1 seconds at 87 mph is also slower. The manual Tacoma also falls behind its 2016 V-6 predecessor in all acceleration tests. However, the true appeal lies in the driver involvement. The manual's "rev hang" during upshifts suggests a more deliberate shifting style, akin to driving a diesel engine, where smooth transitions are favored over rapid gear changes. This encourages a calmer driving pace, allowing drivers to appreciate the turbo's nuanced spooling and third-gear torque. The vehicle also features a no-clutch start mode, designed for challenging off-road conditions, enabling the truck to move forward using the starter motor before the engine fully engages.

The manual Tacoma represents a cherished choice for a dedicated group of drivers in an era where manual transmissions are becoming increasingly rare. This vehicle provides a distinct connection between driver and machine, offering a driving experience that is both demanding and rewarding. Its enduring presence in the market is a testament to Toyota's understanding of a specific niche that values traditional driving skills and the tactile feedback of a stick shift. For those who appreciate the mechanical intimacy and control of a manual transmission, the Tacoma is a unique and potentially fleeting opportunity that should be embraced.

Hyundai has announced a significant recall affecting over half a million Palisade SUVs, specifically targeting models from 2020 through 2025. The core issue revolves around the third-row side-curtain airbags, which may fail to activate as intended during a collision. This defect poses a substantial safety risk, as these airbags are crucial for protecting passengers in the rear of the vehicle. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) documents highlight concerns that these faulty airbags might not adequately restrain occupants, potentially leading to increased injury in the event of an accident.

This particular recall impacts a broad range of Palisade vehicles, spanning multiple model years. According to official filings with the NHTSA, the total number of affected units reaches 568,576. This large-scale recall suggests a widespread manufacturing or design flaw in the airbag system. Notably, the affected population for this airbag issue appears to overlap with a previous recall from last September, which addressed seatbelt-related concerns in the same series of Palisade SUVs. This raises questions about potential systemic issues within certain production batches or components used across these model years.

The discovery of this defect originated from a routine compliance test conducted by the NHTSA. During this test, a 2025 Palisade model failed to meet safety standards, as a safety dummy positioned in the third row exceeded permissible movement limits during a simulated crash. Following this initial failure, Hyundai and the NHTSA collaboratively conducted further rigorous testing between April and December, ultimately confirming the presence of a defect in the third-row side-curtain airbags. This thorough investigation underscores the gravity of the problem and the commitment to passenger safety.

At present, Hyundai is actively working on developing a comprehensive fix for the malfunctioning rear airbags. Once a suitable remedy is finalized and approved, the manufacturer will promptly inform all affected vehicle owners. These owners will receive detailed instructions on how to proceed, which will typically involve scheduling an appointment at an authorized Hyundai dealership to have the necessary repairs performed. Hyundai has also committed to reimbursing owners for any out-of-pocket expenses they may incur while seeking to resolve this safety issue. For those concerned about their vehicle's status, the NHTSA website offers a resource where owners can input their vehicle's VIN to determine if it is part of this recall and access further information.

The recall of nearly 570,000 Hyundai Palisade vehicles due to potentially defective third-row side-curtain airbags highlights the ongoing importance of vehicle safety standards and manufacturer accountability. This action, initiated after a 2025 model failed a compliance test, ensures that Hyundai addresses critical safety components that are vital for passenger protection. The company's commitment to developing a solution and providing free repairs, along with reimbursement for related costs, reflects an effort to mitigate the risks posed by this serious defect and maintain consumer trust in its vehicles.