Toyota Tacoma TRD T/X Baja Series Limited Edition Unveiled at Texas State Fair

The opening of the Texas State Fair is always sure to usher in a new group of pickup trucks, with every automaker looking to use the event as a staging point for their latest vehicle. The venue couldn’t be more perfect, with pickup trucks making up one quarter of all vehicles sold in the state.

While new and updated models are expected from the domestic truck makers, Toyota is also showing off its latest wares, including its most hard-core Tacoma yet. Based on the best-selling compact pickup, the TRD T/X Baja Series limited edition takes the Tacoma’s off-road capability to new levels with 60mm piston Bilstein race shocks and TRD coil springs, allowing for an extra inch in wheel travel up front with an extra 2-inch ride height. While out back the truck gets 50mm Bilstein shocks with a remote reservoir to better dissipate heat. Rear wheel travel has been increased 1.5-inches.

Other goodies include a TRD Off-Road package, custom wheels, BF Goodrich T/A KO tires (LT265/70R16), a TRD cat-back exhaust and, of course, some custom Baja Series graphics.

And let’s not forget the electronically-controlled locking rear differential, Active Traction Control (A-TRAC), Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC) and Downhill Assist Control (DAC). All Baja Series models come equipped with Toyota’s 4.0-liter V6 engine with either a six-speed manual of 5-speed automatic.

“The Tacoma has long been the sales leader by a wide margin in the compact pickup segment thanks to its well-earned reputation for stellar quality, durability, reliability and off-road capability,” said Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division. “The limited edition TRD T|X Baja Series adds another chapter to Toyota’s truck legacy by offering a new level of capability for off-road enthusiasts.”

For 2012 all Tacomas feature an updated exterior and interior. The special edition Tacoma is set to go on sale in late Spring of 2012.