Toyota Tacoma 2016 release date, specs & update: Japan company pays homage to 'Back to the Future' with Marty McFly-inspired pickup

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Oct 23, 2015 06:00 AM EDT

Toyota, one of the largest automakers in the world, will be one with all the "Back to the Future" fans as they commemorate the 30th anniversary of Marty McFly's and Doc Brown's fabled escapades through time.

The movie, which starred Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd, is considered as one of the most beloved science fiction films in history. And, it is just fitting that Toyota is paying homage to the iconic film which has tickled the imagination of many at that time, with their own take of what they deem as technology for the future--- the hydrogen fuel cell technology inside their latest Toyota Mirai vehicle.

The automotive company has also created a buzz for their 2016 Tacoma by reimagining McFly's dream truck. Their very own version of the iconic vehicle was displayed in three major cities of Los Angeles, New York and Dallas, the Mashable reported.

"While there are a lot of  brands and activations that are celebrating the Back to the Future milestone, Toyota  stands apart for their nod to the future and the past with the auto technology depicted in the movies," said Bob Gale, Back to the Future co-creator and producer.  "When Toyota approached us about helping tell a bigger story about the future and innovation with the Mirai, we loved the direction - and who can resist Marty's retro Toyota truck?"

Bill Fay, Toyota division group vice president and general manager, believed that the best way to celebrate the turning point in automotive history is to partner with those behind the film which celebrates the possibilities of the future, according to the company's press release.

The all-new Toyota Tacoma 2016 will come in with a price range of around $24,000 to $38,000, according to CarAndDriver. It will come in different variants with engine types of DOHC 16-valve 2.7-liter inline-4, 159 hp,180 lb-ft and DOHC 24-valve 3.5-liter V-6, 278 hp, 265 lb-ft. It will also be available in 5-speed or 6-speed manual, and 6-speed automatic with manual shifting mode. As of this writing, the Tacoma 2016's official release date is yet to be announced.

"Over the years we've had a lot of fun predicting which Back to the Future fictional 2015 technology would arrive by the real year," Michael J. Fox said. "I think fans are going to have a good time with what Toyota sees as a true possibility for transportation. It's actually really cool."

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