The Toyota Tacoma is no stranger to adventure, but this time it's taking on a new challenge: starring in a superhero movie.
The Toyota Tacoma is one of the most popular and capable pickup trucks in America, with a loyal fan base that loves its rugged style, reliable performance, and off-road prowess. But did you know that the Toyota Tacoma is also a movie star?
That's right, the Toyota Tacoma has a leading role in the upcoming DC Comics film Blue Beetle, which tells the story of Jaime Reyes, a teenager who gains superpowers from an alien scarab that attaches to his spine. The Tacoma is Jaime's trusty companion, helping him navigate his new life as a superhero.
The film, which is set to debut on HBO Max in 2024, features a customized Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road Double Cab in Lunar Rock color. The Toyota Tacoma Blue Beetle truck has been modified with a number of accessories and features to suit Jaime's needs, such as:
- A custom roof rack with LED light bar and solar panel
- A custom front bumper with a skid plate and tow hooks
- A custom rear bumper with spare tire carrier and bike rack
- A custom bed rack with storage boxes and jerry cans
- A custom interior with blue accents and a Blue Beetle logo
- A custom sound system with subwoofer and speakers
- A custom dashboard with touchscreen and GPS
- A custom steering wheel with buttons and switches
The Toyota Tacoma also has some hidden surprises that are revealed in the movie, such as:
- A retractable winch that can pull the truck out of trouble or tow other vehicles
- A hidden compartment that stores Jaime's Blue Beetle suit and equipment
- A voice-activated system that allows Jaime to communicate with the scarab and control the truck's functions
- A self-driving mode that can take over when Jaime is busy fighting crime or needs a break
The Toyota Tacoma was chosen for the film because of its reputation as a versatile and dependable truck that can handle any terrain and situation. The film's director, Angel Manuel Soto, said he wanted to showcase Tacoma's personality and character, as well as its connection to Jaime's Latino heritage.
"The Toyota Tacoma is more than just a truck; it's a character in the film," Soto said. "It represents Jaime's roots, his family, his culture, and his journey as a hero. It's also a badass machine that can do amazing things on and off the road."
The film's star, Xolo Maridueña, who plays Jaime Reyes/Blue Beetle, said he enjoyed driving the Tacoma and was impressed by its capabilities and features.
"The Toyota Tacoma is awesome; it's like a dream come true for me," Maridueña said. "It has everything you need for an adventure, whether it's camping, biking, surfing, or saving the world. It's also super fun to drive, especially when you activate the self-driving mode or the voice control. It feels like you're in a video game or a sci-fi movie."
The Toyota Tacoma has been featured in other films and TV shows before, such as Back to the Future, Breaking Bad, The Fast and the Furious, and The Walking Dead. But this is the first time it has a starring role in a superhero movie, which is expected to boost its popularity and appeal even more.
The Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road Double Cab starts at $37,280, but if you want to get your hands on the Blue Beetle edition, you'll have to wait until the film comes out or visit one of the special events where the truck will be displayed.
The Toyota Tacoma is ready to shift into high gear in Blue Beetle. Are you?