New Toyota Ad Campaign Features Off-Road Playground

Toyota reminds us how they got their reputation for off-road prowess with a series of new, entertaining videos.

Toyota has enjoyed a reputation for building some of the world’s finest off-road vehicles for decades. And as the world-wide popularity of off-roading continues to grow, why not reaffirm that fact with a new advertising campaign? Well, that’s exactly what Toyota has set out to do with a humorous series of 15 second clips taking place in a virtual off-road playground.

Every “Taco Tuesday” through May and June, Toyota is dropping a fresh adventure via their YouTube channel. Each one features a host of legendary names including off-road racer Ivan Stewart and Motorcross racer Andy Bell. And while each bit also showcases the latest Tacoma, you’ll also find cameos from a range of vintage models. The idea is to showcase the fact that Toyota’s off-road heritage is, and always has been, a part of its DNA.

The first bit features none other than 15-time off-road champion Stewart “interrupting” Bell and his new Taco by kicking up some dirt. And suggesting he get a haircut. Then, Bell’s mom makes a cameo in a hilarious bit involving a wrecked jet ski. And then there’s perhaps our favorite, a clip dubbed “Generations” that celebrates the Tacoma’s standing as America’s best-selling compact pickup for 12 years,

From taco (and Taco) trucks to jogging mascots, these fun commercials are loaded with entertaining stuff. And while many manufacturers tend to ignore or eschew their past, it’s nice to see Toyota embracing it. And why wouldn’t they? The Tacoma and its predecessors have long held a reputation for their off-road prowess. And today’s newcomers to the hobby should know all about it.

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Brett Foote

Brett Foote has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is a longtime contributor to Internet Brands’ Auto Group sites, including Chevrolet Forum, Rennlist, and Ford Truck Enthusiasts, among other popular sites.

He has been an automotive enthusiast since the day he came into this world and rode home from the hospital in a first-gen Mustang, and he's been wrenching on them nearly as long.

In addition to his expertise writing about cars, trucks, motorcycles, and every other type of automobile, Brett had spent several years running parts for local auto dealerships.

You can follow along with his builds and various automotive shenanigans on Instagram: @bfoote.