The trend of muted luxury apartment aesthetics might be fading away, and it appears that an embrace of bolder choices is emerging, resonating across various industries, including automotive. With a vibrant shift in color palettes expected in the automotive market, Toyota is leading the charge by introducing a striking new color called Wave Maker for its popular TRD Pro models, including the Tacoma, 4Runner, Tundra, and Sequoia, set to debut in the 2026 model year.
Over the past few years, the TRD Pro lineup has seen colors that leaned towards the subdued, such as the earthy Terra and Mudbath. However, the new Wave Maker seeks to bring back the vibrancy Toyota enthusiasts crave. This bold cyan hue stands in stark contrast to the muted tones of recent years, reminiscent of vivid summer shades like blue raspberry or blue cotton candy. Benjamin Jiminez, general manager of CALTY Ann Arbor, shared that Wave Maker draws inspiration from “unexplored areas of adventure including extreme territory and even beyond earth,” which adds an intriguing dimension to its appeal.
This color isn’t just a subtle accent; it’s designed to make a statement. The size of these vehicles, especially when considering a Wave Maker Sequoia, introduces an entire canvas of brilliant color that promises to turn heads and spark conversations. The timing of this release in the autumn might seem unusual for a color that embodies summer vibes, yet it could also serve as a refreshing antidote to the seasonal blues.
Toyota’s commitment to exploring brighter options is commendable and could signal a broader trend towards boldness in the automotive industry. While the Wave Maker will initially be exclusive to the TRD Pro series, past experiences with colors like Inferno suggest that its popularity could lead to wider availability across Toyota’s lineup. This evolution in color choices hints at a more adventurous spirit that many consumers seem ready to welcome.