By Andrew Ganz
Friday, Jul 30th, 2010 @ 10:14 am

Toyota’s ever-popular entry-level Tacoma pickup has long been a favorite at the annual SEMA show in Las Vegas. Now, the automaker says it is capitalizing on the truck’s tune-ability by offering a pair of SEMA-inspired packages, the T|X and T|X Pro performance-style groups.

Based on the 2009 SEMA show truck, the packages will be limited production factory options on Tacoma V6 Access and Double Cab configurations with both two and four-wheel-drive models already equipped with the TRD Off Road Package.

The base T|X group adds 16-inch black alloy bead lock wheels wrapped in 265/70-16 BFGoodrich Rugged Trail tires, black tubular side steps, a stainless steel exhaust tip and a unique exterior graphics package. The option runs $1,699, which Toyota says is a $754 discount for the features.

The T|X Pro package adds a cat-back TRD performance exhaust system but costs the same $1,699 as the basic group.

Both packages are covered under the Tacoma’s standard 3 year, 36,000-mile factory warranty. Ordering for the two packages begins immediately and deliveries are scheduled for September.

As for the odd T|X moniker? Toyota says it stands for “Tacoma|Extreme.”