2024 Toyota Tacoma Overview
The Toyota Tacoma is a midsize pickup truck that has earned a reputation for its rugged durability, off-road capability, and reliable performance. Introduced in 1995, the Tacoma quickly became popular among drivers who needed a versatile truck for both work and play. Known for its robust build quality and strong resale value, the Tacoma offers a variety of trims and configurations, making it suitable for a wide range of needs — from daily commuting to serious off-roading adventures.
Whether you’re hauling gear, towing trailers, or navigating challenging terrains, the Toyota Tacoma stands out as a reliable and capable choice in the midsize truck segment.
What’s New in 2024
2024 is a year of change as Toyota positions itself to continue its dominance in the off-road sectors. With competition from Ford and GM knocking on the door, Toyota made some bold moves toward a more planet-friendly truck with the introduction of a hybrid engine capable of 326 horses. In addition, Toyota mounted the Tacoma on the same chassis as the Tundra and Sequoia and some models now come with a 6-speed manual transmission option. The rear suspension is now coil-spring in many of the upper-level trims.
With 8 models to choose from with a variety of trim levels, there is a Tacoma for everyone. There are two new models for this year: Trailhunter and PreRunner. Even though the name PreRunner has been used in the past, this is an RWD XtraCab model only.
Photo by Toyota
Pricing
From the low $30,000 range to an upper-level TRD Pro at $65,395, prices look like they are wildly different, but when you break out the models and trim levels, most prices are at the mid-$30,000 mark, which is in line with the average price of other 4WD mid-range trucks. The Ford Ranger has a sticker of $32,000, and the GMC Canyon is close to $36,000.
MSRP and Trim Levels
Here is a list of the eight trim levels and their MSRP:
Model | MSRP |
---|---|
SR | $31,500 |
SR5 | $36,200 |
PreRunner | $38,100 |
TRD Sport | $39,400 |
TRD Off-Road | $41,800 |
Limited | $52,100 |
Trailhunter | $64,395 |
TRD Pro | $65,395 |
All prices are subject to change and are current as of 2024.
Toyota Tacoma Trim Levels Comparison
Engine | Horsepower | Drivetrain | Seating | Cool Features | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
SR | i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder | 228 | RWD | 2-5 | Available six-speed manual transmission; Available in Double Cab or Xtra Cab |
SR5 | i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder | 278 | Available 4WD | 2-5 | Coil spring rear suspension; 17-inch wheels |
TRD PreRunner | i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder | 278 | RWD | 2 | Standard 6-ft bed; electronically controlled locking rear dif |
TRD Sport | i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder | 326 | Available 4WD | 5 | Hybrid available; TRD sport-tuned suspension; available 6-speed MT |
TRD Off-Road | i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid four-cylinder | 326 | 4WD | 5 | Bilstein shocks; CRAWL control and Multi-Terrain Select |
Limited | i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid four-cylinder | 326 | Available 4WD | 5 | Adaptive variable suspension; 18-inch wheels; Power tailgate |
Trailhunter | i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid four-cylinder | 326 | 4WD | 5 | High-clearance bumpers; rock rails; high-mount air intake; hybrid engine |
TRD Pro | i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid four-cylinder | 326 | 4WD | 5 | Fox™ shocks, IsoDynamic performance seats; hybrid engine |
Here is a list of some of the standard equipment for each trim level:
SR
- i-FORCE 2.4L turbo 4-cylinder
- 228 Horsepower with 243 lb-ft of torque
- Smart Key push-button start
- 8-inch display
- Proximity key entry
- LED exterior lighting
- Wireless app capability for Apple CarPlay® and Android™
Photo by Toyota
SR5
- i-FORCE 2.4L turbo 4-cylinder
- 278 Horsepower with 317 lb-ft of torque
- Coil spring rear suspension on the Double Cab only
- 17-inch alloy wheels
TRD PreRunner
- i-FORCE 2.4L turbo 4-cylinder
- 278 Horsepower with 317 lb-ft of torque
- Large brake package
- Electronically locking rear differential
- Electronically controlled locking rear differential
TRD Sport
- TRD sport-tuned suspension shocks
- Black 18-inch TRD alloy wheels
- Door handles and overfenders color-keyed
- Black badging
- Aluminum pedals
- TRD mesh grille with hood scoop
- 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster
- 8-inch touchscreen
TRD Off-Road
- Electronic locking rear differential
- Monotube Bilstein remote reservoir shocks
- End stop control valve for increased damping force
- Available front stabilizer bar disconnect system
- Multi-terrain Select with CRAWL control
Photo by Toyota
Limited
- Adaptive variable suspension
- Heads up display
- 14-inch screen
- 10-speaker JBL system
- Digital rearview mirror
- Power Moonroof
- Power retractable side steps
- 18-inch chrome finished alloy wheels
- Power tailgate
- Power running boards
Trailhunter
- i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid four-cylinder
- 326 horsepower with 465 lb-ft of torque
- Electronic locking rear differential
- Old Man Emu 4×4 suspension by ARB
- Rock rails, high-strength steel skid plates
- OME shocks and 33-inch Goodyear Territory R/T tires
- Bronze TOYOTA Heritage grille with light bar
TRD Pro
- i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid four-cylinder
- 326 horsepower with 465 lb-ft of torque
- TRD air intake
- TRD cat-back tips
- Electronic locking rear differential
- Red aluminum front TRD upper control arm
- Black TRD wheels with 33-inch Goodyear Territory R/T tires
- Aluminum skid plate
- LED bar with LED headlights
Photo by Toyota
Optional Packages and Add-ons
Even the most basic of the Tacomas now come with a turbocharged engine, which is a great improvement over the outgoing SR models. In addition to cab, transmission, and bed size, other choices for the SR include the following:
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Parking Assist
- LED bed lights
- Deck rail
- Digital key capability
SR5 Upgrade Options
- Leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob
- JBL Premium audio with portable speaker
- Wireless charging
- Automatic climate control
- Park Assist
- LED bed lights
- Integrated Trailer brake controller
- Digital key capability
Another upgrade package for the SR5 includes the Cold Weather Package featuring heated front seats along with the other options.
PreRunner Upgrade Options
- Wireless charging
- HomeLink
- Park Assist
- LED bed lights
- Integrated trailer brake controller
- Digital key capability
TRD Sport Upgrade Options
- Hybrid power
- Heated seats with 8-way power
- Heated leather-trimmed steering wheel
- JBL Premium Audio with portable speaker
- Wireless charging
- Park Assist
- Prewired AUX switches
- Integrated Trailer brake controller
- Digital key capability
- Power horizontal rear window
Photo by Toyota
TRD Sport Premium Option
- SofTex-trimmed heated and ventilated seats
- 8-way power seat
- Leather-trimmed heated steering wheel
- 14-inch multimedia display
- Panoramic view monitor
- JBL Premium audio with portable speaker
- Moonroof
- Wireless charging
- Dual-zone climate control
- Park Assist
- Pedestrian detection
- Prewired AUX switches
- Digital rearview mirror
- Towing Tech package
- Power tailgate
- Digital key capability
- AC power inverter
- Power horizontal rear window
Off-Road Upgrade Options
- Fabric-trimmed heated 8-way power seats
- Leather-trimmed heated steering wheel
- JBL Premium audio with portable speaker
- Wireless charging
- Park Assist
- Prewired AUX switches
- Integrated Trailer Brake Control
- Digital key capability
- AC power inverter
- Power horizontal rear window
Other premium packages for the Off-Road model include ventilated seats, a 14-inch audio multimedia display, a multi-terrain monitor, a moonroof, and more.
Photo by Toyota
Exterior Design
When it comes to the exterior of the Tacoma, you might not think that much has changed, but Toyota gave it a facelift in 2024 that included a more aggressive look and stance to stand out from the competition in the mid-sized truck category.
Style and Aesthetics
Using the Baja race trucks as their inspiration, the team at Toyota’s CALTY Design Research Center in California reworked the body to meet off-road expectations. From high lift to big tires to a slim body, the newly designed Tacoma is ready to play. It gives a wink and a nod to its HiLux cousin with its aggressive skid plates and overall stout stance. The overfenders play a part in its tough appearance.
Dropped onto the TNGA-F truck platform, Toyota married high-strength steel to lightweight aluminum to get a nimble body with laser welds for all types of dirt acrobatics. More rigidity and less weight means more running and playing.
At the moment, there are no special or limited editions, and all models are available in the following colors:
- Terra
- Bronze Oxide
- Supersonic Red
- Solar Octane
- Black
- Blue Crush Metallic
- Underground
- Celestial Silver Metallic
- Ice Cap
- Wind Chill Pearl
Photo by Toyota
Depending on which trim level you choose, the interior choices include fabrics in boulder or black, SofTex trim in black, mineral, light gray, and cockpit red.
Dimensions and Measurements
SR | SR5 5ft/6ft | TRD PreRunner | TRD Sport 5ft/6ft | TRD Off-Road 5ft/6ft | Limited | Trailhunter 5ft/6ft | TRD Pro | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Length | 213 | 213/226.2 | 213 | 213/226.2 | 213/226.2 | 213 | 213/226.2 | 213 |
Width | 76.9 | 76.9 | 77.9 | 77.9 | 77.9 | 77.9 | 77.9 | 77.9 |
Height | 74 | 73.8 | 74.6 | 74.4-74.7 | 74.4-75.7 | 77.9 | 75.5-75.8 | 75.8 |
Wheelbase | 131.9 | 131.9/145.1 | 131.9 | 131.9/145.1 | 131.9/145.1 | 131.9 | 131.9/145.1 | 131.9 |
Interior Features
A lot has been written about the interior of the Tacoma with most of the focus on the layout of the buttons and functionality.
Photo by Toyota
Cabin Design and Comfort
Regardless of the model, all of the Tacoma interiors have been designed with the driver in mind. Every button and knob – real buttons and real knobs, by the way – have been strategically placed for convenience, which allows you to make terrain selections and equipment engagements without taking your eyes off the road.
Except for the TRD Pro, all of the seating in the front is wide and flat to accommodate all sizes, and while the seats are cloth, they are made from durable fabrics. All models have a rear seat issue, but the TRD Pro is the worse with the IsoDynamic shock seats hogging all of the rear legroom.
Photo by Toyota
Technology and Infotainment
The infotainment system is standard in all models and includes all the connectivity options you would expect in a 2024 or 2025 vehicle. The standard size screen is 8 inches with a 14-inch upgrade in upper models. You can turn the screen off if you prefer.
In the higher-end models, the multiscreen offers camera views for monitoring trail activity. The cameras can even see under your Tacoma.
Toyota installed JBL audio systems in all of the models with a detachable speaker that can be taken outside of the truck.
In addition to the most common connections on the tech side, upper-tier models have a wireless charging pad and plenty of USB-C charge ports throughout the truck. The charging pad has an awkward angle to it, so you could have issues with your phone not getting fully charged.
Photo by Toyota
Performance and Capability
When it comes to performance and capability, this is a Toyota we’re talking about, so you can expect a high level of performance and reliability across all models.
Engine Options and Specs
Engine | Horsepower | Torque | MPG | |
---|---|---|---|---|
SR | i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder | 228 | 243 | 19/24/21 |
SR5 | i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder | 278 | 317 | 19/24/21 |
TRD PreRunner | i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder | 278 | 317 | 20/24/22 |
TRD Sport | i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder | 326 | 465 | 20/24/22 |
TRD Off-Road | i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid four-cylinder | 326 | 465 | 19/23/21 |
Limited | i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid four-cylinder | 326 | 465 | 20/23/21 |
Trailhunter | i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid four-cylinder | 326 | 465 | 22/24/23 |
TRD Pro | i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid four-cylinder | 326 | 465 | 22/24/23 |
Photo by Toyota
Towing and Payload Capacity
Toyota has emphasized storage and towing by offering two bed sizes depending on the model, and numerous storage areas throughout the cab, including door pockets. The XtraCab gives you ample storage behind the front seats for cargo.
In the Double Cab, the rear seat folds down, and if you flip up the cushions, there is a storage bin under the seat as well.
The max payload capacity is 1,705 pounds and towing is above average at 6,500 pounds as long as you have the right equipment on your model. That’s more than enough to tow a small or medium-sized trailer with ease.
Available Trailer Brake Controller and Tow/Haul drive mode keep the throttle and transmission aligned with your needs. The Trailer Backup Guide and Straight Path Assist make backing up a breeze.
Photo by Toyota
Off-Road Capabilities
The real test of any Toyota Tacoma comes when the wheels leave the pavement and start throwing up rooster tails. Whether or not the model has TRD emblazoned on it doesn’t mean it must stay on the asphalt. The entry-level SR can get down and dirty alongside everyone else.
With the new TNGA-F chassis, this solid lightweight truck can run with the big boys. As MotorTrend reviewers found out, it can catch some air, and with the appearance of shocks over leaf springs, the landings don’t knock your teeth from your head.
Because it’s powered by the i-FORCE or i-FORCE MAX, you get a lot of torque for powering through the dirt and mud. If you order the 6-speed manual transmission, you enhance your ability to crawl over rocks thanks to the auto rev-matching clutch start cancel and anti-stall technology.
An available stabilizer disconnect option gives you the ability to increase the suspension articulation with the touch of a button. One of those handy buttons.
Gain increased grip for the most obnoxious terrain with the electronically controlled rear differential on select models.
The TRD Pro models add TRD-tuned Fox suspension components to the mix. There are three modes to choose from by turning the knobs on each of the QS3 internal bypass shocks, so you can set your ride. Each shock has a 2.5-inch aluminum housing with rear remote reservoirs.
The Trailhunter model is equipped with an Old Man Emu 2.5-inch forged monotube shocks with external remote reservoirs for maximum performance on the worst terrain. It is also equipped with 33-inch 18-inch wheels, so leave a big footprint wherever you travel.
Photo by Toyota
Safety Features
Like all Toyotas, safety is the key to enjoying your ride. The legendary Toyota Safety Sense is critical when it comes to driving, and there are plenty of innovations to up the game.
Standard and Optional Safety Systems and Driver Assistance
The standard safety features include the following:
- Pre-collision with pedestrian warning
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Lane Departure Alert and Steering Assist
- Auto High Beams
- Lane Tracking Assist with Emergency Driving Stop – new for this year
- Road Sign Assist – new for this year
- Proactive Driving Assist – new for this year in the automatic transmission models only
As you upgrade the model, you get more safety features like a Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Hill Start Assist, and more.
Safety Ratings
According to the IIHS, the 2016-2023 Toyota Tacoma rated good on its overall evaluation, good on the structure and safety cage, and good for passengers.
The NHTSA gave the Tacoma a 4 Star average with a breakdown as follows:
- Overall Safety Rating: Four Stars
- Frontal Crash (Driver/Passenger Seats): Four Stars
- Rollover Crash: Four Stars
- Side Pole Crash: Four Stars
- Side Barrier Crash (Front/Rear Seats): Five Stars
Photo by Toyota
Competitor Comparison
Many of the latest upgrades to the Tacoma can be traced back to more competitive playing fields. With large trucks being much bigger than the average truck consumer wanted, manufacturers like Ford and GM turned toward the mid-sized market where the Tacoma has been firmly planted for years.
Comparison with Other Mid-Size Trucks
Because of the market opening up, Tacoma has some healthy competition from models like the Ford Ranger Raptor, and the Chevrolet Colorado Bison, as well as the Jeep Gladiator. Here is a breakdown of the specs for these trucks:
Engine | Transmission | Seating | Horsepower | Torque | Price | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Tacoma TRD Pro | 2.4L Hybrid Turbo | 6-speed AT | 5 | 326 | 465 | $65,395 |
Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison | 2.7L I4 turbo | 8-speed AT | 5 | 310 | 430 | $29,800 |
Ford Ranger Raptor | 3.0L Twin Turbo V6 | 10-speed AT | 5 | 405 | 430 | $55,620 |
Jeep Gladiator | 3.6L V6 | 6-speed MT | 5 | 285 | 260 | $44,995 |
Pros and Cons
Like all vehicles, there are pros and cons, so here are some of the comments heard around the web:
Pros
- Tough truck
- Hybrid
- Reliable
- Weight
- Nimble
- Good gas mileage
- Towing capacity is good for a mid-sized truck
Cons
- Price
- Seating
- Underpowered
- Unnecessary equipment like the power tailgate and movable speakers
Photo by Toyota
Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Since this generation is 2 years old, there are only a handful of reviews available outside of the normal reviews from Edmunds, Car and Driver, and MotorTrend. However, folks on the forums have expressed their options about the new Tacoma like Sparky who has a 2024 Double Cab Limited and says it’s fun to drive and it’s quiet. He also says the driver’s position is very comfortable and the Sport+ mode makes for a peppy engine. The back seat would not work for adults to ride in.
Owner Experiences
In addition, one “non-professional” review says that it appears to be a bigger truck from the outside, even though it’s the same size as his 2021. He liked the removal of the rear drum brakes and the loss of the leaf springs, which are still on the lower-end models.
Happy Camper tried out the Ranger and other competitors before settling for the SR Double Cab 2.4L 5.0 ft bed model. He says the engine and transmission are wonderfully tuned, especially comparing it to the clunkiness of the outgoing V6. He likes all of the buttons, and the seats are firm and supportive, which he compares to being equal to his M3 in comfort. He says don’t put anyone you like in the back seat, and the fuel tank is too small and only good for about 300 miles. He took his air dam off. Overall, he gives it 5 stars for everything but the value, which only earned three stars.
Joe hates the auto/start/stop, which most people hate in any car or truck. He also stated the auto braking was too touchy, so he disconnected his. He owns a 2024 TRD Sport.
Conclusion
There are so many configurations and trim level upgrades in the new Tacoma that finding the perfect model should be easy for most mid-sized truck consumers.
Summary of Key Points
The new 2024 Tacoma is a redesign of the older truck with a new build from the ground up that helps Toyota keep its lineup more organized. With Toyota’s commitment to Beyond Zero Vision, the hybrid engine is a step toward a carbon-neutral future that adds the Tacoma to a growing list of 16 electric models in their fleet.
The latest Tacoma is a testament to the long-standing off-road world that Toyota dominates. With TRD technology under the hood, in the corners, and the cockpit, all Tacomas can rock the trails with ease.
Photo by Toyota
Final Thoughts
If off-road is your thing, take a look at the latest Tacoma. If you’re more nostalgic at heart, the Renoca Windansea may be more to your liking. The Renoca is an exclusive retro-mod build from Flex that combines the best of the current technology with the design and looks of an older model truck. Of course, all of the components are up-to-date and meet the latest safety standards.
If you’d like more information on the Tacoma or the Renoca Windansea, then contact FLEX Automotive.
FAQs
What is the delivery time for the 2024 Toyota Tacoma?
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma should have arrived at dealerships as of December 2023. The TRD Pro wasn’t slated for production until the Spring of 2024, so they should be hitting the dealerships in limited numbers by the Fall of 2024.
What is the fuel economy of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma?
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma’s fuel economy depends on the model. The 2.4L i-FORCE gets 19/24/21 and the i-FORCE MAX gets 20/24/22. The hybrid i-FORCE MAX gets 22/24/23.
Photo by Toyota
What engine options are available for the 2024 Toyota Tacoma?
There are two options: i-FORCE 2.4L turbo and i-FORCE MAX 2.4L.
What is the towing capacity of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma?
The towing capacity of the Toyota Tacoma is 6,500 pounds.
What safety features are included in the 2024 Toyota Tacoma?
Standard safety equipment includes the following:
- Pre-collision with pedestrian warning
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Lane Departure Alert and Steering Assist
- Auto High Beams
- Lane Tracking Assist with Emergency Driving Stop – new for this year
- Road Sign Assist – new for this year
- Proactive Driving Assist – new for this year in the automatic transmission models only
If you want more information on the Tacoma, then contact us. Also, check out this article on the best years for a Tacoma.