2024 Toyota Tacoma: A Comprehensive Guide On Features, Specs, And Pricing

Summary

• New models and powertrains: The 2024 Toyota Tacoma introduces two new models, the Trailhunter and the PreRunner, along with a 2.4-liter turbo inline-four engine. Hybrid powertrains will also be available in the spring of 2024.
• Advanced customization and upgrades: The Tacoma offers various configurations and features that allow for nearly unlimited customization. Each grade of the Tacoma has received specific upgrades based on its intended purpose. Advanced off-road tech makes the Tacoma a go-anywhere multi-purpose vehicle.
• Drawbacks: The max towing capacity is lower than the previous generation model, and rivals offer better rear seat legroom. The 2024 Tacoma is also pricier than the outgoing model.

For a long time now, the Toyota Tacoma has served as the poster child for mid-size pickups. Capable, quick, and fun to drive, the Tacoma is a purpose-built utility vehicle with adventure ingrained in its D.N.A. These tenets have held true since the inception of the Tacoma in 1995.

The 2024 model year aims to expand on the already stellar capability and adrenaline offered by the Taco by not only advancing its design but also incorporating past successes that have made the Tacoma special. Specialized aftermarket inclusions and a plethora of available features diversify the line-up’s performance and luxury. This includes both aftermarket suspension and entertainment upgrades that are sure to make your Tacoma the envy of all pickup drivers.

Both on and off the road, this mighty mid-size pickup will get the job done. Toyota made sure to include an extensive suite of driver safety and assist functions as well as trailer assist tech to make sure. Though not boasting class-leading tow capacity, the Tacoma can pull enough to fuel endless adventures, which is likely where you’ll find yourself when behind the wheel of this extremely capable pickup.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including Toyota, Toyota Pressroom, Chevrolet, Jeep, JD Power, and KBB.

What’s New For 2024?

For 2024, the Tacoma makes good on its promise of a go-anywhere, do-anything model by including multiple powertrains, bed sizes, cab sizes, seating arrangements, and driveline options. These range from a 4X2 RWD two-seater to a 4X4 hybrid hauler. Suffice it to say, the 2024 Tacoma is pressed and ready to tackle any trail or task right from the factory floor, or as Toyota likes to put it:” Adventure ready out of the box”.

2024 Highlights

• Toyota brought back the TRD PreRunner in both a two-seater XtraCab and a regular DoubleCab.
• Each grade received specific suspension upgrades, including FOX, OME, and Bilstein shocks.
• The new i-FORCE MAX hybrid is the most powerful ever in a Tacoma.
• Advanced trailer assist functions make hitching and maneuvering a breeze.
• The redesigned appearance nods to Toyota’s history and off-road motorsports.
• Available entertainment upgrades enhance the interior comfort experience.

Engine Specifications And Performance

The 2024 Tacoma offers four levels of power, all of which are based around the 2.4-liter turbocharged I-4 engine. The two engine options are a 2.4-liter turbocharged i-FORCE four-cylinder, and the top grade 2.4-liter i-FORCE MAX hybrid four-cylinder. The base 2.4-liter i-FORCE features three tuning levels that are unique to the model they power. For example, the base Tacoma SR features the 228 horsepower 2.4-liter i-FORCE, while the manual transmission SR features a higher-tuned 270 horsepower 2.4-liter i-FORCE engine.

The third, and most beefy, 2.4-liter i-FORCE offering is the 278 horsepower variant, available for the SR5 grade and up. The various power and driveline options allow buyers to choose the right Tacoma to suit their lifestyle. It also affects the final cost, ensuring that you only pay for the specs you need.

Moving into top-grade territory introduces the i-FORCE MAX powertrain, which stands as the most powerful engine ever placed in a Tacoma, as well as the most available torque in the mid-size pickup segment. This powertrain combines the turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder with a 48-horsepower electric motor integrated into the eight-speed auto transmission. Together, the tandem system produces a respectable 328 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque.

Both rear-wheel drive and part-time four-wheel drive are available depending on the grade you choose, as is a six-speed intelligent manual transmission (iMT) with rev-matching and stall avoidance tech. Shifting is handled by an eight-speed automatic transmission with intelligence on models not equipped with the manual.

Performance Specifications

(Source: Toyota)

Towing Capabilities And Payload Capacity

The towing capabilities received a significant boost thanks in part to the trailering tech being utilized in many modern pickups as well as the Tacoma’s tough, eager spirit. With a maximum available tow capacity of 6,500 pounds and a max 1,710 payload cap, the Tacoma is easily able to haul hefty loads. Available trailer brake controller and tow/haul modes enhance the Taco’s ability to safely haul cargo. Max capacity figures do not apply to all grades and layouts, as some will prove more willing and capable of towing than others. To illustrate, the 4X4 XtraCab models generally tow more than the 4X2 DoubleCab configuration.

The same pattern is present in the powertrain options, as the more powerful the engine, the more weight it can tow. To achieve the max available tow cap, you’ll need to spring for either the SR5 with the 278 horsepower i-FORCE engine, TRD PreRunner, or any XtraCab grade. To capitalize on the max payload, you’ll be looking for a DoubleCab configuration.

(Source: Toyota)

Off-Road Capability

Off-road abilities are a cornerstone of Tacoma’s foundation, with decades of unwavering dedication to adventure and exploration behind the popular pickup. As such, purpose-built models sport specifically tuned components and additions that enhance both the appearance and manners of their respective models. From suspension to unique drive modes, the Tacoma includes an arsenal of trail-conquering weapons.

The TRD Off-Road grade features monotube Bilstein remote reservoir shocks with an end-stop control valve for increased damping forces. The TRD Pro is aimed more toward trophy truck shenanigans and dune hopping, featuring a new FOX QS3 three-way adjustable internal bypass shock with a remote reservoir for improved high-speed off-road performance. FOX internal floating piston (IFP) rear bump stops improve the bottom-out feel for better performance and comfort.

The revered Trailhunter model returns with upgraded suspension that includes Old Man Emu 4X4 suspension by ARB that is tuned for optimal levels of off-road control and load-carrying capabilities. The unique suspension on both the Trailhunter and TRD Pro is aided by forged aluminum upper control arms engineered with specific geometry and articulation to aid the impressive range of motion. The sophisticated suspension is only further enhanced by the refined Multi-terrain select and CRAWL functions that assist in conquering sketchy terrain. An available electronically activated rear locking differential can split the power 50/50 to the rear wheels for ultimate traction.

(Source: Toyota)

Interior Technology And Comfort

Best Interior Features Of The 2024 Toyota Tacoma

• The available 14-inch touchscreen upgrade takes interior tech a step up.
• The TRD Pro interior features the IsoDynamic front seats with unique shock absorbers.
• Unique interior color schemes reflect the attitude of each grade.
• An available JBL sound system upgrade adds premium audio and a Bluetooth speaker.
• Standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster on higher grades.

When you enter the cabin of the 2024 Tacoma, you’ll quickly realize that Toyota spent as much time on the interior design as they did on the exterior. The cohesiveness of rugged nature and tough features trickles over into the shapes and expressions found inside. Multiple interior color layouts expand the personality one is able to apply to their dream pickup. For example, the bright crimson TRD Pro interior contrasts its sporty nature, while the earth-toned Trailhunter’s interior possesses a looming sense of the great outdoors.

Standard fabric-trimmed upholstery adorns the cabin in the lower grades, while the premium grades receive SofTex, a material that resembles leather, minus animal cruelty. Various interior flair, including blacked-out and chrome accents, add more depth of design and detail as well as reflect your personality. Interior packages and upgrades can greatly change the look and feel of the interior and are a great way to change the styling without compromising on features.

Technology

As expected, the tech and entertainment received the 2024 treatment, which includes an available heads-up display and 14-inch touchscreen, as well as the usual options, such as heated and ventilated seating. Some of the upgrades mentioned are standard for certain grades, the Limited grade in particular, as it features most of the top-tier features. Think of the Limited grade as the pinnacle of Tacoma’s luxuries.

Standard Apple and Android Auto connect wirelessly and play through a list of varying speaker options, including a four-speaker, six-speaker, eight-speaker, and the top-of-the-line JBL 10-speaker sound system with subwoofer and amplifier. The JBL system includes a portable JBL FLEX speaker that, when docked inside the Taco, acts as a focal speaker in conjunction with the vehicle’s installed audio system. A wireless charging station is optional, though dual USB-C ports are standard across all grades.

Interior Dimensions

(Source: Toyota)

Safety And Reliability

Built upon the TNGA-F platform, the same one pinning the Tundra, Sequoia, and Land Cruiser, the 2024 Tacoma’s high-strength boxed, steel-ladder frame offers high-grade durability, while the aluminum utilized throughout the construction allows lightweight ability. Frame cross-members are strengthened to increase rigidity and durability as well as to accommodate Toyota’s dealer upgrades. To make matters better, the advanced suspension enhances overall safety and stability by making it easier to gain and maintain control over the Tacoma.

Driver Assistance Features

All grades of the 2024 Tacoma come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, an extensive suite of safety and driver assist features that include most if not all, up-to-date functions. A new addition to the assist features is the available Trailer Back-Up Guidance system, which aids in the overall maneuvering of a hitched trailer. Additionally, the available Straight Path Assist helps when reversing with a trailer connected.

• Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
• Full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control
• Lane tracing assist
• Proactive driving assist
• Trailer Back Up assist
• Straight path assist

IIHS Crash Testing

The 2024 Tacoma has yet to be tested by the IIHS. However, it has been included on the NHTSA’s list of 2024 model-year vehicles for crash testing as part of the agency’s 5-Star Safety Rating system under its New Car Assessment Program. This means that we should be getting feedback regarding the 2024 Tacoma crash test safety in the coming year.

Warranties

Toyota offers one of the better warranties in the industry, considering the 2-year scheduled maintenance and roadside assistance via ToyotaCare. The rest of the warranty agreement is fairly standard, including the basic 3-year/36,000-mile warranty and 60,000-mile powertrain warranty. However, a hefty hybrid battery warranty is included for those interested in the new i-FORCE MAX powertrain.

(Source: Toyota)

Year Make Model Versus Its Competitors

The Toyota Tacoma is a dominant force in the mid-size pickup arena, but that’s not to say there aren’t any competitors. This brings us to the first comparison; the redesigned 2024 Chevrolet Colorado, a hearty workhorse with a sweet off-road variant that is sure to give the Tacoma Trailhunter a run for its money. Next, we compare the Taco to another off-road giant, the Jeep Gladiator.

How The Toyota Tacoma Compares To The Chevrolet Colorado

• 	2024 Toyota Tacoma	2024 Chevrolet Colorado
  Model	Tacoma	2024 Chevrolet Colorado
  Engine:	2.4-L Turbo I-4	2.7-L turbo inline-four
  Torque	317 LB-FT	430 pound-feet @ 3,000 RPM
  Transmission	8-Speed Automatic	Eight-speed automatic
  Driveline	RWD	RWD and 4WD
  MSRP	$31,500 – $52,100	$31,095 – $60,540
  Towing Capacity	6,500 Pounds	7,700 pounds
  Horsepower	278	310 HP @ 5,600 RPM

Both the Tacoma and the Colorado occupy the mid-size pickup segment, but their similarities don’t end there. Both models include specified performance components, mainly suspension-wise, and a turbocharged powertrain. The differences present themselves first in the appearance, as the Colorado is beefier than the Tacoma, and second in their purposes.

The Tacoma is built for fun, plain and simple, with the ability to put in work, primarily on weekend lake trips when hauling the boat around, and off-road adventures that consist of rocky hills and deep mud trenches. The Colorado is a worker’s pickup, a true blue-collar handyman with a dash of fun up its sleeve. The main focus of the mid-size Colorado is to access Chevrolet’s rugged utility in a smaller package.

This hardworking spirit is observed in the max 7,700-pound towing capacity, which out-pulls the Tacoma by over 1,000 pounds. And, when we analyze the off-road Colorado ZR2’s Multimatic DSSV dampers and power-locking front and rear differentials, it becomes apparent that if you work hard, you can play hard, too.

How The Toyota Tacoma Compares To The Jeep Gladiator

• 	2024 Toyota Tacoma	2024 Jeep Gladiator
  Model	Tacoma	2024 Jeep Gladiator
  Engine:	2.4-L Turbo I-4	3.6-L V-6
  Torque	317 LB-FT	260 pound-feet @4,400 RPM
  Transmission	8-Speed Automatic	Six-speed manual and eight-speed automatic
  Driveline	RWD	RWD and 4WD
  MSRP	$31,500 – $52,100	$41,085 – $64,890
  Towing Capacity	6,500 Pounds	7,700 pounds
  Horsepower	278	285 HP @ 6,400

2024 model year received a few minor visual refreshes, but nothing too crazy, as Jeep likes to retain a familiarity between models. However, standard tech, including a large 12.3-inch touchscreen, increases the modern touches.

Sadly, the thirsty and less-than-impressive 3.6-liter V-6 is the only power option for the 2024 model year, which produces fewer horses than most of the competition. However, the superb, bulletproof suspension and off-road components are what Jeep enthusiasts really care about. Able to tow a maximum of 7,700 pounds, the Jeep Gladiator doesn’t let its slightly dated engine hold it back. Plus, aside from the Tacoma, the Jeep Gladiator is the only pickup to offer a standard manual transmission.

How Much Does A 2024 Toyota Tacoma Cost?

The 2024 Tacoma was set to arrive at dealerships in December 2023 for all i-FORCE models, with the i-FORCE MAX hybrid models following in the spring of 2024. Compared to the Chevy Colorado and the Jeep Gladiator, the Tacoma falls right in between in terms of price points, with the Jeep carrying the highest average price tag. However, the top grade Colorado will cost more than the top Tacoma grade.

(Toyota)

Fuel Economy

The EPA has yet to give the 2024 Tacoma a fuel economy rating, though Toyota provides manufacturer estimates based on the testing and trial runs performed by the internal teams. These estimated average around 20 – 23 combined MPG, which is decent considering the competition averages a similar rating. Nevertheless, until actual economy figures are provided by the EPA, our speculation is based on Toyota’s expectations.

GAS/HYBRIDS

Is It Worth Buying The 2024 Toyota Tacoma?

The Tacoma is a sturdy, well-built, modern example of what a true off-road vehicle should be. The economy is respectable for its segments, it features modern amenities and functions, and it pushes the envelope for mid-size pickups, while the price point has remained reasonable since the early days of the Taco. The towing rate is a little underwhelming, although the Tacoma never claimed to lead its class in towing. It simply promised a well-mannered adventure that will keep you coming back for more, which most Tacoma drivers will attest to.

Various grade levels, configurations, layouts, and available upgrades turn the Toyota dealership into a Need For Speed game. With so many varying options, each possessing its own perks, those looking to drive a 2024 Taco will need to consider what rigors their pickup may face and proceed with upgrades from a point of understanding, as the upgrade packages aren’t cheap. With that in mind, the 2024 Tacoma is 100 percent worth a second look, as there’s a reason it has dominated the mid-size pickup segment for almost two decades.