2024 Toyota Tacoma Overview
The Toyota Tacoma is a midsize pickup truck that has earned a legendary reputation for its rugged durability, off-road capability, and reliable performance. Introduced in 1995, the Tacoma quickly became the go-to choice for drivers who needed a versatile truck for both work and play.
Known for its robust build quality and incredibly strong resale value, the Tacoma offers a variety of trims and configurations, suitable for everything from daily commuting to serious off-roading adventures. Whether you’re hauling gear, towing trailers, or navigating challenging terrains, the Tacoma stands out as a reliable icon in the midsize truck segment.
What’s New in 2024
2024 is a year of massive change as Toyota positions itself to defend its dominance against Ford and GM. Toyota has made bold moves toward a more future-proof truck:
- New Platform: Now mounted on the same TNGA-F global truck chassis as the Tundra and Sequoia.
- Hybrid Power: Introduction of the i-FORCE MAX hybrid engine for efficiency and power.
- Suspension Upgrade: A switch to coil-spring rear suspension on most trims for better ride comfort.
- New Trims: The introduction of the rugged Trailhunter and the return of the PreRunner.
With 8 distinct models to choose from, there is a Tacoma for everyone. But with these upgrades comes a new price tag. Is it worth it?
- Quick Verdict: Is the New Tacoma Worth the Price?
- Road Test: Driving Impressions
- Engine & Powertrain: i-FORCE vs. i-FORCE MAX Hybrid
- Interior Design, Comfort, & Technology
- Trim Level Breakdown: Which One Should You Buy?
- Competitor Comparison: Tacoma vs. Rivals
- Real Owner Reviews & Common Complaints
- Safety Ratings & Features (TSS 3.0)
- 2024 Tacoma vs. Used 3rd Gen: Which is Better?
- FAQs
Photo by Toyota
Quick Verdict: Is the New Tacoma Worth the Price? (Pros & Cons)
Before diving into the details, here is a summary based on expert road tests and initial owner feedback.
Pros
- Hybrid Power: The most powerful Tacoma ever. The electric motor delivers near-instant, diesel-like torque (465 lb-ft) starting at just 1,700 RPM, creating acceleration that reviewers call “utterly addicting.”
- Ride Quality: A game-changer for comfort. The new multi-link coil rear suspension banishes the old “truck jitters,” delivering SUV-like refinement on the highway and superior articulation on the trail. Need a pure workhorse? The SR (XtraCab) and PreRunner retain classic leaf springs for maximum durability under heavy loads.
- Manual Transmission: A refreshing return to driver engagement. It feels mechanical and sturdy—exactly what you want in a truck. With iMT auto rev-matching, it offers effortless downshifts and a level of connection to the terrain that “no crawl control can replicate.”
- Tech: A massive digital glow-up. The available 14-inch high-definition touchscreen dominates the cabin with a crisp, tablet-like experience, while lower trims receive a capable 8-inch display. Best of all? Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the board, finally letting you ditch the cables and enjoy the snappy new Toyota Multimedia interface.
Cons
- Sticker Shock: Prices have jumped significantly. Top trims like the TRD Pro now push past $65,000—dangerously close to full-size Tundra territory.
- Hybrid is for Power, Not MPG: Don’t expect Prius-like efficiency. The i-FORCE MAX is tuned for torque, offering only marginal fuel economy gains (approx. 22-24 MPG) over the standard engine.
- Cramped Quarters & Lost Storage: Rear legroom remains tight for adults. Worse, opting for the Hybrid deletes the valuable under-seat storage bins to make room for the battery pack.
- Rougher Soundtrack: While powerful, the new 4-cylinder turbo lacks the smooth, quiet refinement of the old V6, often sounding coarse or “truck-like” under heavy acceleration.
- Overzealous Safety Tech: Some owners report that the TSS 3.0 system—specifically the Driver Monitor and Proactive Driving Assist—can be intrusive, beeping or braking too aggressively in normal driving conditions.
2024 Tacoma Road Test: Driving Impressions
What is it like to actually drive the 2024 Tacoma? The change is immediately noticeable.
On-Road Comfort: Coil Springs vs Leaf Springs
Dropped onto the TNGA-F truck platform (shared with Tundra), Toyota married high-strength steel to lightweight aluminum. The most significant change is the switch from leaf springs to multi-link coil rear suspension on most upper-level trims. As MotorTrend reviewers found out, the ride is far more composed, and landings from jumps don’t knock your teeth out anymore.
Off-Road Performance: TRD Pro & Trailhunter
The real test comes when the wheels leave the pavement. With the new Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism (SDM), you can increase suspension articulation with the touch of a button.
- TRD Pro: Designed for high-speed desert running. Features TRD-tuned FOX QS3 internal bypass shocks with adjustable dampening knobs to dial in your ride.
- Trailhunter: Built for overlanding and heavy loads. Equipped with Old Man Emu (OME) 2.5-inch forged monotube shocks and a high-clearance exhaust.
Manual Transmission Review: Is the 6-Speed Worth It?
In a world of increasing automation, the Tacoma’s manual is a refreshing reminder of driver engagement. It feels mechanical and sturdy—exactly what you want in a truck.
Thanks to iMT (Intelligent Manual Transmission), you get auto rev-matching for effortless downshifts and anti-stall technology that makes rock crawling easier. As one reviewer noted, “Having a clutch gives a level of control over the terrain that no crawl control can replicate.”
Photo by Toyota
Engine & Powertrain: i-FORCE vs. i-FORCE MAX Hybrid
Toyota has moved away from the V6. For 2024, the powertrain lineup is simplified but potent, centering around a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder.
2.4L Turbo Performance (Standard i-FORCE)
The base engine is far from basic. In the SR5 and above, it produces 278 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque. Owners report that it feels much punchier than the outgoing V6, thanks to the turbocharger providing peak torque much lower in the RPM range, making highway passing and city driving effortless.
Hybrid MPG & Towing Capacity
Standard on TRD Pro and Trailhunter, this hybrid powertrain is designed for power, not just efficiency. It pumps out 326 hp and a massive 465 lb-ft of torque.
The electric motor delivers near-instant, diesel-like torque starting at just 1,700 RPM, creating acceleration that reviewers call “utterly addicting.”
Towing & Efficiency: While the hybrid boosts power significantly, fuel economy sees a modest bump to an estimated 22/24/23 MPG. However, it excels at towing, offering a maximum capacity of 6,000 to 6,500 lbs (depending on trim) with much less strain on the engine compared to the non-hybrid version.
| Trim | Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Est. MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SR | 2.4L Turbo | 228 | 243 | 19/24/21 |
| SR5 / Sport | 2.4L Turbo | 278 | 317 | 19/24/21 |
| TRD Pro (Hybrid) | 2.4L Turbo Hybrid | 326 | 465 | 22/24/23 |
Interior Design, Comfort, & Technology
Compared to the dated cabin of the previous generation, the 2024 Tacoma feels lightyears ahead. Toyota has completely overhauled the interior, balancing modern tech with rugged functionality.
Cabin Space & Rear Legroom
Toyota listened to truck owners: Real buttons and knobs remain. Unlike many modern vehicles that hide controls in screens, the Tacoma keeps physical dials for volume and climate, allowing you to make adjustments without taking your eyes off the trail.
The front seats are wide and supportive. However, the rear seat remains a tight squeeze for adults.
Warning for TRD Pro buyers: The massive IsoDynamic performance seats look incredible but consume valuable rear legroom, making the back seat best suited for gear or small children.
Infotainment System & Tech Features
The standard 8-inch screen is solid, but the available 14-inch multimedia display is the real showstopper. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the board.
Upper trims feature a JBL audio system with a unique detachable portable speaker embedded in the dash. One minor gripe reported by owners is that the wireless charging pad has an awkward angle, sometimes causing phones to slide out of position or stop charging.
Photo by Toyota
Trim Level Breakdown: Which One Should You Buy?
With 8 distinct trims, choosing the right Tacoma can be confusing. We’ve broken them down into three categories to help you decide.
SR & SR5: The Value Workhorses
For those who need a truck for work or daily driving without breaking the bank. The SR is a basic work truck, often with leaf springs (XtraCab). The SR5 is the volume seller, adding coil springs (Double Cab) and essential tech like Blind Spot Monitoring. It’s the sensible choice for most buyers.
TRD Sport & Off-Road: The Sweet Spot
This is where most buyers should look. The TRD Sport is tuned for on-road handling with a hood scoop and 18-inch wheels. The TRD Off-Road is widely considered the best value in the lineup, offering Bilstein shocks, a locking rear differential, and Multi-Terrain Select for serious trail capability without the TRD Pro price tag.
TRD Pro & Trailhunter: The Ultimate Off-Roaders
If budget is no issue, these are the halo models. The Trailhunter is a factory-built overlanding rig with ARB armor and OME suspension. The TRD Pro is a high-speed desert runner with FOX shocks and those wild IsoDynamic seats. Both come standard with the powerful Hybrid engine.
2024 Tacoma Specs & Pricing Chart
| Trim | Original MSRP* | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| SR | $31,500 | Work truck spec, Leaf springs (XtraCab). |
| SR5 | $36,200 | Coil springs (Double Cab), 17-inch alloy wheels. |
| TRD PreRunner | $38,100 | RWD XtraCab only, Locking rear diff. |
| TRD Sport | $39,400 | Sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels, Manual option. |
| TRD Off-Road | $41,800 | Best Value. Bilstein shocks, Locking rear diff, Manual option. |
| Limited | $52,100 | Luxury focus, Adaptive suspension, Power running boards. |
| Trailhunter | $64,395 | Overlanding rig, ARB suspension, Steel bumpers. |
| TRD Pro | $65,395 | Baja racer, IsoDynamic seats, FOX shocks. |
*Note: Prices listed are the original 2024 MSRP and do not reflect current used market values.
Competitor Comparison: Tacoma vs. Colorado, Ranger & Gladiator
The mid-size truck market is fiercer than ever. Here is how the high-performance Tacoma TRD Pro stacks up against its main off-road rivals: the Chevy Colorado ZR2, Ford Ranger Raptor, and Jeep Gladiator.
| Model | Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Est. Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tacoma TRD Pro | 2.4L Hybrid Turbo | 326 hp | 465 lb-ft | ~$65,395 |
| Chevy Colorado ZR2 | 2.7L Turbo HO | 310 hp | 430 lb-ft | ~$48,395 |
| Ford Ranger Raptor | 3.0L Twin Turbo V6 | 405 hp | 430 lb-ft | ~$55,620 |
| Jeep Gladiator Rubicon | 3.6L V6 | 285 hp | 260 lb-ft | ~$52,995 |
*Prices are estimated starting MSRPs for competitive off-road trims.
Real Owner Reviews & Common Complaints
What are real owners saying? We gathered feedback from forums and initial owners to see beyond the specs.
The Good (Owner Experiences)
A 2024 Limited Owner: Describes the truck as “fun to drive and quiet.” He notes the driver’s position is very comfortable and the Sport+ mode makes for a peppy engine response.
An SR Double Cab Owner: Cross-shopped the Ranger but settled on the Tacoma. He says the “engine and transmission are wonderfully tuned,” vastly superior to the clunkiness of the outgoing V6. He rates the seat comfort equal to his BMW M3.
The Bad (Complaints)
A TRD Sport Owner: Hates the auto start/stop system (a common complaint across the industry). He also found the auto braking system too sensitive (“touchy”) and chose to disconnect it.
Common Critique: Multiple owners mention the fuel tank is too small (approx. 300 miles range) for long trips, and the rear seat remains tight for adults compared to full-size trucks.
Safety Ratings & Features (TSS 3.0)
Safety is a priority for the new platform. The NHTSA gave the 2024 Tacoma a 4 Star overall rating, with a perfect 5 stars in side-barrier crash tests.
Standard Safety Tech
Every 2024 Tacoma, regardless of trim, comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. This suite includes:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range)
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Proactive Driving Assist (New for 2024)
- Road Sign Assist
2024 Tacoma vs. Used 3rd Gen: Which is the Better Buy?
With the price of a well-equipped 2024 Tacoma TRD Off-Road pushing past $50,000 (after fees and options), many buyers are asking: Is it smarter to buy a used 3rd Gen (2016-2023) instead?
Price Comparison: New vs. Used
The biggest factor is value. By choosing a low-mileage 3rd Gen model, you can save thousands of dollars—money that can be put toward upgrades, modifications, or your next adventure.
| Generation | Model Year | Est. Price (TRD Off-Road) | Engine |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4th Gen (New) | 2024 | $48,000 – $52,000+ | 2.4L Turbo (4-cyl) |
| 3rd Gen (Used) | 2020-2022 | $34,000 – $40,000 | 3.5L V6 (Nat-Asp) |
| Savings | – | $10,000+ Savings | – |
Why a Used Tacoma Still Makes Sense in 2026
It’s not just about the price. Many truck enthusiasts prefer the 3rd Generation for its mechanical simplicity and proven track record.
- Proven V6 Reliability: The naturally aspirated 3.5L V6 is legendary for longevity. No turbos means fewer complex parts to fail over time.
- Endless Modifications: The aftermarket for 3rd Gen Tacomas is massive. Bumpers, lifts, and racks are readily available and affordable.
- No “First Year” Bugs: The 2024 model is a complete redesign, which often comes with first-year manufacturing glitches. The late-model 3rd Gens are refined and bulletproof.
Want the best of both worlds? If you love the reliability of the older Tacoma but want a unique look, check out the Renoca Windansea. This exclusive retro-mod build from Flex combines classic Land Cruiser-inspired styling with the bulletproof performance of a pre-owned Tacoma.
Browse our inventory of new and used Tacomas:
Tacoma Available Now
Conclusion
The new 2024 Tacoma is a technological marvel that reclaims its spot at the top of the midsize truck hierarchy. With the hybrid i-FORCE MAX engine and TRD capabilities, it dominates the trails.
However, for those nostalgic for the simpler, naturally aspirated V6 era, or those on a budget, the previous generation remains an incredibly smart buy.
If you’d like more information on the new Tacoma, used options, or the Renoca Windansea, contact FLEX Automotive today.
FAQs
What is the fuel economy of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma?
The 2.4L turbo gets an estimated 19/24/21 MPG. The hybrid i-FORCE MAX improves slightly to 22/24/23 MPG.
What is the towing capacity?
The max towing capacity is 6,500 pounds when properly equipped.
What engine options are available?
Two options: the standard i-FORCE 2.4L turbo (228-278 hp) and the i-FORCE MAX 2.4L turbo hybrid (326 hp).
