2024 Toyota Tacoma: Five Things to Know
Toyota has finally unveiled the new Tacoma which has undergone a well-deserved makeover. In addition to its reworked styling, the popular midsize pickup sees its V6 engine replaced by a pair of turbocharged four-cylinder engines, and one of them is a hybrid. The cabin has been extensively upgraded with new screens, new technologies and a more rugged design. An overlanding-oriented TrailHunter variant has also been added to the line-up.
The new Tacoma is available in SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, Trailhunter and TRD Pro variants in Canada.
- Also: Toyota Finally Unveils Full 2024 Tacoma Specs and Details
- Also: 2024 Toyota Tacoma: Here’s What We Know So Far
Here are five things you should know about Toyota's new Tacoma.
The 2024 Tacoma is available in several configurations
Physically, the Tacoma borrows a selection of features from the Tundra, such as the headlamps and taillight designs. And, as on the Tundra, the tailgate can be opened by pressing a button integrated into the taillight to facilitate loading when you've got your hands full. 5- and 6-foot beds are still on the list of possibilities, as is the four-door double cab. The two-door XtraCab is making a comeback this year.
WATCH: 2024 Toyota Tacoma Presentation
The Tacoma will be offered in 4x2 and 4x4 configurations in the U.S. In Canada, only the 4x4 version will be available. Towing capacity is rated at 6,500 lbs, depending on the model, while payload has been increased by 1,709 lbs. All Tacoma variants except the entry-level XtraCab SR5 model come with a new rear multi-link suspension configuration that replaces the outgoing model's leaf spring setup.
The 2024 Tacoma offers two new powertrains, including a hybrid (and a manual gearbox!)
Under the hood, the trusty 3.5-litre V6 has been retired and replace by a choice of two turbocharged four-cylinder engines. The first is the 2.4-litre i-Force with an output of 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. It can be mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic gearbox. Performance is slightly reduced with the manual gearbox (8 hp and 7 lb-ft less torque), and only the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road models can be fitted with the manual.
The second engine is the i-Force MAX. It combines the 2.4-litre turbocharged engine with an eight-speed transmission that integrates a 48-hp electric motor connected to a 1.87 kWh battery. Combined output is 326 hp, while torque ranks in at 465 lb-ft. The manual gearbox is not offered with this powertrain.
The 2024 Tacoma Features a Redesigned Interior
With the vast majority of pickup trucks in the midsize segment now offering a lot more comfort and technology, the Tacoma had to reinvent itself completely in this regard. In addition to the improvements in terms style and ergonomics, the Tacoma gets Toyota’s latest in terms of infotainment interface. Base models get an 8-inch screen, while more upscale variants get an oversized 14-inch screen. A 7-inch digital instrument cluster sits behind the steering wheel on base models, but a 12.3-inch cluster is standard on the upper variants.
The 2024 Tacoma’s TRD Pro Variant Gets More Aggressive
The TRD Pro variant sits at the top of the range as the off-road . It is powered by the i-Force Max hybrid engine mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox that channels power to a standard electronic locking rear differential. A Fox suspension with three-position adjustable internal bypass valve at the front and independent suspensions with auxiliary tanks in the rear to ensure optimal performance in the trails.
An assortment of skid plates are fitted underneath the vehicle, in addition to a set of 33-inch Goodyear Territory R/T tires. Inside, the TRD Pro model innovates with IsoDynamic seats equipped with shock absorbers to counterbalance body movements and stabilize the driver's and passenger's field of vision while making off-road escapades more comfortable.
The 2024 Tacoma Has an All-New TrailHunter Variant
A new addition to the Tacoma line-up this year is the overlanding-ready TrailHunter model. It boasts a distinctive look that includes functional elements such as a snorkel-type air intake along the A-pillar, a body-mounted roll bar, exclusive wheels, skid plates and more.
Toyota has given the TrailHunter variant an Old Man EMU (OME) suspension developed by renowned Australian firm ARB, and a stabilizer bar that can be disconnected at the front. A 2400W AC converter, an integrated air compressor, and a roof rack designed for cargo or a tent are some of the features included to allow the most daring drivers to venture out into the wild.
Models equipped with the i-Force engine will be delivered towards the end of 2023, while those with the i-Force MAX hybrid will arrive in the spring of 2024. Prices will be announced in the coming months.