TLDR:
Standard i-FORCE turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine produces up to 278 horsepower, 317 lb.-ft. of torque.
Available i-FORCE MAX turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain produces 326 horsepower, 465 lb.-ft. of torque.
All-new Trailhunter is a factory-developed overlanding rig built from the ground up with the latest integrated off-road equipment from ARB, Old Man Emu, and RIGID.
Baja-inspired TRD Pro debuts segment-first IsoDynamic Performance Seat for enhanced off-road driving control and comfort.
Tacoma adds new XtraCab long bed configuration for enhanced interior functionality and cargo capacity
Available 14-inch touchscreen displays the latest Toyota Audio Multimedia system.
Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 standard on all models.
Designed, engineered, and assembled for North America.
Introducing the 2024 Toyota Tacoma
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma, in all its innovative glory, was unveiled to global attention in the breathtaking locale of Puako, Hawaii, marking the advent of the truck’s fourth iteration which has dominated the mid-size pickup sales charts for almost two decades. This revamped Tacoma is constructed on the sturdy spine of Toyota’s TNGA-F international truck architecture, augmented with the addition of a newly designed multilink rear suspension. Buyers are presented with a choice of two freshly conceived, potent yet fuel-conserving four-cylinder engines, along with the hybrid powerhouse, the i-FORCE MAX, which delivers a whopping 326 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque. Alongside these, Toyota debuts the Trailhunter grade, a meticulously factory-engineered overlander outfitted with quality components from industry leaders like ARB, Old Man Emu, and RIGID.
Committed to a multi-faceted strategy in the pursuit of a carbon-neutral future, the Tacoma i-FORCE MAX represents the newest addition to Toyota’s hybrid roster adorned with the Beyond Zero badge. Currently, Toyota’s lineup includes an impressive array of 15 electrified vehicles for environmentally-conscious customers. Spanning eleven hybrid models, a pair of plug-in hybrids, the cutting-edge bZ4X battery electric vehicle, and the zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell Mirai, Toyota offers an unmatched breadth of options for consumers seeking to minimize their environmental impact.
Toyota Construction & Tacoma Capability
The redesigned Tacoma draws on Toyota’s TNGA-F international truck foundation, which it shares with the revamped Tundra and Sequoia. Emulating its full-sized counterparts, the truck’s chassis employs high-strength steel reinforced with blanking and laser welds, enhancing rigidity beyond its predecessor’s, while weight reduction is achieved through upper-body aluminum utilization. Frame cross members have been reinforced to enhance durability and support Toyota’s range of overlanding gear including rooftop tents and camping refrigerators. The roof comes with integrated attachment points for easy roof rack rails installation across all models, alongside a roof channel sealer ensuring leak-proofing. A new front cross member has been devised for the steering gearbox, amplifying rigidity through added cross member support and boosting steering input and handling. A new high lift jack point is also ingeniously integrated into the rear frame end.
Tacoma’s ride and handling have also been uplifted with the introduction of a multi-link rear suspension, replacing the old model’s leaf springs with a set of coils. Leaf springs, however, are still standard on SR, SR5 XtraCab, and TRD PreRunner models. Further improvements include four-wheel disc brakes for superior braking performance, larger front brake packages on TRD models and above, and even larger rear brake packages for i-FORCE MAX equipped TRD models. An electronic parking brake enables low-speed radar cruise control and a brake hold function, while electric power steering improves the steering feel and integrates added safety and convenience features.
Tacoma now boasts grade-specific suspension tuning. For example, TRD Sport features red TRD sport-tuned shocks for a sharper response. TRD Off-Road grade is equipped with monotube Bilstein remote reservoir shocks for improved wheel travel and heat dissipation and includes an end stop control valve (ESCV) for increased damping force as the suspension nears full bound stroke. TRD Pro is kitted out with FOX’s new QS3 three-way adjustable internal bypass shocks with remote reservoirs for enhanced high-speed off-road performance and FOX Internal Floating Piston (IFP) rear bump stops for improved bottoming out. The Trailhunter grade comes equipped with a new Old Man Emu (OME) 4×4 Suspension by ARB, tuned for optimum off-road control and load-bearing capability. The Limited grade introduces a novel Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system that continuously adjusts damping forces in response to changing road conditions, resulting in a smooth, luxurious ride for the new Tacoma.
The Tacoma’s maximum towing capacity peaks at 6,500 lbs. for the SR5 i-FORCE and TRD PreRunner XtraCab grades, and the maximum payload jumps to 1,709 lbs. on the TRD Off-Road. A slew of features including a trailer brake controller, trailer backup guide, and digital display mirror assist in making towing more manageable. Trailer Back-Up Guidance aids in overall trailer maneuvering, while the available Straight Path Assist feature helps maintain a straight line during reversing. A 360-degree camera system provides a top-down view for better visibility, covering blind spots around the truck and trailer. With Toyota’s integrated trailer brake controller, the Blind Spot Monitor can detect blind spots for both the truck and certain trailers.
Further simplifying truck duty, bed volume has seen a 7-percent increase, beneficial for gear loading under an optional tonneau cover. The aluminum tailgate boasts an optional power open/close function with jam protection and a quick release/close button integrated within either taillight. Gas grades provide a 400W AC inverter outlet in the bed and at the rear of the center console, while i-FORCE MAX grades come standard with a 2400W AC inverter. 12V DC power access is also available in the bed and cabin. The Trailhunter grade introduces an in-bed, integrated high-output air compressor, invaluable for rapidly re-inflating large-diameter tires after deflation for off-road expeditions that may last days or even weeks.
In terms of cabin amenities, the Tacoma doesn’t skimp. The cabin offers 12V DC power access points, catering to on-the-go charging needs for devices. Meanwhile, for those looking for a more substantial power supply, the gas grades come equipped with a 400W AC inverter outlet at the rear of the center console and in the truck bed, while the i-FORCE MAX grades step it up a notch by standardizing a powerful 2400W AC inverter.
The aluminum tailgate offers an optional power open and close function with built-in jam protection for convenience and safety. In addition, a quick release and close button have been cleverly integrated within the taillight assembly, adding a touch of innovation to this practical feature.
Lastly, the bed volume has been increased by 7 percent, providing more space for necessary gear and items. This additional volume proves incredibly useful, particularly when paired with an optional tonneau cover, ensuring your cargo is well-protected from the elements. The culmination of these thoughtful features and upgrades truly encapsulates Toyota’s commitment to delivering a truck that blends utility, comfort, and innovation, making the new Tacoma a highly anticipated release in the mid-size pickup market.
2024 & Beyond Tacoma Engines
The Tacoma presents a choice of two potent yet efficient 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder powertrains. For the base SR grades, this engine generates 228 horsepower and 243 lb.-ft. of torque. For all remaining grades, pairing the engine with the new eight-speed intelligent electronically controlled automatic transmission (ECT-i) pushes power figures to 278 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque. Gearheads, rejoice: a six-speed intelligent manual transmission (iMT2) equipped with automatic rev-matching and anti-stall mechanisms is on offer, enabling manual models to output 270 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque.
Breaking new ground in the mid-size, body-on-frame pickup segment is Tacoma’s pioneering i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, marking the most potent propulsion system ever available on a Tacoma. Offered on TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, and coming standard on the TRD Pro and top-tier Trailhunter models, the i-FORCE MAX couples the 2.4-liter engine with a 48-hp electric motor nestled within the eight-speed transmission, drawing power from a 1.87-kWh NiMH battery pack. This configuration produces an impressive total system output of 326 horsepower and a substantial 465 lb.-ft. of torque, nearly twice the torque of the previous generation’s V-6 engine. With the i-FORCE MAX, the Tacoma can conquer an 8-percent interstate incline without downshifting, making long journeys more enjoyable than ever. Fuel consumption figures for all engines will be released closer to their respective launch dates.
Rear-wheel-drive Tacomas are equipped with an automatic limited-slip differential (Auto LSD), while four-wheel-drive variants come with an electronically controlled two-speed transfer case with high/low range, Active Traction Control (A-TRAC), and Auto LSD. An electronic locking rear differential is a standard feature on TRD PreRunner, TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter grades. The refreshed, premium Limited grade now offers a full-time four-wheel-drive system with a center locking differential on i-FORCE MAX models.
All-New Tacoma Offroad Abilities
Tacoma’s formidable off-road prowess is taken a notch higher in this new generation, positioning it as the definitive vehicle for thrilling escapades. A new optional front stabilizer bar disconnect feature enhances flexibility at the mere press of a button. When the front stabilizer bar is disengaged, Tacoma’s articulation rises by 10 percent in comparison to the preceding model. This electronic stabilizer bar disconnect function is also compatible with Toyota-endorsed lift kits.
On the TRD Pro, the Tacoma boasts up to a 33.8-degree approach, 23.5-degree breakover, and 25.7-degree departure angles when not equipped with the tow package. The TRD Pro’s ground clearance peaks at an impressive 11 inches. Thanks to the host of cameras fitted on the new Tacoma, drivers of the TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter variants can preemptively spot potential off-road obstacles via the Multi-Terrain Monitor, displayed clearly on the optional 14-inch touchscreen. For precarious situations, the Tacoma provides standard front and optional rear recovery hooks and underbody armor.
The Multi-Terrain Select, now operable in both 4WD-High and 4WD-Low, offers customizable settings to manage wheel spin on diverse terrain, such as Mud, Dirt, and Sand. Furthermore, Tacoma introduces the new, significantly quieter CRAWL Control function. This feature acts as a low-speed, off-road cruise control, enabling the driver to concentrate on steering while the system maintains one of five selectable speeds. When traction is critically low, the optional electronically activated locking rear differential can distribute power evenly to the rear wheels. Additionally, Downhill Assist Control, another off-road feature, aids the driver in managing descents by moderating vehicle speed. Tacomas equipped with manual transmission comes standard with a clutch start cancel that permits the truck to start in gear, sparing the driver the need to press the clutch in demanding off-road start situations.
Introducing Tacoma Trailhunter
The Tacoma debuts the all-new Trailhunter grade, further augmenting its formidable lineup of robust Toyota Trucks. Toyota has always been a premier choice for overlanders, given its legendary quality, durability, and dependability, and now, enthusiasts can purchase a factory-developed overlander directly from Toyota. To realize the Trailhunter, Toyota partnered with esteemed Australian-based ARB to co-create Old Man Emu (OME) position-sensitive 2.5-inch forged monotube shocks with rear external piggyback-style remote reservoirs, a rugged rear bumper, sturdy rear recovery points, and a bed utility bar with detachable MOLLE panels. ARB engineering even collaborated on-site at Toyota with the project development team to co-create the Trailhunter. Whether you opt for the 5- or 6-foot bed Double Cab configurations, hard-core overlanders can take their Trailhunters to new heights with optional light- or heavy-duty variants of a full ARB bed rack to accommodate extra gear like rooftop tents, canopies, or a camp shower.
The OME shocks, along with the 33-inch Goodyear Territory R/T tires, lift the Trailhunter an extra two inches in the front and one and a half inches in the rear. A high-clearance trail exhaust tip is also standard, as is a low-profile high-mount Trailhunter Air Intake that is directed up the passenger-side A-pillar to draw in purer air to the i-FORCE MAX. For enhanced protection, the Trailhunter features rock rails and numerous hot-stamped high-strength steel skid plates, providing serious off-grid-adventure capabilities right off the factory floor.
The Trailhunter is further equipped with a bronze-colored “TOYOTA” heritage-inspired grille with an integrated 20-inch LED light bar, complemented by white/yellow color-switching RIGID LED fog lamps. The Trailhunter’s bed is strategically lit to avoid dark patches, and integrated bedside scene lights illuminate the area around the bed, facilitating night-time camp setups. A robust 2400W AC inverter supplies power to two locations in the cabin and the rear deck where both 12V and USB outlets can be found to power devices such as an ARB Fridge Freezer. Trailhunter also comes pre-wired for add-ons with three auxiliary toggle switches on the dashboard.
Alongside Toyota Genuine parts and accessories, the recently launched Associated Accessory Products program (AAP) offers additional accessories to allow customers to personalize their Tacoma Trailhunter directly from participating Toyota dealerships. The AAP ecosystem will continue to develop over time and currently includes over 100 accessories such as off-road recovery gear, rack attachment brackets for storage gear, outdoor sporting equipment carriers, and more. Customers can conveniently incorporate these products into their monthly payments, and they aren’t exclusive to the Trailhunter, making accessorizing any Tacoma through Toyota easier than ever.
TRD Pro: the standard just got better
While the Trailhunter is specifically tailored for off-grid overlanding exploits, the Tacoma TRD Pro enhances its reputable high-speed, desert-racing characteristics for its latest generation. Lightweight red aluminum front TRD upper control arms fine-tune front geometry and minimize unsprung weight, while Fox internal bypass 2.5-inch manual mode Quick Switch 3 (QS3) shocks provide adjustability to three distinct settings via dials on the shock bodies for fine-tuning compression damping. Constructed around the new multi-link rear suspension, FOX Internal Floating Piston (IFP) bump stops assist in mitigating the harshest terrains.
Adopting a more imposing presence than ever, the TRD Pro stands two inches higher at the front and an inch and a half at the rear, and is three inches broader than a Tacoma SR5. Black flow-formed TRD wheels are cloaked in 33-inch Goodyear Territory R/T tires. The standard i-FORCE MAX engine of the TRD Pro breathes more effectively, thanks to a TRD performance air intake and TRD cat-back dual-tipped exhaust. An integrated LED light bar, paired with the LED headlights, enhances beam pattern targeting for a balanced light output with a considerable range. A set of RIGID white LED fog lamps boost visibility in adverse weather conditions. The TRD Pro also features a high-clearance ARB rear metal bumper with red recovery hooks and an aluminum TRD front skid plate.
Exclusive to the new TRD Pro is an industry-first IsoDynamic Performance Seat. This groundbreaking feature aims to provide a smooth, confidence-inducing ride for the driver and front passenger, with the primary objective of stabilizing the driver’s field of vision to enhance focus, comfort, and mitigate fatigue during challenging trail drives. The IsoDynamic Performance Seat utilizes an air-over-oil shock absorber system, allowing for vertical and lateral seat movements simultaneously to dampen body motion and stabilize the head and neck, maintaining alignment with the spine. The dampening effect can be adjusted based on body weight and occupant preference, and if needed, can be bypassed via levers on the seatbacks.
Interior Technology
The completely revamped Tacoma comes loaded with the latest technology and information displays, significantly transforming the interior experience. A fresh 8-inch or optional 14-inch multimedia touchscreen showcases Toyota’s newest Audio Multimedia system, first introduced in the 2022 Tundra pickup. This system, conceptualized and executed by Toyota’s Connected Technologies team in Texas, supports wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, beautifully complementing the available Qi wireless charging pad with enhanced power output. On the right side of the display, a USB-C data and charging port is incorporated, with dual USB-C charging ports included for the front row and optionally for the rear passengers. Depending on the model, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with four unique styles or a 7-inch gauge cluster is standard. A Smart Key System with push-button start comes standard across all grades.
With an active Remote Connect trial or subscription, an optional Digital Key can pair with compatible smartphones, granting vehicle access, tailgate operation, and vehicle ignition (4G network dependent). This Digital Key can also be shared remotely, offering more control over vehicle access without the need to hand over a physical key. Furthermore, a Smart Card key is available, providing the convenience of a credit card-sized smart key that’s easy to carry anywhere.
Tacoma’s latest generation optimizes its interior space. Gas models boast a three-fold increase in under-seat storage space compared to the current-generation truck. The rear seatback can also fold down flat to serve as an additional cargo area. The instrument panel incorporates a shelf for passengers to place their phones or other small items. MOLLE panels on the center console and door panels add to the storage versatility. Rubber grips are positioned on the passenger side of the center console, all doors, and the front passenger side. Double Cab models also feature assist handles on the B-pillar overhead. A concealed pocket on the driver’s side dashboard features a QR code that directs owners to the Toyota website, providing dimensions for designing and 3D printing custom accessories like a lantern, multitool, or toolkit.
Music enthusiasts will appreciate Tacoma’s new premium JBL® audio upgrade, featuring a ten-speaker system, including a new externally coupled subwoofer for enhanced output and a JBL® FLEX portable speaker. When docked on the dash, the JBL® FLEX charges and functions as the center channel speaker. When undocked, the JBL® FLEX Bluetooth speaker provides up to six hours of playtime, can pair with other Toyota JBL® FLEX Portable Speakers, and can withstand submersion in up to three feet of water.
Safety Features
Every 2024 Tacoma model comes equipped with the advanced Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, an inclusive package of Toyota’s active safety and convenience technologies. Enhanced by more refined detection sensors, the system now brings novel safety attributes to the Tacoma range. The features included in the package are:
Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
Lane Tracing Assist
Road Sign Assist
Automatic High Beams
Proactive Driving Assist
Proactive Driving Assist, a new introduction to Toyota Safety Sense, works in combination with the vehicle’s camera and radar to deliver gentle braking into curves or gentle braking and/or steering, aiming to assist with maintaining distance from a preceding vehicle, pedestrian, or cyclist. However, it’s important to note that Proactive Driving Assist isn’t a replacement for the Pre-Collision System and operates under different circumstances.
The enhancements for TSS 3.0 include:
Improved system sensors in the Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, which now offers enhanced intersection support, along with detection of a motorcyclist in addition to pedestrian and bicyclist detection.
Lane Departure Alert now offers Steering Assist, with augmented lane recognition, and can detect specific 3D objects, such as guardrails, to assist in defining the lane.
Full-Speed Range capability is now part of the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, which includes an additional fourth following distance setting and can detect multiple preceding vehicles and vehicles in neighboring lanes for smoother, more natural speed adjustments.
Lane Tracing Assist, a newcomer to Tacoma, requires detectable lane markings to function. Along with lane centering, the system also facilitates safe distance from vehicles being passed in neighboring lanes.
Emergency Driving Stop System is a new feature of Lane Tracing Assist designed to track drivers’ inputs and discern if they are unresponsive. If the driver does not respond to alerts, the system is designed to bring the vehicle to a stop.
Road Sign Assist is designed to recognize speed limit signs, stop signs, ‘Do Not Enter’ signs, yield signs, and certain warning signs and then display an icon of the recognized sign on the Multi-Information Display (MID).
Other safety features available include the Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), which alerts you of vehicles approaching or positioned in the adjacent lanes, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) for added reassurance by detecting vehicles approaching from either side while reversing and warning you both visually and audibly. Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) also comes as standard.
Chris’ Reaction
Totally subjective, but I think the TRD Sport is the best-looking variant of the new Tacoma lineup. The Trailhunter is impressive, but not my cup of tea visually. The Tacoma was starting to show its age. Even brand-new examples of the Tacoma can trace their roots to the 2nd generation of the truck that went on sale in 2005. Hopefully, an all-new 4Runner is next! I can’t wait to start seeing 2024 Tacomas out on the trails. With a factory effort and ARB being on board already, we’re going to see some Tacomas doing amazing things in the dirt, sand, and mud!
Ross’ Reaction
It’s about time that Toyota stepped it up, but they’re not out of the weeds just yet. The 2nd Generation Tacoma felt like a phoned-in effort, with the 3.5L V6 and 6-speed automatic combo being lackluster, frustrating, and underwhelming; meanwhile, the rear seat continued to offer poor space and the driver’s seating position was uncomfortable after only a short stint behind the wheel. While the new Tacoma doesn’t seem to remedy the spaciousness issue, especially with the rear legroom-eating ISO seats in the TRD Pro, it does seem to do good upon everything else. The powertrains are extremely promising, the off-road kit is extensive, and the fully boxed frame (derived from the Tundra’s) all give us hope for a great new Tacoma, something we haven’t had in quite a while. We’re holding out hope that it’s better than the third-generation Tundra, as it was nowhere near as good as it could have been, but with the new 4Runner and Lexus GX on the horizon, there’s a bit more riding on the Taco’s shoulders.