Toyota Tacoma
2024-present
The 2024 Tacoma combines Toyota's reputation for durability with modern truck amenities and capability. It offers genuine off-road prowess while remaining practical for everyday use, appealing to both work and recreation users.
Quick Take
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma represents a complete redesign of Toyota's mid-size pickup truck. It features a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine, improved interior technology, and enhanced off-road capabilities across multiple trim levels.
Best For
Key Strength
Off-Road Dominance
Watch For
Underwhelming Powertrain
The Story
Heritage & Legacy
Building on decades of Tacoma success, this fourth-generation model maintains the truck's reputation for reliability and off-road competence. The Tacoma has long been America's best-selling mid-size pickup, trusted by outdoor enthusiasts and contractors alike.
Design Philosophy
Toyota focused on creating a more refined and capable truck without sacrificing the rugged character that defines the Tacoma. The design emphasizes functionality with improved aerodynamics, better interior space utilization, and enhanced off-road geometry.
The Driving Experience
Engine Character
The new 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder delivers smooth, linear power with improved fuel efficiency over the previous V6. It provides adequate torque for towing and hauling while maintaining Toyota's reputation for long-term reliability and durability.
Chassis Dynamics
The Tacoma offers confident on-road handling with a focus on off-road capability across various terrain types. Multiple drive modes and available advanced four-wheel-drive systems provide excellent traction and control in challenging conditions.
Sound Signature
The turbocharged engine produces a subdued, workmanlike sound that's refined for daily driving yet purposeful under load.
Strengths & Tradeoffs
Defining Strengths
The Tacoma's advanced 4WD system with electronic locking rear differential and Crawl Control makes it exceptionally capable on challenging terrain. Multi-Terrain Select optimizes traction for various surfaces, giving it a clear advantage over competitors in serious off-road situations.
Few trucks offer the aftermarket ecosystem that the Tacoma enjoys, with companies like ARB, Toytec, and Icon developing extensive product lines. From mild lift kits to full long-travel suspension systems, the modification possibilities are virtually endless for both aesthetic and performance upgrades.
Honest Tradeoffs
The base 2.7L four-cylinder produces only 159 hp, making highway merging and loaded towing feel sluggish. Even the 3.5L V6 with 278 hp feels strained compared to competitors, and both engines suffer from poor fuel economy for their output levels.
Despite recent updates, the Tacoma's interior still relies heavily on hard plastics and feels dated compared to newer competitors. The infotainment system can be laggy, and road noise intrusion is significant, especially on rough surfaces.
Ideal Owner
Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, contractors, and families who need a reliable truck that can handle both daily commuting and weekend adventures.