2024 Toyota Tacoma Review

Mid-size pickup trucks are experiencing a renaissance, and Toyota’s Tacoma embodies this trend. This model’s years of success has culminated in a new and improved 2024 model, starting at $31,500. Toyota has been manufacturing its Tacoma since 1995, and a recent lack of mid-size pickup options compared to full-sized counterparts allowed this Japanese automaker to fill and dominate the segment—similar to Ford’s larger F-150 within the full-size category.

Motopickers Rating: 9/10

So, what makes this truck, specifically its 2024 model year, so satisfying for buyers? You may be surprised to learn that the vehicle’s perks extend beyond the pickup itself. Toyota cites paying particular attention to fulfilling Tacoma owners’ needs as a foundational block of this truck’s success.

One example of this quality customer service includes Toyota adding several off-roading packages to the model when discovering that 40% of Tacoma owners go off-roading at least once a month. Endorsements from prominent internet auto influencers don’t hurt either. Royalty Auto Service, a Georgia-based garage with 630,000 TikTok followers, posted a video with their owner, mechanic Sherwood Cooke Jr, labeling the Tacoma as his favorite pickup. 

MotoPickers is here to explore the 2024 Tacoma, inside and out, so you can determine whether you agree or disagree with the opinions of auto professionals like Sherwood Jr.

Rugged exterior design 

The 2024 Tacoma’s exterior appeal extends far beyond its 12 color options. Toyota has redesigned this Tacoma’s body with a broader stance and higher front bumper clearance for improved maneuverability, durability, and off-road protection.

This model’s TRD Pro trim further enhances off-roading with 33” rugged-terrain tires, premium LED lights for maximum visibility, and LED fog lights assisting in low-lit, inclement weather. Drivers seeking a class two-door pickup configuration can opt for the 2024 Tacoma’s XtraCab, which makes its return within this iteration. 

Interior analysis  

Step inside the 2024 Toyota Tacoma to experience enjoyable pickup utility. Despite its durable exterior, this Tacoma doesn’t compromise on cabin sophistication. Noteworthy touches within the 2024 Tacoma’s interior include available patterned premium SofTex-trimmed seats and walnut burl wood accents.

Front-row 2024 Tacoma passengers in the TRD Pro trim receive IsoDynamic Performance seats, which ease ride feel and stabilize road vision via an air-over-oil shock absorber system. The XtraCab trim features reinforced panel side pockets, a lockable rear panel, and abundant floor storage for cargo prioritization. 

Drivers can enhance the rear-row passenger experience in their Tacoma with an available power moonroof and additional storage underneath the seats within the i-FORCE-powered Double Cab, adding a touch of luxury to the vehicle’s utility.

Infotainment and technology 

The 2024 Tacoma boasts an available 14” audio multimedia display, which includes wireless must-haves like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. This lucid display represents Toyota’s latest audio multimedia system and includes satellite navigation compatibility. 

When it’s time to tune in to your favorite music, the 2024 Tacoma has everything you need and more with its 10-speaker JBL Premium Audio sound system, complete with a removable speaker. Drivers can enhance their on-road presence with the 2024 Tacoma’s 12.3” digital multi-information display, which hosts safety features and navigation, off-road assists, and more, providing a comprehensive overview of your journey. Rear passenger charging needs are taken care of with dual fast-charging USB-C ports. 

Performance spotlight

Toyota’s Tacoma doesn’t mess around when it comes to performance. The model’s available i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain leverages its 2.4-liter turbocharged engine alongside a 48-horsepower electric motor to produce 326 maximum horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of low-end torque, allowing you to drive slower over obstacles.

The i-FORCE MAX’s torque delivery is also instant thanks to the electric motor’s Power Control Unit, which enhances battery life. Toyota has placed this battery pack under the pickup’s rear seats. Alternatively, drivers can select the 2024 Tacoma’s i-FORCE 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque.

Transmission and Drivetrain 

Those who prefer a classic-feeling trucking experience can opt for this Tacoma’s available 6-speed intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) with:

• Automatic rev matching for smoother gear shifts
• Clutch-start cancel for vehicle ignitions without engaging the clutch 
• Anti-stall technology for increased capability in varied conditions

The 2024 Tacoma is available in RWD or 4WD.

Driving Experience

Toyota’s 2024 Tacoma confidently handles road bumps and changes with a new Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system that continually adjusts compression based on changing conditions. 

For those who love off-road adventures, the AVS system is a game-changer. Available on Limited grades, the front and rear shock absorbers with built-in actuators optimize damping force, delivering more refined ride handling on any terrain.

Additional off-road specs

The 2024 Tacoma doesn’t just travel off-road—it dominates. Its available multi-link rear suspension with coil springs elevates traction. At the same time, a Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism allows the wheels to more freely move up and down independently, a vital asset when traveling on uneven terrain. 

Multi-Terrain Select

When driving conditions change quickly, the 2024 Tacoma ensures you’re always in control. Its six-mode Multi-Terrain Select feature helps you maintain road contact by adjusting the engine throttle and traction control in real time. This feature gives you the confidence to handle any driving condition, putting you in command of your journey.

Confident exploration

Leave “stranded” out of your driving vocabulary with this acclaimed pickup’s ARB Steel Rear Bumper with Recovery Hooks. Similar to the 2024 Tacoma’s underbody protection, the high-clearance steel rear bumper supplies an extra layer of security, while recovery hooks can make the difference between getting free of or getting stuck in compromising situations. Toyota mounts these recovery hooks to the vehicle’s frame to solidify its durability.

Crawl Control and electronic locking rear differential

The 2024 Tacoma rounds out its off-road capability with Crawl Control and an electronically locking rear differential. Crawl Control regulates throttle and brake operation via one of five selectable speeds for more seamless obstacle avoidance. The electronically locking rear differential increases grip on slippery surfaces through more even power distribution. In other words, the electronically locking rear differential helps the wheels move at a uniform speed.

Fuel Efficiency

Tacoma drivers will have to sacrifice some fuel efficiency for all of the truck’s capability—but less than you may imagine. City MPG within this midsize contender ranges from 18-21, while highway MPG clocks in at 23-26 MPG.

Car and Driver’s 75 MPH real-world 2024 Tacoma mileage evaluation found that the TRD Off-Road Double Cab achieved 22 MPG on the highway, making it superior to its predecessor.

Safety Features

The 2024 Tacoma works to establish passenger peace of mind with its extensive inventory of advanced safety features. Noteworthy standard safety features include a backup camera and Toyota’s Safety Sense 3.0 system. 

Toyota Safety Sense 3.0

Toyota’s Safety Sense 3.0 system offers:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
• Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
• Lane Departure Alert With Steering Assist
• Lane Tracing Assist
• Road Sign Assist
• Automatic High Beams 
• Proactive Driving Assist 

Prospective pickup truck buyers will find some of these features as optional upgrades within comparable models instead of standard. The Proactive Driving Assist stands out with its gentle braking and steering inputs, helping you remain a safe following distance from other cars, cyclists, and pedestrians. IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) members gave this Tacoma a 2024 Top Safety Pick designation. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) awarded the pickup’s safety capabilities a five-star rating.

Available Safety Equipment

Toyota offers several available safety features that put you on the cutting edge of pickup passenger security. These advanced systems include: 

• Power Open-and-Close Tailgate (key fob or tail light switch activation, knee-lift assist closing)
• Blind Spot Monitor with Rear-Cross Traffic Alert
• Trailer Backup Guide with Straight Path Assist
• Front and Rear Parking Assist (via backup camera)
• Digital Rearview Mirror
• Power-Extending Running Boards to ease vehicle entries and exits

Before a test drive, verify that a particular 2024 Tacoma trim has your preferred available safety features so you can evaluate some of their capabilities firsthand.

Cargo and Towing 

The 2024 Tacoma offers drivers a towing range of 3,500 to 6,500 lbs and a maximum payload of 1,705 lbs. Hybrid Tacoma motorists receive 6,000 lbs of towing capability and a 1,709 peak payload capacity. 

Bed Dimensions and Features

Toyota offers two bed and cab configurations within this model year Tacoma—more on average than many competitors. The Extended-Cab contains a six-foot cargo bed, while the Double Cab supplies a more extended box or shorter five-foot variation. Integrated cargo-bed tie-down clamps increase utility.

These beds are also highly durable. Toyota reinforced the Tacoma’s bed with aluminum and an ultra-durable Sheet-Molded Composite (SMC) surface that’s tough and lightweight. Technology within the beds consists of an onboard air compressor, exterior LED lighting, and a 2,400W AC power supply.

Pricing and trims

While the 2024 Tacoma starts at $31,500, the entry-level SR model is just the tip of the iceberg, with 11 total trims available.

SR (base model) – $31,500

Toyota’s 2024 Tacoma SR, available with a five- or six-foot bed, features the i-FORCE 2.4L turbocharged engine and can accommodate a six-speed manual transmission instead of an automatic if preferred.

SR5 – $36,200

Move into the SR5 trim to experience coil-spring suspension within the Double Cab configuration. This variant is available in a five or six-foot bed and offers 21/26 city/highway MPG.

TRD PreRunner – $38,100

Starting at $38,100, the 2024 Tacoma TRD PreRunner ups the ante with XtraCab utility-enhanced rear storage, a six-foot bed, and 17” alloy wheels. 

TRD Sport – $39,400

The TRD Sport justifies its higher starting cost with specs like TRD sport-tuned suspension and 24 MPG on the highway.

TRD Off-Road – $41,800

Adventurers will revel in this trim’s off-road capability courtesy of offerings like Bilstein monotube shocks with remote reservoirs.

Limited – $52,100

The Limited trim makes its mark with features such as Available Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), 18” chrome-finish alloy wheels, and exterior accents.

TRD Sport i-FORCE MAX – $46,300

TRD sport-tuned suspension and a 2400W power supply helps drivers excel on and off the work site. 

TRD Off-Road i-FORCE MAX – $46,600

The TRD Off-Road i-FORCE MAX provides Bilstein monotube shocks with remote reservoirs in addition to a 2400W power supply channel. 

Limited i-FORCE MAX – $55,800

Limited i-FORCE MAX drivers receive a i-FORCE MAX 2.4L turbocharged hybrid powertrain supplying 23 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway.

Trailhunter – $62,900

The second-most-equipped Tacoma trim boasts Old Man Emu 2.5-in. forged monotube position-sensitive shocks with rear piggyback-style remote reservoirs, a high-clearance front bumper, rock rails, and an ARB steel rear bumper with recovery hooks.

TRD Pro – $63,900

IsoDynamic Performance front seats with a damping system, a hybrid powertrain, and 2.5” FOX Internal Bypass QS3 shocks with rear piggyback-style remote reservoirs help characterize the TRD Pro’s status as the 2024 Tacoma’s top trim.

Potential drawbacks to consider

While the Tacoma reigns supreme within its segment, some potential cons are worth considering. A new airshield beneath the pickup’s front bumper is low enough to cause some drivers anxiety when traversing speed bumps or navigating near curbs. 

A manual transmission option increases the 2024 Tacoma’s appeal for many but may present longer gear shifts. There’s also a significant size difference between the standard 8” infotainment display and the available 14” version.

Final Verdict 

MotoPickers gives the 2024 Toyota Tacoma a 9/10 overall rating, as there’s a lot to love about this vehicle as a pickup enthusiast. Critics have praised the 2024 Tacoma for improvements over its predecessors in areas like interior and exterior design, power, and handling. With 11 trims to choose from, Toyota takes care of midsize pickup drivers by supplying enough options to fit a spectrum of budgets. 

Still, these upgrades don’t come at the expense of efficiency. This model’s i-FORCE MAX 2.4L turbocharged hybrid powertrain helps define modern trucking with exceptional fuel economy and reliability. When you test the 2024 Tacoma’s power, anticipate ample support from complimentary performance features like electrically-assisted steering, an electronic brake booster, and more responsive handling.

Toyota has also hit the refresh button on this acclaimed model’s tech with offerings like head-up and 12.3” digital cluster displays streamlining a driver’s ability to digest vital information like safety alerts. Take the Tacoma for a test drive to experience its contemporary capability for yourself.