Toyota has given its midsize pickup truck, the Tacoma, a major overhaul for the 2024 model year, a ground-up redesign that includes an attention-grabbing exterior and a brand-new powertrain.
It comes with either a 6-speed manual transmission, or an 8-speed automatic, with several TRD optional packages available. While the one with the manual comes only in two trims, the automatic offers six different packages.
Our tester was equipped with the TRD Sport Premium option, which is an additional $11,455 – the second highest in the lineup. It brings the final price $60,468.58 and adds a long list of items such as wireless device charging, moonroof, heated steering wheel, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SofTex seats, ventilated front seats, a 14-inch infotainment screen, a six-foot bed and more.
The changes for 2024 are dramatic and give the Tacoma definite curb appeal and an upgraded interior that is welcoming and modern.
Powertrain: As part of the overhaul for 2024, the 3.6-litre V6 is gone, replaced by a turbocharged 2.4L 4-cylinder engine.
It delivers 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, all of which is moved through an 8-speed automatic transmission. The Tundra also features four-wheel drive and with the optional package that includes trailer brake controller. The maximum towing capacity of the Tacoma is 6,500 pounds.
The engine’s fuel economy is estimated at 11.4 litres per 100 kilometres, and I came pretty close to matching that, with a result of 11.9 L/100 km.
Exterior: The designers that worked on the Tacoma gave the truck a very distinctive new look and a front end that stands out. The front fascia includes a wide front grille with a hexagonal motif, which in black is in nice contrast to the attractive red paint on the tester.
The hood features an air intake for the engine, and the front look is completed by LED fog lights.
One thing I found odd up front is the rather large plastic piece that extends below the fascia. I can easily see that being damaged during Canadian winters.
From the side, the body panels are nicely sculpted, and large haunches over the wheels give the Tacoma a wide appearance.
A nice design element I discovered is the integrated spoilers on the roof and tailgate, which blend in seamlessly to the overall look of the truck.
On our tester, the exterior look is completed by a nice set of 18-inch TRD Sport alloy wheels.
Interior: Like the outside, the interior has been fully redesigned and modernized. A dominant feature in the vehicle we drove is the 14-inch screen in the middle of the dashboard.
The SofTex seats are heated and ventilated and they are quite comfortable for a pickup truck.
Controls are neatly organized in the centre stack, with a clean combination of dials and switches that are easy to operate.
In the rear, the seat bottom can flip up and the new Tacoma has three times more storage there than the previous generation. The seatback can also fold flat when more space is needed.
Infotainment: Paired with the 14-inch screen on our test vehicle is a 10 Speaker JBL Audio System with Portable Bluetooth Speaker, which can be removed and used to play music from your device for up to six hours. And it can be submerged in up to three feet of water, so you don’t have to worry about getting it wet if using it on your off-road adventures.
The system’s menus are well organized and features clear, large icons to navigate through. Response time is good, and I appreciated the sound quality from the JBL system.
Drive: The pickup truck has a selected drive mode (Sport, Eco and Normal) as well as hill-start assist control.
The part-time 4WD system can be controlled through a control in the centre console, next to the shift lever, while the tow/haul mode is also activated by a switch behind the shifter.
The Tacoma rides quite well for a pickup truck, with good handling and it always feels well planted.
Road noise in the cabin is kept to a minimum thanks to a better job with the sound proofing on the Tacoma.
Conclusion: Toyota has upped the ante in the mid-size pickup game with the redesigned Tacoma. From its looks to engine and drivability, there are a lot of positives. The six-foot bed on our tester is a handy feature, and the cabin is a very modern and welcoming environment for the driver and occupants.
The Tacoma is a popular model and will likely continue to win over consumers with this latest iteration.
2024 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab
2024 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab
2024 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab
2024 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab
2024 Tacoma Double Cab
Price as tested: $60,468.58
Freight: $1,930.00
Configuration: Front engine/Four-wheel drive
Engine/transmission: 2.4-litre 4-cylinder turbo/ 8-speed automatic
Power/torque: 278 horsepower/ 317 lb-ft of torque
Fuel (capacity): Regular (69 L)
Combined fuel economy ratings (L/100 km): 11.4 L/100 km
Observed fuel economy (L/100 km): 11.9 L/100 km
Warranties: 3-years/60,000 km (basic)
Competitors: Chevrolet Colorado, Ford Ranger, GMC Canyon, Honda Ridgeline