2024 Toyota Tacoma aims for everyone, Trailhunter joins the line (2023)

On Thursday, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma debuted with a stunning array of configurations unheard of in the mid-size pickup segment. While this is the first update since 2016, the last truck used a 2005 frame. When the first models arrive later this year, the new 2024 Tacoma will feature turbocharged and hybrid powertrains, suspension seats and a new Trailhunter model.

The 2024 Tacoma lineup changes and expands with eight trim levels, three powertrains and two four-wheel drive systems. The continuation includes two cabin sizes and two bed lengths, but the smaller cabin also gets a new configuration.

Pricing has not been announced, but most of the models will hit showrooms later this year. The off-road-oriented versions of the TRD Pro and Trailhunter, as well as all other trucks ordered with the hybrid powertrain, will arrive in spring 2024.

Toyota Tacoma engines

The tried and tested 3.5-liter V-6 and 5-speed automatic transmission is dead. Now every Tacoma gets a turbocharged engine. The base Tacoma is powered by a detuned 2.4-liter turbo-4 engine with 228 hp and 243 Nm of torque. Trucks with this engine lack the oil cooler, engine mounts, and some mufflers that the more powerful Tacoms have.

Most Tacoms have a 2.4-liter turbo-4 engine with more boost than the base engine at 278 hp and 310 lb ft. It's the same 4 turbocharger found on the Highlander crossover SUV, but it's mounted longitudinally instead of transversely, and some of the internals have been beefed up.

Available on TRD Sport, TRD, Off-Road and Limited models and standard on TRD Pro and Trailhunter models, new 2.4-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder powertrain with 48 hp electric motor integrated into the transmission for a combined power output of 326 hp and 465 pounds per foot.

Almost every Tacoma comes with an 8-speed automatic transmission, but a variable-speed 6-speed manual transmission is available on the base SR. Manual transmission models receive an upgraded Turbo 4, slightly tuned to 270 hp and 310 lb ft, and a smaller 8.5 inch rear differential (turbo 4 models have a 9.5 inch rear differential) with limited torque rotating in first gear due to shaft winding.

Rear-wheel drive with a limited-slip differential is standard. Part-time four-wheel drive with a 2-speed transfer case is available, as is an electronic rear differential lock. The more expensive Limited models receive permanent four-wheel drive with a 2-speed transfer case, while the TRD Pro and Trailhunter models receive the same equipment and a locking center differential. All Tacoms use disc brakes on all four corners.

Toyota didn't give full specs, but said upgraded turbocharged 4 models with automatic transmission can tow up to 6,500 pounds and hybrid models up to 6,000 pounds. The hybrid's maximum payload is 1,709 pounds. Toyota said the Tacoma will have up to 11.0 inches of ground clearance, a 33.8-degree approach angle, a 23.5-degree transition angle, and a 25.7-degree departure angle, although the automaker didn't say which model those numbers represent.

The Toyota Tacoma is getting bigger

The Tacoma's total footprint has not changed, meaning it will still fit in an 18-foot garage. The rear axle has been moved back to extend the wheelbase by 4.5 inches, which in turn should improve ride quality. The width hasn't changed, but the stronger axles have been widened 2.6 inches for a more relaxed stance when cornering or on the trails.

Built onPlatform TNGA-Fdivided byFull-sized TundraISUV SequoiaThe Tacoma sits on a highly durable steel ladder frame that is stiffer than before. The crossmembers are stronger for greater durability and less torsion. Toyota said the aluminum body panels reduced weight, but wouldn't say by how much.

The lower trim SR, SR5 and TRD PreRunner models in Xtra Cab configuration still use rear leaf springs, but each double cab model is replaced with a multi-link rear suspension with coil springs for a better ride.

The base XtraCab is a normal two-door cab with no rear seat, but there is plenty of storage space behind the seats thanks to lockable storage compartments in the floor and rear panel. It replaces last year's Access Cab, which was an extended four-door cab with hinged rear doors and a pair of booster seats. The passenger seat backrest can be folded down to create a working area with a built-in cup holder. The SR, SR5 and TRD PreRunner can be configured with XtraCab and 6 foot bed.

Double cab models have four full doors and seating for five with a 5 or 6 foot bed. Non-hybrid models have more space under the rear seats than the current Tacoma, but hybrid versions use that space for the battery, as doesgreater Tundra. Thanks to the new packaging, all beds have 7% more volume than the current Tacoma.

The Tacoma TRD Pro and Trailhunter are designed for off-road riding

The TRD Pro off-road model uses the improved TRD upper wishbones with revised geometry and reduced unsprung weight. It relies on Fox 2.5-inch internal shocks with three compression damping settings that are manually adjusted via a dial on the shock body. There are also Fox bump stops when the suspension travel reaches its maximum, as well as an electronically controlled front release lever. The TRD Pro models ride 2.0 inches taller at the front and 1.5 inches taller at the rear, and the track is 3.0 inches wider than the SR5 model. The 18-inch TRD wheels are wrapped in 33-inch Goodyear Territory R/T tires. Toyota also replaces the high-clearance ARB metal rear bumper with integrated tow hooks and aluminum front skid plate.

The new Trailhunter model is designed for land descents. It features single-tube 2.5-inch ARB Old Man Emu (OME) shocks that are position-sensitive on all four corners, and the rear shocks have external, remote reservoirs. Available with a 5- or 6-foot bed, the Trailhunter has a bed-mounted air compressor, a bed support with removable Molle panels, a steel rear bumper with recovery points, and the same tires and ride height as the TRD Pro model. Additionally, a snorkel-like air intake is mounted on the A-pillar on the passenger side, a set of rocker arms protection bars are standard, and several (Toyota didn't go into detail) high-strength steel skid plates protect the underside of the truck. Toyota even installs a high-clearance exhaust valve tip to keep it away from rocks.

Toyota Tacoma looks like a Tundra

The Tacoma's new design is evolutionary at best, and some of the best parts have been carried over from the full-sized Tundra.

The blocky shape features a blunt front end, sharp corners on the front bumper for better approach angles and flared fenders that embrace the wider axles. The low sides of the bed have been kept for easy access, unlikeFord RangerIChevrolet Colorado. Each of the eight trim levels has its own design elements, but they are all massive. The TRD Pro and Trailhunter models feature increased height, large off-road tires and LED auxiliary lighting. The Tundra's best feature, the elbow-open electronic rear door unlock next to the driver's side taillight, also carries over to the Tacoma. Toyota went a step further and installed the same electronic unlocking feature in the passenger side rear light as well.

Inside, the Tacoma's dashboard is crowned with an 8- or 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and the TACOMA inscription on the passenger side. Top trim models have a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, with a 7-inch digital instrument cluster standard. The TRD Pro models go a little crazy with shock absorbers built into the seatbacks to help with lateral stability when riding off-road. Non-hybrid Tacoms come with a 400-watt AC inverter in the bed (along with another on the center console in the cabin), but hybrids increase bed power to 2,400 watts.

Toyota Tacoma safety features

Toyota equips every Tacoma with automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, active lane control, adaptive cruise control and an emergency stop function that brings the truck to a halt if the driver does not respond to alerts and warnings. Blind spot monitors and an omnidirectional camera system are available.