Not everyone who desires a pickup wants a full-size truck. While they are popular, many folks are going instead for a midsize model.
A hugely popular truck for nearly two decades, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma is better than ever, thanks to a smart full redesign. The Tacoma has been a very popular alternative for shoppers who feel full-size trucks are just too big and too expensive.
Currently, midsize trucks are gaining in popularity due to their practicality and versatility. They offer a good balance between the size of a full-size truck and the maneuverability of an SUV. The rugged Tacoma shares the midsize truck world with two notable rivals – the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado.
However, the Ranger and Colorado are not even in the same league when it comes to sales. The past six years have been the best since Tacoma’s 1995 debut, with numbers ranging from roughly 216,000 to a high of 252,490 in 2021. Last year Tacoma sales reached 234,768.
Reportedly, half the midsize trucks sold in the U.S. are Tacoma models. It has remained the top seller in its class for the last 14 years, thanks in part to its reasonable price, which this year starts at approximately $33,800.
The new Tacoma is well–rounded with few deficiencies. This year’s changes include a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a modernized interior, additional comfort, and the Trailhunter and TRD Pro feature advanced off-road capability and high-performance drivetrains.
The Tacoma has eight different trim levels (SR, SR5, TRD PreRunner, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, TRD Pro and Trailhunter) and is offered with extended-cab and crew-cab body styles. The cargo bed size ranges from 60 to 73.2 inches.
If off-roading is a priority, the Tacoma is up for the challenge. The TRD Off-Road provides 11 inches of ground clearance and has off-road crawl control, skids plates, 33-inch all-terrain tires and several other helpful features that make an off-road journey more enjoyable.
The standard Tacoma engine is now a turbo 2.4-liter, four-cylinder that generates 228 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque. It goes 0-60 mph in 7.6 seconds. The upgraded engine (i-Force Max) is a turbo 2.4-liter, four-cylinder that combines with a 48-horsepower electric motor to produce 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It’s slightly faster, going 0-60 mph in 7.4 seconds.
AT A GLANCE – 2024 TOYOTA TACOMA
- Performance: turbocharged 2.4-liter, four-cylinder, 228 horsepower; turbo 2.4-liter, four-cylinder, 48-horsepower electric motor, 278 horsepower
- Mileage estimate: 20-23 mpg; 20-26 mpg
- Price: $33,800 to $63,900
- Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles; drivetrain 5 years/60,000 miles; corrosion 5 years/unlimited; roadside assistance 2 years/unlimited
Tacoma no longer offers a V6 option. This year’s pickup has a payload capacity of 1,710 pounds and the towing capacity is 6,500 pounds when properly equipped.
While the Tacoma doesn’t drive like a smooth crossover SUV, this year the ride is better. The truck resides on what Toyota calls the TNGA-F platform, which is also underpinning for the companies two full-size trucks – Tundra and Sequoia. The new chassis is lighter and stronger than previous models,
The overall interior design has improved and highlights include an easy-to-master 8.0-inch touchscreen and a 10-way driver’s seat. Speaking of seats, the front seat has more comfort than ever before. The climate control is simple to master and the buttons and knobs are large and easy to identify. While the front seat has improved, the back seat remains cramped with poor leg room, a typical complaint regarding midsize trucks.
The redesign gives folks one more reason to seriously consider purchasing a 2024 Toyota Tacoma. The new engine was a smart switch and car shoppers will appreciate there are eight versions for choosing that just-right Tacoma.
Weidel on Wheels is featured regularly on www.tahoeskiworld.com. Auto writer Jeffrey Weidel can be reached at skiweidel@gmail.com. Follow him on Twitter at @jeffweidel.
