The Toyota Tacoma has long been a dominant player in the midsize pickup truck segment, and the all-new 2024 model raises the bar yet again. With its rugged capabilities, improved refinement, and cutting-edge technology, the Tacoma remains a compelling choice for drivers seeking both utility and comfort.

Exterior Design

The Toyota Tacoma features a bold and modernized design while preserving its rugged heritage. With an updated front grille and new LED headlight clusters, the Tacoma projects a more assertive and confident presence on the road. Additionally, sculpted body lines enhance its aerodynamic profile, while flared wheel arches underscore its off-road capabilities. These design elements work together to create a cohesive look that appeals to drivers who value both style and functionality.

To further meet diverse consumer preferences, the Tacoma offers multiple trims and extensive customization options. Buyers can select from a variety of grille designs and wheel finishes, allowing them to personalize their vehicle to align with their individual tastes. These choices, combined with different bed lengths and cab configurations, enhance the truck’s adaptability to a wide range of lifestyles and practical needs. Whether prioritizing rugged utility or refined aesthetics, the Tacoma’s design ensures it remains versatile and distinctive in its segment.

Key exterior features include:

• LED headlights and taillights (standard on all trims)
• Available TRD Pro-specific design elements, including skid plates and exclusive badging
• Multiple bed lengths and cab configurations for enhanced versatility

Interior Comfort

The Toyota Tacoma’s interior reflects a significant improvement in quality and comfort. High-quality materials now dominate the cabin, creating a more refined and inviting atmosphere. The redesigned seats offer better cushioning and support, making long drives more enjoyable, whether on the highway or off the beaten path. Rear passengers in Double Cab models benefit from enhanced legroom and seating ergonomics, ensuring a more spacious and comfortable ride.

Attention to detail extends to storage options as well, with cleverly placed compartments and versatile layouts that accommodate a variety of needs. Whether commuting or adventuring, the Tacoma’s cabin has been thoughtfully crafted to prioritize functionality and comfort.

Technology Features

Toyota has equipped the new Tacoma with a suite of advanced technology to enhance connectivity and convenience. At the center of the dashboard is an 8-inch touchscreen, with an optional 14-inch upgrade available on higher trims. The system runs Toyota’s latest multimedia interface, which is intuitive and responsive. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, ensuring seamless smartphone integration for navigation, music, and hands-free calls.

For those seeking a premium audio experience, the Tacoma offers an available JBL sound system that delivers crisp and immersive sound. Additional features, such as wireless charging and multiple USB ports, cater to modern connectivity needs. With its combination of advanced features and user-friendly design, the Tacoma’s technology package ensures a connected and enjoyable driving experience.

Performance and Capability

The Tacoma showcases an impressive range of powertrain options designed to meet the needs of diverse drivers, from traditional enthusiasts to those prioritizing efficiency. The lineup begins with the 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which delivers a robust 278 horsepower, ensuring strong performance for daily driving and light towing duties. For those seeking an innovative edge, the Hybrid i-FORCE MAX powertrain stands out, combining a turbocharged engine with an electric motor to produce an impressive 326 horsepower. This option not only enhances fuel efficiency but also significantly boosts towing capability.

Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that provides smooth and precise shifts. Standard rear-wheel drive adds to the Tacoma’s versatility, offering confident handling on paved roads.

For drivers needing more traction, Toyota’s proven four-wheel-drive system is available across the lineup, making the Tacoma a dependable partner in various driving conditions.

Towing and payload capacities remain competitive within the segment, with the Tacoma able to tow up to 6,500 pounds and carry a payload exceeding 1,700 pounds in specific configurations. Upper-grade trims like the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro elevate the Tacoma’s capabilities even further. These models include features such as Multi-Terrain Select, which optimizes traction on different surfaces, and Crawl Control, a low-speed cruise control designed for navigating challenging off-road terrain. The advanced Fox shocks and skid plates offered on these trims underscore their trail-ready nature, ensuring that the Tacoma can conquer the most demanding adventures.

With these enhancements, the all-new Tacoma offers a performance spectrum that blends strength, versatility, and advanced technology, making it a leader in its class.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Toyota continues its commitment to safety with the inclusion of Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 as standard on all trims. This suite of advanced driver assistance features includes:

• Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
• Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (available on higher trims)

Driving Experience

On the road, the Tacoma strikes a balance between rugged capability and ride comfort. While its off-road chops are unparalleled in the segment, Toyota has refined the suspension tuning to reduce harshness on paved surfaces. The hybrid powertrain delivers smooth and responsive acceleration, with minimal turbo lag. However, keep this in mind: the hybrid powertrain is designed more for performance than it is for fuel savings. There is very little improvement in fuel efficiency with it.

Off-road, the Tacoma’s reputation remains untarnished. Features like Crawl Control and the available locking rear differential ensure confident handling on challenging terrain. The TRD Pro trim is particularly impressive, handling steep climbs and rocky trails with ease. The nearly off-road courses we frequent were closed for the season, so we were limited in that regard. Yet, we still managed to take the Tacoma to our favorite gravelly drive where it excelled.

Pricing and Competition

The 2025 Toyota Tacoma starts at $31,000 for the base SR trim and climbs to over $63,000 for the fully loaded TRD Pro. While it faces stiff competition from rivals such as the Chevrolet Colorado, Ford Ranger, and Nissan Frontier, the Tacoma’s legendary reliability and off-road prowess make it a standout choice. Other competitors include the Jeep Gladiator, Honda Ridgeline, and the GMC Canyon.

Verdict

The current-generation Toyota Tacoma builds on its storied legacy with meaningful updates in design, technology, and performance. Whether you need a dependable workhorse or a capable adventure vehicle, the Tacoma delivers on all fronts. With its broad range of trims and configurations, there’s a Tacoma to fit nearly every lifestyle and budget.

See Also — 15 Things We Like About the 2025 Toyota Tundra

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