By Jim Prueter
MotorwayAmerica.com

(October 30, 2024) One of the most popular vehicles sold in America, the Toyota Tacoma pickup— after literally decades since receiving a thorough overhaul — has finally been redesigned for the 2024 model year, marking its fourth generation. Now fitted with and built on the latest full-sized Tundra pickup platform, the mid-sized Tacoma shares similar suspension elements, frame dimensions and vehicle technology.

With an all-new look, engine and pricing, the Tacoma has finally been modernized to better compete with excellent rivals like the GMC Canyon, Chevrolet Colorado and Ford Ranger. Available in more diverse configurations with two cab and a 5-foot or — 6-foot cargo bed size offering. There's a choice of 11 different trims from the base SR ($31,500) to the range topping TRD Pro ($63,900).

Currently there's just one engine option for all trim levels (except the base SR5 with a 228-hp four-cylinder), a 278-horsepower, 2.4-liter turbocharged i-Force four-cylinder paired with either an eight-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission. Rear-and four-wheel drive are both available but not on all models. Toyota announced a hybrid powered Tacoma is on the way but only offered with 4x4 Double Cab configurations.

We tested the TRD Off-Road that's only available in 4x4 configuration  and has a rated 6,400-pound  towing, less than Ranger's 7,500 pounds. A rotary controller in the center console selects various drive modes as well as access to the Multi-Terrain Select system, Tow/Haul mode, and the DAC/Crawl mode for low-speed off-road conditions. Above that, a simple toggle switch moves between 4L, 4H, and 2H settings.

Arguable the biggest improvements and changes are its major improvement to on-road driving comfort and significantly improved cabin design and functions. While the old Tacoma was well past its freshness and sell-by date, the new truck is loaded with the latest of Toyota's tech and design features borrowed from other recent Toyota models. There's a new and huge 14-inch infotainment touchscreen available with Toyota's latest software that's finally simple to use and supported with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The new Tacoma sheds its outgoing "rent-a-car" flimsy interior with a more premium interior including faux leather seats, superb heated and cooled front seats, an adjustable steering column and an overall more refined interior.

In Toyota's quest to thoroughly modernize the new Tacoma to better compete, Tacoma faithful might feel Toyota has gone too far from the simple, charming character and functionality offered by the "Taco" of the past. And for those counting their folding money, a fully optioned Tacoma Limited MSRP can exceed $70,000 after tax and license not counting price modifications by dealers on special, hard to get models. That much for a Tacoma? You must be kidding. Our Test Tacoma TRD Off-Road listed at just $36 below $55,000. Yikes.

Overall, the new Tacoma is now much like its competitors the Colorado and Ranger for better or worse.

Vital Stats
Base Price: $31,500 to $63,900
Price as Tested: $54,964 (TRD Off-Road)
Engine/Transmission: 278-horsepower 2.4-liter iForce turbocharged four-cylinder paired with either an 8-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission.
EPA Fuel Economy: 19/23/21 mpg - City/Highway/Combined
Seats: 5

Where Built: Guanajuato, Mexico

Competes With:
Chevrolet Colorado
Ford Ranger
GMC Canyon
Honda Ridgeline
Nissan Frontier

Crash Test Safety Ratings: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Top Safety Pick.

Likes:
Much needed refinement in driving dynamics and comfort
Huge improvement in interior design, materials and technology
Still maintains superb off-road capabilities
Can better compete with rivals

Dislikes:
Big boost in price
Thirsty four-cylinder engine
Extremely small/tight rear seat
Towing and hauling less than competitors