The year 2023 is turning out to be the year of midsize trucks. Ford is introducing a new Ranger, while Chevrolet and GMC are releasing updated versions of their Canyon and Colorado trucks. Not to be left behind, Toyota is adding to the excitement by unveiling the next-generation Tacoma.
Toyota has placed the new Tacoma on the same platform as the recently redesigned Tundra, which means significant changes are in store for the beloved Tacoma. However, Toyota has chosen to retain some fan-favorite features that set it apart from its rivals, particularly the manual transmission. Furthermore, Toyota is expanding the Tacoma lineup to provide enthusiasts with even more options when configuring their preferred model.
As part of the downsizing trend, the current Tacoma’s 3.5-liter V6 engine is being replaced. The sole internal-combustion powerplant available will be a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, branded as i-Force, with different power levels offered across various trims.
The base-model Tacoma SR delivers 228 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The rest of the lineup, equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, sees power increase to 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Opting for the eight-speed automatic transmission boosts the power output to 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, along with the highest towing capacity of 6,500 pounds.
While the 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine is the only available engine option, it is not the only powertrain. Toyota is introducing its i-Force Max hybrid system to the Tacoma in 2024. This means the 2.4-liter engine will work in conjunction with an electric motor and an eight-speed transmission to produce 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid powertrain enables the Tacoma to tow up to 6,000 pounds, slightly lower than the top trim levels with conventional engines. Unfortunately, fuel economy figures for the hybrid powertrain have not yet been released.
Underpinning the latest Tacoma is Toyota’s new truck platform, known as TNGA-F, which is also utilized in the Tundra and Sequoia SUV. This fully boxed ladder frame is constructed from high-strength steel and offers two different rear suspension setups along with a standard double-wishbone front suspension.
The base models feature leaf springs controlling the movement of the rear solid axle, while the SR5 models with the DoubleCab shell receive a multi-link rear suspension with coil springs for improved ride quality and load management. The SR5, SR, and TRD PreRunner grades retain leaf springs as standard, ensuring enhanced control over the rear end for the TRD Pro.
In terms of trim options, Toyota will launch the next-gen Tacoma with eight trims across two body styles. The lineup starts with the base SR, followed by the SR5 and Limited trims near the top. The TRD lineup remains intact, including the TRD PreRunner, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and TRD Pro.
A new addition to the options list is the Trailhunter trim, targeting overlanding enthusiasts and offering additional features such as ARB remote reservoir rear shocks, a steel rear bumper, and 33-inch Goodyear Territory R/T tires. The Trailhunter also boasts a higher air intake, a high-clearance exhaust system, skid plates, triangulated bed lining, and a 2400-watt power inverter.
At the top of the TRD lineup, the TRD Pro is exclusively available in the larger DoubleCab shell. It shares the steel bumper and inverter from the Trailhunter and benefits from
Sufficient to maintain the Tacoma’s relevance, but similar to other Toyota products, it will face a decline in demand once the Cybertruck becomes available.
Appearing as the finest Tacoma model to date, although I believe that the pricing will allow other manufacturers to remain competitive and relevant.
The angular exterior design captures my interest, and I appreciate the cluster, dash, and steering layout. It brings to mind a combination of the 1980s Toyota Pickup and Corolla, merging simplicity with a sense of enjoyment and excitement. I’m eagerly anticipating the release of the TRD Pro I-Force Max Hybrid variant, particularly in that captivating blue color that has already won me over.