2024 Toyota Tacoma Buyer’s Guide: Best Trims, Engines, and Features for Enthusiasts

• December 2, 2025
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The 2024 Toyota Tacoma is the first complete redesign of this beloved midsize truck in nearly two decades. With an all-new platform, fresh engine options, modern tech and expanded trim levels, the new Tacoma is Toyota’s biggest truck release in years.

Whether you’re a long-time enthusiast or a first-time buyer, this guide will break down the most important points you need to know about the revised Tacoma lineup, including which 2024 Toyota Tacoma model offers the best value, capability and fun.

Engine & Transmission Overview: Meet the Brand-New 2.4L Turbo

Every 2024 Tacoma is powered by a new 2.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, but output varies based on transmission and trim:

• 228 hp / 243 lb-ft – SR trim with 8-speed automatic
• 270 hp / 310 lb-ft – SR trim with 6-speed manual
• 278 hp / 317 lb-ft – All other trims with automatic
• 326 hp / 465 lb-ft – I-Force Max hybrid

A six-speed manual transmission is available on select trims, and an upcoming i-Force Max hybrid powertrain will deliver more power and improved fuel economy later in the rollout.

2024 Tacoma Trims and Features: Which One is Right for You?

1. Tacoma SR (Entry-Level Workhorse)

• MSRP: Just over $38,000 (4x4 Manual)
• Best For: Budget-minded buyers and off-road enthusiasts who want a stick shift
• Suspension: Rear leaf springs
• Power: Up to 270 hp with manual
• Drivetrain: 4x4 available
• No-frills but capable. Manual version offers great value with solid power.

2. Tacoma SR5 (Value Meets Comfort)

• MSRP: Just under $42,000 (4x4 Auto)
• Best For: Daily drivers and weekend adventurers
• Suspension: Leaf springs on Xtra Cab; coil springs on Double Cab
• Power: 278 hp (automatic only)
• Adds tech, comfort, and coil spring rear suspension on Double Cab versions

3. TRD PreRunner (Affordable Sporty Option)

• MSRP: Under $40,000
• Best For: 2WD enthusiasts, desert runners, or budget builds
• Drivetrain: 2WD only
• Suspension: Rear leaf springs
• Highlights: Skid plates, locking rear diff, aggressive tires and wheels
• Only available as Xtra Cab with automatic

4. TRD Sport (Street-Focused Performance)

• MSRP: Just over $44,000 (4x4 Auto)
• Best For: On-road driving with sportier looks and handling
• Suspension: Coil spring rear
• Wheels: 18-inch
• Transmission: Available with 6-speed manual or 8-speed auto
• Balance of style, comfort, and decent trail capability

5. TRD Off-Road (The Enthusiast Sweet Spot)

• MSRP: Around $44,000+ (4x4 Auto); Save ~$1,200 with Manual
• Best For: 4x4 trail lovers and weekend warriors
• Suspension: Coil springs with optional disconnecting sway bars
• Drivetrain: 4x4 with terrain modes, locking rear diff, and skid plates
• A proven favorite for off-road fans looking for capability without the TRD Pro price tag

6. Tacoma Limited (Luxury Trim)

• MSRP: Over $53,000
• Best For: Buyers looking for a luxury truck experience
• Features: Leather seats, sunroof, power tailgate, power running boards
• Drivetrain: 4x4 only, automatic only
• Premium comfort and tech with a rugged exterior

Additional Models: TRD Pro & Trailhunter

Toyota has also released additional trims featuring the i-Force Max hybrid powertrain which top the lineup:

• TRD Pro – High-performance off-roader with unique suspension seats and premium hardware. MSRP likely in the $60,000+ range
• Trailhunter – Overland-ready truck designed for off-grid travel with standard hybrid powertrain and specialized accessories

Which 2024 Tacoma Should You Buy?

• Best Budget Enthusiast Truck: SR 4x4 with manual transmission
• Best Everyday Value: SR5 Double Cab with coil spring rear suspension
• Best Street Truck: TRD Sport with manual
• Best Off-Road Value: TRD Off-Road with optional sway bar disconnect
• Best for Comfort & Tech: Limited
• Most Capable: TRD Pro or Trailhunter (Hybrid only)

More Tacoma Options Than Ever

Toyota has delivered a truly diverse Tacoma lineup in 2024, offering something for nearly every type of truck buyer. From bare-bones work trucks to off-road monsters and even hybrid-powered overlanders, the 2024 line-up, while bringing a new generation to the Tacoma, continues as a diverse workhorse for the U.S. truck buyer.

And for die-hard fans of Toyota performance? We’re still holding out hope for a street-ready GR Tacoma inspired by the old X-Runner.

FAQ: 2024–2025 Toyota Tacoma Pickups

Q: How much power does the hybrid Tacoma make compared to the standard turbo?

The base 2.4 L turbo produces up to 278 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque, while the hybrid i-Force Max version delivers 326 hp and 465 lb-ft — the highest output ever for a Tacoma. The hybrid’s instant torque also improves towing confidence and off-the-line response.

Q: Which Tacoma trim is best for off-roading?

The TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro remain the most capable off-road choices. The TRD Off-Road offers great value with its available disconnecting sway bar and terrain modes, while the TRD Pro adds advanced FOX QS3 shocks, unique IsoDynamic Performance seats, and hybrid power as standard.
2025 Update: The Trailhunter trim is also a standout for overlanding, featuring ARB-tuned Old Man Emu suspension, 33-inch all-terrain tires, steel rock rails, and onboard 2,400-W AC inverter power.

Q: Are Nitto Terra Grappler G3 tires a good replacement option for the 2024–2025 Toyota Tacoma?

Yes. The Nitto Terra Grappler G3 A/T is one of the best all-terrain replacements for the new Tacoma’s factory tires. It offers balanced on-road comfort and confident wet-weather traction while maintaining off-road durability. For daily drivers, weekend explorers, and overland builds, it delivers the right mix of quiet highway manners and trail-ready grip.

Q: What sizes of Nitto Terra Grappler G3 fit the 2024–2025 Tacoma?

Popular upgrade sizes include 265/70R17, 275/70R17, and 285/70R17, depending on trim and lift setup. These sizes fit factory wheels on most TRD and SR5 models without rubbing.

Q: Can you still get a manual transmission?

Yes. A six-speed manual is available on SR, TRD Sport, and TRD Off-Road trims paired with the standard turbo engine.

Q: What are the biggest changes for the 2025 Tacoma model year?

The 2025 Tacoma carries over most features from the 2024 redesign but adds standard front tow hooks across trims, higher-capacity auxiliary switches (up to 95 amps), and new paint options such as Terra Orange and Bronze Oxide. Toyota has also enhanced the Trailhunter’s accessory catalog with additional ARB and Yakima components.

Q: How does the new Tacoma compare to rivals like the Ranger Raptor or Colorado ZR2?

The Tacoma TRD Pro’s hybrid torque (465 lb-ft) surpasses both, and Toyota’s reliability reputation gives it a long-term ownership advantage. The Ranger Raptor offers more horsepower, but the Tacoma delivers better fuel economy and hybrid efficiency.

Q: Is Toyota planning a GR or street-performance Tacoma?

Toyota has not confirmed a GR Tacoma, but rumors persist following the GR Hilux reveal overseas. Toyota executives continue to hint that a performance-oriented Tacoma “is under consideration,” so enthusiasts may still have reason to hope for a modern X-Runner-inspired model.