Toyota Tacoma

The redesigned 2024 Toyota Tacoma represents the first major overhaul of the popular mid-size pickup since 2016. The new Tacoma features a more aggressive, chunky exterior design with a family resemblance to the redesigned full-size Tundra that debuted for 2022. Inside, the Tacoma’s cabin has been modernized with digital displays, improved ergonomics and the latest infotainment technology. A new four-cylinder-only powertrain lineup includes a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder with up to 278 horsepower, as well as a hybrid variant pairing the turbo 2.4-liter with an electric motor for 326 hp. Driving dynamics are enhanced over the previous-generation Tacoma through updates to the steering, brakes and suspension. Toyota doubled down on the Tacoma’s off-road credentials, with half the trim levels (including an expanded range of TRD and Trailhunter trims) offering enhanced capability. The fourth-generation redesign brought the Tacoma up to date in terms of technology, safety and utility while maintaining the truck’s core rugged appeal that has made it a longtime bestseller in the mid-size pickup class.

Though Toyota didn’t start with a clean sheet, the 2016 Tacoma received significant updates, including more aggressive front styling, a new V-6 engine, a six-speed automatic transmission, suspension changes, and high-strength steel for the frame and body. The interior also received upgrades, and a GoPro camera mount became available. More recently, a TRD Pro model with greater off-road capability was added for 2017, and for 2018 automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning with sway warning, and adaptive cruise control became standard.

A 2005 redesign of the Tacoma gave all versions of the truck more muscular styling, a longer wheelbase and a wider track. Though Toyota continued to call it a compact truck, it had mid-size dimensions. Regular cab, Access Cab and Double Cab body styles carried on, and the base four-cylinder engine and an available V-6 were larger and more powerful. Maximum towing capacity when properly equipped was 6,500 pounds. Stability control, front side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags became standard for 2009. The truck was mildly refreshed outside and inside for 2012, and the regular-cab body style disappeared after 2014.

The Tacoma debuted with a lineup that included compact-sized regular- and extended-cab (Xtracab) styles, two four-cylinder engines and a V-6, plus available four-wheel drive and a coil spring, double-wishbone front suspension. All versions had a 6.2-foot cargo bed, and V-6 trucks could tow up to 5,000 pounds. Production initially was in Fremont, Calif., making it the first Toyota pickup truck built in the U.S. The Tacoma gained a Double Cab style with four regular doors and a three-person rear seat for the 2001 model year.