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If you’re an outdoorsman considering the 2024 Toyota Tacoma, or a current owner of one, you may have noticed a heated conversation brewing online. One specific post in the Toyota Tacoma 4th Gen 2024+ Facebook group has ignited discussions about a key aspect of this truck which is its gas tank size. Kurt Cose, a member of the group, recently shared his frustration after embarking on an ambitious road trip.
“I just did a 4,400-mile road trip, and I have two complaints,” Kurt wrote. “The 2024 Toyota Tacoma needs a bigger turbo and a bigger gas tank. It’s annoying when I’m stopping every 200 miles for gas. Let me be clear, I’m not complaining about the gas mileage. I’m complaining about the size of the tank they put in the truck.”
His post resonated with many, particularly those who love using their Tacoma for off-road adventures or lengthy road trips. For outdoor enthusiasts, a smaller gas tank can be a logistical nightmare. Whether you’re traversing backcountry roads or making your way through isolated trails, frequent stops at gas stations can disrupt the flow of an adventure, especially when gas stations aren’t always accessible.
Why Did Toyota Downsize the Gas Tank?
The 4th-generation Tacoma comes with an 18.2-gallon gas tank, a noticeable drop from the 21-gallon capacity in the 3rd generation. This decision has sparked widespread confusion and criticism. Why would Toyota reduce the tank size, especially for a vehicle so popular among off-road enthusiasts and long-haul adventurers?
One likely explanation is weight reduction. Smaller tanks weigh less, which can improve fuel efficiency slightly and align with the industry’s broader push towards meeting stricter emissions regulations. Additionally, Toyota likely wanted to optimize the Tacoma’s new platform for overall performance, but it seems this decision came at the expense of practicality for long-distance travelers.
This trade-off hasn’t gone unnoticed. Dan Conger chimed in on Kurt’s post, sharing his recent experience: “We took my wife’s TRD Pro to Tahoe last weekend, and I was shocked at how terrible the range on a single tank is. My Tundra TRD Pro has 450 miles on a single tank vs. the 250 on the Tacoma. How are we supposed to go on longer off-road adventures with such a small range?”
It’s worth noting that Dan’s Tacoma was modified with larger tires and a roof rack, which do impact fuel efficiency. Even so, his point highlights a growing frustration among Tacoma fans who expected more from the latest iteration of their beloved truck.
Michael Tumbow added his voice to the chorus of criticism: “The smaller tank was really a wrong call by Toyota. The larger and normal-size 21-gallon tank would really have been welcomed on this pickup and seriously does not add that much more weight. It is the biggest single complaint I have about this pickup.”
Why This Frustration Matters to You
If you’re someone who values efficiency and practicality on long drives or off-road trips, this conversation is crucial. Toyota’s decision to shrink the tank could directly impact how often you need to stop which is a significant factor for those exploring remote areas where gas stations are few and far between.
Moreover, understanding this issue now can help you make an informed decision if you’re considering purchasing a 2024 Tacoma. For those already driving one, it might even inspire creative solutions, such as carrying extra fuel or planning routes more strategically to accommodate the shorter range.
This debate also serves as a reminder of how important community feedback is. Owners’ voices often influence manufacturers to make changes in subsequent models. By joining the conversation, you’re not just airing frustrations, you’re contributing to potential improvements in the future.
The Outdoorsman’s Dilemma
The outdoors beckons with promises of adventure, but that promise is hindered when a smaller gas tank limits your range. For the typical outdoor enthusiast, someone who thrives on venturing deep into uncharted territories, this design choice feels like a step backward.
The frustration shared by Kurt, Dan, Michael, and others underscores the gap between Toyota’s engineering decisions and the needs of its core Tacoma audience. While the 4th-gen Tacoma brings improvements like better suspension and an updated powertrain, it’s clear that a larger tank would have elevated its appeal among the off-road crowd.
What’s Your Take?
As Toyota Tacoma owners and enthusiasts, your voice matters. What do you think of the new gas tank size? Have you experienced similar frustrations on road trips or off-road adventures?
Harutiun Hareyan is reporting Toyota news at Torque News. His automotive interests and vast experience test-riding new cars give his stories a sense of authenticity and unique insights. Follow Harutiun on Twitter at @HareyanHarutiun for daily Toyota, Tesla, and other car brand news.
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