5 Awesome Features Of The 2024 Toyota Tacoma

The current-generation Toyota Tacoma came about in 2023 and became the third Toyota truck to feature electrification. While Tacoma enthusiasts understandably frown upon the lack of a V-6 engine, the fourth generation of the iconic Japanese truck has a lot to offer. And if that isn't enough, Toyota Tacoma owners have a bunch of popular mods to choose from. With that said, the new Toyota Tacoma promises to be quite versatile and offer a version of the mid-size truck for everyone. Here are five great Tacoma features I found.  

The range-topping, hybrid powertrain is where it's at 

All three engine options for the Toyota Tacoma revolve around a 2.4-liter, turbocharged inline-four, but only the range-topping option is a hybrid. The i-Force Max powertrain pushes 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet - the same one used in the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser J250. The engine is optional on mid-range Tacoma models as well, so you don't need to go for the most expensive trim to get it. The best part is that extra performance is not at the cost of fuel economy.  

While the non-hybrid models average 20 MPG according to the EPA cycle, the i-Force Max-equipped Tacoma bumps that figure up to an estimated 24 MPG. At the same time, the 2024 Tacoma i-Force Max can tow up to 6,500 pounds and has a payload capacity of 1,709 pounds. As for how fuel-efficient the Tacoma is while towing, we don't know yet, but the new, V-6-powered Toyota Tundra surprised some of its owners and not in a good way. 

The iMT manual transmission 

Yes, even in 2024, Toyota Tacoma continues to offer a six-speed manual transmission. The iMT2 as Toyota calls it comes with automatic rev-matching on downshifts and automatic rev-hang on upshifts, which can be turned off. It is available on a variety of trims, with the dual-cab body style. Those include SR, TRD Sport, and TRD Off-road trims. The 2025 Toyota Tacoma GR Sport will, reportedly be, manual-only, and with more focus on on-road performance while still boasting off-road credentials.  

As always, an automatic is available, and here, Toyota is giving us an eight-speed automatic with compact torque-converter packaging. The only downside is that by going for the manual, power for the mid-range engine option drops from 278 to 270. In the past, it used to be the opposite. Perhaps Toyota wants you to buy the automatic? 

The GR-Four AWD system 

While most Toyota Tacoma trims rely on a conventional 4WD system with a new transfer case and an electronically locking rear differential - there is no front locking differential on the Tacoma - this might change with the GR Sport variant. Since it is more on-road focused, the Toyota Tacoma GR Sport gets the GR-Four all-wheel-drive system found on the GR Yaris and GR Corolla- an unlikely decision on Toyota's part, but we'll take it.  

We know the GR Corolla has locking differentials front and rear, but only on the higher trims, so the real question is whether the Tacoma GR Sport will get those as well. Two neat features of this system are that you can adjust power distribution in multiple ways while also having the option to completely disengage the front axle, powering only the rear wheels. 

Soft-close tailgate 

There are some features we can do without, but it's always neat to have them. The Tacoma has no shortage of those, but one of the most amusing features is the soft-close tailgate. Now, you have a bunch of options when it comes to opening and closing Tacoma's tailgate.

While you can still do it manually, there is an integrated button into both taillights that when pressed automatically elegantly closes the tailgate. The most amusing part is that the tailgate reaches an almost closed position and then gently finishes the closing procedure as if you are in a Rolls-Royce.  

The rugged, dual-purpose drive-mode selector 

It's always nice to see a truck that hasn't gone overkill on the digital aspect. The 2024 Toyota Tacoma is a great example of that, especially when it comes to the drive-mode selector. 

The selector has a dual function, meaning the top rotating part selects between the different drive modes – Eco, Normal, and Sport – while the bottom part alternates between 2WD, 4WD, and 4WD with low gears. You could say it's one of the more overengineered pieces in the Toyota truck, but I personally think it is a good way to save space and add character to an otherwise mundane feature. 

I realize there is a lot to love and a few things to hate about the 2024 Toyota Tacoma, but if there is a feature you think I missed, feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section below.  

About the author

Dimitar Angelov's automotive interests made him an expert in a wide variety of vehicles. Japanese brands like Toyota are closest to his heart, although performance cars in general are his favorite segment, which is why he is constantly on the lookout for the best deals on the market. Dimitar Angelov's car passion and knack for the written word led him to complete a Master of Arts in Media and Communications, and classic car restoration. Dim is happy to get behind the wheel of any car and share his impressions. You can follow Dimitar on X, Linked-in, Instagram, and Facebook.

Image sources: 2024 Toyota Tacoma i-Force Max & 2024 Toyota Tacoma