The anticipation surrounding the 2024 Toyota Tacoma has been palpable, and for good reason. Toyota has redesigned this iconic mid-size pickup truck, promising improvements across the board. As a content creator for Keyfobx.com, and an automotive repair specialist, I’m diving deep into the Reviews Toyota Tacoma is generating, offering both an expert perspective and insights gleaned from real-world owner experiences. This review is based on a firsthand account from a Tacoma enthusiast who upgraded from a 2021 model, providing a valuable comparison and comprehensive overview of what’s new and noteworthy in the 2024 iteration.
First Impressions and Exterior Styling
Stepping up to the 2024 Tacoma for the first time, the immediate impression is one of robust evolution. The owner of this particular model opted for the Ice Cap (White) color, a deliberate departure from their previous Metallic Gray 2021 Tacoma. This color choice accentuates the redesigned body lines, making the 2024 model distinctly different from its predecessor. While darker colors might mask some of these changes, the white finish highlights the more aggressive and modern styling cues Toyota has incorporated.
The 18-inch rims immediately catch the eye, contributing to a more commanding stance. The new body style is frequently described as tougher and more imposing, a sentiment echoed across various reviews Toyota Tacoma publications. Despite Toyota’s official statements and some reviews suggesting similar dimensions to the previous generation, this owner, with direct experience of a 2021 Tacoma, insists the 2024 model looks and feels larger. This perception could stem from the enhanced fender design and the more pronounced hood scoop, features that contribute to a more muscular aesthetic. It’s important to note that, as with previous models, the hood scoop remains a styling element on the TRD Sport and not a functional performance feature, with the TRD Pro being the exception.
One design element that drew immediate criticism from the owner was the front air dam, often referred to as the “chin.” Prioritizing aesthetics over potentially marginal fuel economy gains, the owner promptly removed this part. The absence of mudguards and side rails on this specific truck further enhances the cleaner, more rugged look. Overall, the 2024 Tacoma presents a visually compelling upgrade, successfully conveying a sense of increased height and presence, largely thanks to the larger rims and redesigned chassis.
Mechanical and Performance Enhancements
Moving beyond aesthetics, the 2024 Tacoma boasts significant mechanical upgrades, particularly in the braking and suspension systems. A standout improvement is the switch to disc brakes on all four wheels, finally replacing the drum brakes on the rear axle of previous non-SR models. For the owner, this was a highly anticipated change. Their experience with the 2021 Tacoma consistently left them feeling like the front brakes were disproportionately handling the braking load. While the ECT button was intended to mitigate this, the all-around disc brake setup in the 2024 model provides a more balanced and confident braking feel. This upgrade is frequently praised in reviews Toyota Tacoma, highlighting a tangible improvement in driving dynamics.
Another major advancement is the rear suspension. Excluding the SR trim, the 2024 Tacoma now features a coil-spring rear suspension, a departure from the leaf springs used in previous generations. This change directly addresses a common complaint among Tacoma owners – the often noisy and stiff ride quality associated with leaf springs. The owner’s test drive confirmed a significantly quieter and smoother ride in the 2024 model, despite the robust nature expected of a pickup truck. The elimination of leaf spring squeaking, a persistent issue in their 2021 Tacoma, further enhances the driving experience.
Tailgate and Bed Functionality
The redesigned tailgate on the 2024 Tacoma incorporates modern convenience and technology. The inclusion of buttons on both taillights for tailgate operation, along with power open and close functionality, marks a significant step up in usability. While power tailgates are not new to the truck segment, particularly for Toyota Tundra owners, this feature is a welcome addition to the Tacoma, enhancing its practicality. The owner humorously recounts a moment of unintended demonstration to their child, highlighting the user-friendly nature of these controls. Furthermore, a knee-activated lift assist adds another layer of convenience. Models equipped with the power tailgate also feature integrated buttons for locking and unlocking the truck directly from the tailgate, a thoughtful touch for enhanced security and ease of access. The inclusion of a power supply plug and USB ports in the truck bed further expands the utility of the Tacoma for work and recreational purposes. The rear of the truck also features cameras integrated into the top stop light, one for monitoring the bed and another for the digital rearview mirror system.
Interior, Technology, and Connectivity
Stepping inside the 2024 Tacoma reveals a thoroughly modernized cabin. The “new car smell” is accompanied by the visual impact of Softex seats, a leather steering wheel, and the expansive 14-inch infotainment display. Upon ignition, the digital cluster comes to life, offering customizable displays. The 14-inch screen dominates the center stack, ready for wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto integration. The setup process, while generally straightforward, may require some patience for less tech-savvy users, but the owner found it manageable, particularly with the Toyota app integration.
The Toyota app unlocks further digital features, including trial subscriptions for Remote Connect with Digital Key. The digital key functionality allows for smartphone-based locking, unlocking, and starting of the vehicle, offering keyless convenience. Traditional key fobs are still included, along with a credit card-style wallet key for minimalist carry. The owner prefers the wallet key, utilizing Apple Watch integration for locking and unlocking, showcasing the seamless integration of technology in the 2024 Tacoma.
The 14-inch display significantly enhances the CarPlay experience, offering a vast and clear interface compared to the smaller 8-inch screen in the previous generation. The screen’s responsiveness and purported fingerprint resistance are additional positives. Connectivity is notably fast, with instant CarPlay connection upon starting the truck.
The digital cluster is highly configurable, offering various display options and “widgets” for customized information presentation. Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0) is another major technological upgrade, introducing a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. Features like Proactive Driving Assist (PDA), Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Tracing Assist enhance safety and driving ease. The extensive camera system, including front, side mirror, and multiple rear cameras, provides comprehensive views, further aided by the large 14-inch display. The digital rearview mirror, while initially requiring adjustment, becomes a valuable feature, offering an unobstructed rear view. Garage door opener integration is another convenient addition.
Additional interior features include 8-way power-adjustable front seats for both driver and passenger, heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, auxiliary buttons for accessories, rear USB-C and power ports, an improved wireless charging pad, front 45W USB-C ports, and a removable Bluetooth speaker in the dashboard.
Driving Experience and Performance
On-road driving in the 2024 Tacoma is described as a marked improvement over the 2021 model. Despite the shift from a V6 to a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, the owner reports ample power. The turbo engine delivers smooth and responsive acceleration, feeling far from strained. Sport mode further enhances performance, providing readily available power. Addressing concerns about the longevity of a turbocharged 4-cylinder in a truck, the owner expresses confidence in Toyota’s engineering and the typical ownership duration of Tacoma buyers, suggesting that long-term durability concerns may be overstated.
Conclusion
In conclusion, reviews Toyota Tacoma consistently point to the 2024 model as a significant evolution of this popular mid-size truck. The owner’s detailed experience corroborates these reviews, highlighting substantial improvements in styling, mechanical refinement, technology, and overall driving experience. From the enhanced exterior design and upgraded suspension to the modern interior and advanced technology integration, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma offers a compelling package for both loyal Tacoma enthusiasts and new truck buyers. While personal preferences may vary, the advancements in the 2024 Tacoma solidify its position as a leading contender in the mid-size truck segment. For more in-depth car reviews and expert automotive analysis, visit keyfobx.com.
