2024 Toyota Tacoma Review: Off-Road Prowess vs Everyday Practicality

The midsize truck segment has seen fierce competition in recent years, with the Toyota Tacoma maintaining its position as America's best-selling midsize pickup despite growing challenges from redesigned rivals. This comprehensive review examines how the latest Tacoma stacks up against competitors like the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, and Nissan Frontier in critical areas including performance, comfort, technology, and value.

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Market Position and Competitive Landscape

The midsize truck category has experienced a remarkable resurgence after years of declining sales. General Motors set the benchmark with their completely redesigned Colorado and Canyon twins, offering unprecedented refinement and capability for the segment. Nissan's Frontier, while aging, remains a value proposition, and Ford's return to the segment with the Ranger has intensified competition.

Against this backdrop, Toyota's Tacoma continues to dominate sales charts through a combination of legendary reliability and strong off-road credentials. However, as our testing reveals, this popularity comes with some notable compromises in daily usability and modern features that buyers should carefully consider.

Exterior Design and Styling

The current-generation Tacoma presents a muscular, aggressive stance that clearly communicates its truck DNA while maintaining Toyota's distinctive design language. Key exterior features include:

• Bold front grille with prominent Toyota emblem
• Flared fenders for a wider, more planted appearance
• High beltline and upright windshield for classic truck proportions
• LED lighting available on higher trims
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Two distinct design philosophies emerge across the trim levels. The TRD Off-Road models embrace a functional, rugged aesthetic with:

• Blacked-out trim elements
• Minimal chrome accents
• Aggressive off-road tires
• Increased ground clearance

In contrast, Limited models cater to urban buyers with:

• Premium chrome detailing
• Color-matched bumpers and trim
• Larger alloy wheels
• Integrated running boards

Powertrain and Performance

The Tacoma offers two engine choices, both carrying over from previous generations with minor refinements:

Our testing revealed several key performance characteristics:

• The V6 provides adequate power for most situations but feels strained when towing near capacity limits
• Manual transmission suffers from vague shifter feel and long throws
• Automatic transmission demonstrates smooth operation but occasionally hunts for gears on grades
• Engine noise becomes pronounced under heavy acceleration
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Notably absent is a diesel option, which competitors like the Colorado/Canyon offer. The available 2.8L Duramax diesel in GM's trucks delivers superior torque (369 lb-ft) and significantly better fuel economy (up to 30 mpg highway).

Ride and Handling

The Tacoma's on-road manners reflect its body-on-frame construction and off-road intentions:

During emergency braking tests, the Tacoma required significantly longer stopping distances than competitors - a concerning holdover from previous generations that Toyota has yet to adequately address.

Interior Comfort and Ergonomics

The Tacoma's cabin presents the most significant compromises relative to newer competitors. Our evaluation uncovered several pain points:

Space and Dimensions

Despite exterior dimensions similar to rivals, the Tacoma's interior feels noticeably more confined, particularly in these areas:

• Headroom: Limited by low roof height and high floor
• Legroom: Front seats lack sufficient rearward travel for taller drivers
• Shoulder room: Narrower cabin than Colorado/Canyon

The driving position proves problematic for many drivers due to:

• High floor positions legs straight out rather than at a comfortable angle
• Steering wheel doesn't telescope far enough for optimal positioning
• Seat height adjustment range is limited
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Materials and Build Quality

While Toyota maintains its reputation for solid construction, material quality lags behind competitors:

• Hard plastics dominate touchpoints in all but Limited trims
• Leather seating (when equipped) feels durable but lacks premium feel
• Switchgear operates with precision but design feels dated

Technology and Infotainment

The Tacoma's tech offerings represent a mixed bag in today's competitive landscape:

The Entune infotainment system functions adequately but suffers from:

• Outdated graphics and menu structure
• Slower response times than newer systems
• Overly complex voice command system
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Off-Road Capability

Where the Tacoma truly shines is in its off-road performance, particularly in TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims. Key advantages include:

• Multi-Terrain Select system (similar to Land Cruiser technology)
• Available locking rear differential
• Crawl Control for low-speed off-road maneuvering
• Excellent approach/departure angles
• Durable underbody protection

During off-road testing, the Tacoma demonstrated:

• Superior traction management compared to Colorado ZR2
• More predictable behavior on loose surfaces than Frontier Pro-4X
• Better suspension articulation than base models of competitors

Towing and Payload Capacity

The Tacoma's capabilities fall slightly short of segment leaders:

Real-world towing observations:

• V6 provides adequate power for most trailers up to 5,000 lbs
• Trailer sway control works effectively
• Integrated brake controller available as accessory
• Mirrors could provide better visibility for wide loads
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Safety Features and Ratings

The Tacoma's safety profile presents both strengths and concerns:

Crash Test Performance

• NHTSA Overall Rating: 4/5 stars
• IIHS Ratings: Good in most categories
• Notable exception: Headlights rated Marginal on most trims

Available Safety Technology

While Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) has become standard on most passenger vehicles, the Tacoma offers a more limited suite:

• Available blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
• Standard rearview camera
• Available parking sensors
• Notable omissions: Automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control

Fuel Economy Realities

During extended testing across various conditions, we recorded:

Factors contributing to the shortfall include:

• Aggressive final drive ratios for off-road capability
• Aerodynamic limitations
• Weight penalties from rugged construction
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Pricing and Value Proposition

The Tacoma's pricing structure reflects its premium position in the segment:

Resale value remains a strong point for the Tacoma, with industry data showing:

• 3-year residual value: ~65% (best in segment)
• 5-year residual value: ~55% (significantly better than competitors)

Final Verdict: Who Should Consider the Tacoma?

The Toyota Tacoma remains a compelling choice for specific buyers, particularly those focused on off-road adventures and long-term ownership. However, shoppers prioritizing interior comfort, modern technology, and value may find better alternatives in the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, or even the upcoming Ford Ranger.

Ultimately, the Tacoma's enduring popularity stems from its proven reliability and strong resale value rather than class-leading refinement or innovation. For the right buyer, these qualities outweigh its shortcomings, explaining its continued sales success in an increasingly competitive market.

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