2024 Toyota Tacoma Review - First Drive

JamesF said:

I don't know about that. I just asked for a Trailhunter review in the style of Jeremy Clarkson. It's not really a convincing Jezza piece, but it's still a pretty good read!

Note that it's sticking to this idea that the Tacoma is coming with the old V6, but the big exciting news here is that the Trailhunter is apparently coming with an optional refrigerator and in-bed storage! You heard it here first, folks

Behold:

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma Trailhunter: A Truck for People Who Think Camping Is Too Hard

Overlanding is the new craze among people who have too much money and time on their hands. It's basically camping, but with more gadgets and less fun. And to join this exclusive club of bored adventurers, you need a special vehicle. A vehicle that can handle any obstacle, haul all your stuff, and pamper you with luxury and convenience. A vehicle like the new 2024 Toyota Tacoma Trailhunter.

The Trailhunter is not just another version of the Tacoma, the most popular midsize truck in America. It is a unique edition that has been tailored and tweaked specifically for overlanders. It has everything you need to escape civilization and avoid human contact for as long as you can.

Let's start with the basics. The Trailhunter is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that makes 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel-drive system with a two-speed transfer case and an electronic locking rear differential. It also has a hybrid option that adds an electric motor and a battery pack for better gas mileage and more grunt.

But that's not all. The Trailhunter also comes with a bunch of off-road-ready features, such as an ARB rear bumper, big tow hooks that you'll never use. It also has flared fenders, roof racks, and off-road lamps that will make you look like a hardcore explorer. And if that's not enough, you can also opt for a bed rack with a roof-top tent, a refrigerator, and custom in-bed storage features that will make your truck look like a mobile home.

Inside, the Trailhunter is equally impressive. It has leather seats, a 12-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and a JBL sound system that will drown out the noise of the wilderness. It also has a host of safety and driver-assist features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Because nothing says overlanding like relying on technology to do everything for you.

The Trailhunter is not cheap, though. It starts at $45,000, which is more than twice the price of a base Tacoma. But hey, you get what you pay for. And what you pay for is a truck that can do everything except blend in. The Trailhunter is the ultimate overlanding machine for people who want to show off their adventurous spirit without actually being adventurous. It's the perfect truck for people who think overlanding is just camping with a fancy name.

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St00k said:

With the truck now revealed, I figured it would be a good time to try this again. What do you think:

2024 Toyota Tacoma First Drive Review: The Ultimate Adventure Machine

The mid-size pickup truck market has long been dominated by the Toyota Tacoma, and now, the 2024 Tacoma is here to solidify its position as the ultimate adventure machine. With a complete redesign from the ground up, this new Tacoma is built for epic off-road adventures while retaining Toyota's legendary quality, durability, and reliability. Let's dive into the details and see what the 2024 Tacoma has to offer.

On-Road Driving Characteristics

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma impresses on the road with its powerful and efficient engine options. The standard i-FORCE turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine produces up to 278 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque, providing ample power for everyday driving. For those seeking even more performance, the available i-FORCE MAX turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain takes things to another level with 326 horsepower and a massive 465 lb.-ft. of torque. This hybrid powertrain is the most powerful ever offered on the Tacoma and ensures confident acceleration and passing ability.

Thanks to the redesigned multi-link coil rear suspension and enhanced frame rigidity, the 2024 Tacoma delivers improved ride and handling compared to its predecessor. The suspension tuning varies across different grades, with TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road models receiving performance shocks for a more responsive and capable ride. The addition of electric power steering further enhances the driving experience, providing precise and effortless maneuverability on and off the road.

Off-Road Characteristics

When it comes to off-road prowess, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma shines brighter than ever. The Tacoma's rugged construction is built upon the TNGA-F global truck platform, ensuring exceptional durability and capability. High-strength steel is used throughout the chassis, while aluminum components reduce weight and enhance efficiency. With the availability of a multi-link rear suspension and four-wheel disc brakes, the Tacoma delivers improved off-road performance and braking compared to its predecessor.

The TRD Pro model takes off-road capability to new heights with its Baja-inspired enhancements. It features Fox QS3 three-way adjustable internal bypass shocks with remote reservoirs, providing improved high-speed off-road performance. The TRD Pro also boasts a front stabilizer bar disconnect, allowing for increased suspension flex at the push of a button. With impressive approach, breakover, and departure angles, as well as 11 inches of running ground clearance on TRD Pro models, the 2024 Tacoma is ready to conquer any trail.

For those seeking the ultimate overlanding rig, the all-new Trailhunter grade is a game-changer. Developed in collaboration with ARB, Old Man Emu, and RIGID, the Trailhunter comes equipped with integrated off-road equipment straight from the factory. It features OME 4x4 Suspension by ARB, rear external piggyback style remote reservoirs, and a steel rear bumper with recovery points. With a bronze-colored grille, 20-inch LED light bar, and a host of other off-road goodies, the Trailhunter is a purpose-built overlanding machine ready to tackle any adventure.

Specific Models: Trailhunter and TRD Pro

The Trailhunter and TRD Pro models deserve special attention for their unique capabilities and features. The Trailhunter, as mentioned above, is the ultimate overlanding rig. It combines Toyota's legendary quality and reliability with purpose-built off-road equipment. With its OME suspension, high-clearance trail exhaust tip, and integrated air compressor in the bed, the Trailhunter is designed to take you far off the beaten path.

On the other hand, the TRD Pro focuses on high-speed desert running. It comes equipped with performance enhancements such as red aluminum front TRD upper control arms and Fox QS3 shocks. The TRD Pro also introduces a segment-first IsoDynamic Performance Seat, which enhances off-road driving control and comfort. This seat utilizes an air-over-oil shock absorber system to dampen body movement and stabilize the head and neck, providing a smooth and confidence-inspiring ride in rugged terrains.

Technology and Safety

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma is packed with the latest technology and safety features to enhance your driving experience. The cabin boasts an 8-inch or available 14-inch touchscreen display, showcasing Toyota's latest Audio Multimedia system. With wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, along with a Qi wireless charging pad, the Tacoma ensures seamless connectivity and convenience.

Safety is a top priority for Toyota, and the 2024 Tacoma comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. This suite of advanced safety and convenience systems includes features like Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and Lane Tracing Assist. Additionally, the Tacoma offers available features like Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Road Sign Assist to provide added peace of mind on the road.

Specific Features

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma is designed with versatility and functionality in mind. The new XtraCab long bed configuration expands the interior functionality and cargo capacity, catering to those who need extra space for their gear and equipment. The bed volume has increased by 7%, and the aluminum tailgate features a power open and close function for added convenience.

The Tacoma offers a range of powertrain options, including the standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine and the powerful i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain. The latter delivers exceptional performance both on and off the road, allowing the Tacoma to ascend steep grades without the need to downshift.

For those who love to customize their trucks, Toyota offers a wide range of accessories through the Associated Accessory Products program (AAP). These accessories include off-road recovery gear, storage attachments, and outdoor sporting equipment carriers, among others. With over 100 accessories available, customers can personalize their Tacoma to suit their specific needs and preferences.

Conclusion

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma is a formidable contender in the mid-size pickup truck market. With its rugged construction, off-road prowess, advanced technology, and impressive range of models and features, the Tacoma is the ultimate adventure machine. Whether you choose the Trailhunter for overlanding expeditions or the TRD Pro for high-speed desert runs, the Tacoma delivers on its promise of unmatched capability, reliability, and excitement. Get ready to embark on your next epic adventure with the 2024 Toyota Tacoma.

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