TFL is back to doing what put them on the map: spy videos from their home turf in Colorado. Most manufacturers perform high-altitude testing there, and it seems mid-sized pickups are now on the agenda because the 2024 Toyota Tacoma was spotted in the company of its future rival, the next-gen Ford Ranger.
As full-sized trucks are becoming premium vehicles with expensive engines and interior options, the need for mid-sized models is higher than ever. The Toyota Tacoma remains the segment’s most popular choice with the Japanese automaker selling 139,300 examples in 2021.
The Tacoma is offered with 5- or 6-foot beds, lots of trim levels, and two engine choices, the 2.7-liter four-banger and a 3.5-liter V6. However, there’s no denying that it’s old, having made its debut back in 2015.
This is the second spy video of the Tacoma we’ve shown, and a few things have changed. Firstly, it’s believed that Toyota has delayed it until the 2024 model year. It makes sense not to offer a brand new model in the context of parts shortages and uncertain market conditions.
New platform, engine, and chassis components
As you can see, the two test prototypes featured here have long skirts hanging off the back. This is because Toyota wants to hide the components of the rear, which for the 2024 Tacoma are rumored to include coils and disc brakes. Yes, the drums may finally be replaced.
The 2024 Tacoma is said to be underpinned by the same TNGA-F platform, the same as the larger Tundra. And it seems engineers are using these underpinnings to change the proportions because the prototypes have a low floor and high roof, perfect for creating a relatively spacious cabin.
In the powertrain department, Toyota is finally ready to use new generations of engines. While the old V6 proved reliable over time, it wasn’t particularly powerful or efficient. In its place, the 2024 Tacoma model will probably replace this with a 2.4-liter turbo.
The powertrain has already made its way to the 2023 Highlander 3-row SUV, where it makes 265 horsepower and 309 pound-feet of torque. By comparison, the current 3.5-liter Tacoma makes 278 hp and 265 pound-feet of torque.
Getting rid of the V6 sounds controversial, almost unthinkable for some Tacoma fans. But the 2023 Lexus RX also got rid of the V6 it featured from the beginning. It’s possible that a hybrid system will also be introduced, and an EV Tacoma seems almost guaranteed given they showed a concept last year.
First glimpses of 2024 Tacoma interior
The new Tacoma will have to compete with an all-new Ford Ranger, which has already been revealed in Australia and has a much better cabin.
TFL didn’t capture a clear shot of the interior, but through the windshield, you can make out a large infotainment screen sitting on top of the dash. This lines up with what Toyota offers on newer models and will have to compete with the latest SYNC system used by the Ranger, which is similar in size to the Mach-E’s.
