29Nov
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma is all-new and not just cosmetically. The Tacoma pickup truck, globally renowned for its robust build quality and performance, has also been re-engineered from the ground up. While that means the price has increased significantly across all the trim levels, you can trust Toyota to ask for all that money in return for a satisfying array of upgrades that makes Tacoma Nigeria's favorite pickup truck after the Toyota Hilux.
The upgrades include a hybrid powertrain borrowed largely from the Tundra full-size pickup. Having asserted its dominance in the midsize pickup truck segment for nearly two decades, the all-new Tacoma looks set to redefine contemporary truck standards.
Meticulously crafted for the 2024 model year, this 4th-generation Tacoma embodies Toyota's commitment to quality, durability, and reliability, seamlessly blending a rich heritage with cutting-edge technology, rugged aesthetics, and unparalleled off-road prowess.
The Reengineered Tacoma Is Built For Nigeria
Reengineered and redesigned from the ground up for 2024, the Tacoma shares the marque’s newer TNGA-F global truck platform with Tundra, Sequoia, and Land Cruiser, tailored specifically for global markets like North America and Nigeria.
The Toyota Tacoma's TNGA-F (Toyota New Global Architecture-F) platform is well-suited for the diverse and challenging Nigerian terrains thanks to its high-strength boxed steel-ladder frame, providing robust durability and reliability. This design is ideal for navigating varied terrains, from urban roads to rough rural landscapes in Nigeria.
The platform's fully redesigned coil spring multi-link rear suspension enhances the truck’s off-road performance. This is crucial for handling Nigeria’s uneven surfaces, potholes, and unpaved roads.
Nigeria experiences diverse climatic conditions, from hot and arid to humid, and TNGA-F incorporates materials and construction techniques that can withstand these varying environments, ensuring the vehicle's performance remains consistent across changing weather conditions.
With a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 lbs., the Tacoma on the TNGA-F platform is well-equipped to handle towing demands. This is valuable for drivers in Nigeria who may need to tow equipment for various purposes. In fact, the new i-FORCE Max Tacoma models have their maximum towing capacities increased by 1,710 lbs.
Furthermore, the TNGA-F platform allows for ample ground clearance, a crucial feature for navigating through potentially challenging terrains. This is particularly beneficial in rural areas or regions with less developed infrastructure.
Every Tacoma model is off-road-ready and comes with available upgrades to make them more capable. Take the Tacoma Trailhunter, for example. It uses the TRD Off-Road’s powertrain and adds off-road equipment from ARB, Old Man Emu®, and Rigid Industries®.
Toyota says the Tacoma Trailhunter is “built from the ground up to tackle practically any adventure you can dream up" and can be outfitted into any aftermarket overlanding rig. The visible Old Man Emu's rugged suspension system and underbody armor improve the new Tacoma's badass look on the road.
The TNGA-F’s high-strength materials and advanced engineering contribute to Tacoma’s overall durability and reliability. This is essential for drivers in Nigeria who rely on their vehicles for both daily commuting and more adventurous off-road journeys.
Toyota group vice president and general manager Dave Christ is proud of the finished work by the marque’s engineering team. "Our engineers outdid themselves with this next-generation Tacoma," said Christ.
"This truck offers customers more of everything, including technology, style, and capability, all with an attractive starting MSRP. This is a segment Toyota has carried for years, and we feel this next iteration of Tacoma only raises the bar."
Made In America, Perfect For Nigeria
With the slogan "Badass Adventure Machine” as the watchword, Toyota's Michigan, US engineering team tailored the 2024 Tacoma's design, features, and capabilities to cater to adventurous spirits.
The Newport Beach and Michigan-based CALTY Design Research Center played a pivotal role in shaping both the interior and exterior aesthetics. Collaborating closely with the teams behind the Tundra and Sequoia models, CALTY President Kevin Hunter emphasized the collaboration and dedication that brought the new Tacoma to life.
Drawing inspiration from Toyota's truck DNA and Baja race trucks, the design team did an excellent job capturing the extreme spirit of off-road adventure, resulting in the iconic "Tacoma-ness" – characterized by a high lift, big tires, slim body, and a powerful athletic stance.
The visible tough-looking skid plates, high-mount headlamps, side functional air guides, and hexagonal grille motif will leave Nigeria’s politicians wondering if they should swap their Hilux for the Tacoma.
Toyota says the goal of the 4th-gen Tacoma’s redesign was to create an extremely adroit, multipurpose vehicle capable of conquering various terrains, from city streets to rugged trails and even high-speed desert racing.
The truck’s high-strength steel underpinning, shared with the larger Land Cruiser, benefited from blanking and laser welds for increased rigidity. Aluminum is incorporated into the upper body for weight reduction, while frame crossmembers are reinforced for durability and to accommodate dealer-available accessories like rooftop tents and camp fridges.
The platform's attention to detail includes integrated attachment holes, simplifying the process of adding roof rack rails on all models. The 2024 Tacoma boasts enhanced ride and handling characteristics with the newly introduced multi-link rear coil suspension, replacing leaf springs on most models.
Disc brakes are now standard for improved braking performance, with TRD models featuring an even larger front brake package. Introducing an electronic parking brake, electric power steering, and various safety and convenience features further elevates the driving experience.
See also: Here’s Why Toyota's IMV 0 Is The World's Cheapest Pickup Truck For Serious Truckers
Key Features Of The 2024 Toyota Tacoma
The 2024 Tacoma meets diverse trucking demands with its maximum towing capacity of 6,500 lbs. on specific grades. New features include an available trailer brake controller, Tow/Haul drive mode, Trailer Back-Up Guidance, and Straight Path Assist for a hands-free backing experience.
The Panoramic View Monitor enhances overall visibility, and the Blind Spot Monitor identifies blind spots for both the truck and certain trailers. Bed improvements include a seven percent increase in volume, a deeper design for added storage under a closed tonneau cover, and a lightweight yet robust Sheet-Molded Compound (SMC) construction.
The aluminum tailgate features a power open and close function, a quick release and close button, and hands-free closing with the auto-close function. Power outlets, including a 400W AC inverter in gas grades and a 2400W AC inverter in i-FORCE MAX grades, promote the truck's versatility. Additionally, the bed view camera provides real-time cargo monitoring while on the move.
2024 Toyota Tacoma Models
Tacoma's overall character is as diverse as its models, thanks to each trim's tailored suspension tuning to enhance the driving experience. The TRD Sport trim, for example, features red TRD sport-tuned shocks for responsive road handling, while the TRD Off-Road boasts Bilstein remote reservoir shocks for off-road prowess.
Tacoma TRD Pro features FOX QS3 three-way adjustable shocks, and Trailhunter showcases the Old Man Emu 4x4 Suspension for optimal off-road control. The Limited trim introduces an Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system, adjusting damping forces based on road conditions for a smooth ride.
Chief Engineer Sheldon Brown emphasized the team's focus on character separation between grades, ensuring each offers a unique and purposeful experience.
“We set out to provide even greater attribute separation between grades,” said Brown. “Each one has a distinct focus on the core purpose of the grade and uses hardware-, spec- and performance-based tuning to deliver that unique experience more so than in the past.”
Nigeria Is Ripe For The 2024 Tacoma i-FORCE Max
For the 2024 MY, Tacoma expands its powertrain options to include a turbocharged i-FORCE 2.4-liter engine generating up to 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque.
However, the star of this show, if you ask us, is the i-FORCE MAX hybrid, delivering a showstopping 326 horsepower and a substantial 465 lb-ft of torque, effectively moving the goal post for torque in the midsize truck segment.
In a country like Nigeria, where fuel costs are literally driving the economy to death, hybrid technologies like the i-FORCE Max’s powertrain provide a cost-effective solution for daily commuting and long journeys.
Tacoma’s i-FORCE Max’s combination of power and efficiency means drivers can experience the power of a robust truck while minimizing fuel expenses and reducing overall environmental impact.
Since Nigeria encompasses both urban and rural settings, the hybrid powertrain's penchant for operating efficiently in stop-and-go city traffic, as well as during off-road adventures, makes the Tacoma i-FORCE Max a versatile choice for drivers anywhere in Nigeria.
Additionally, the Tacoma i-FORCE Max's hybrid system includes regenerative braking, converting kinetic energy during braking into electrical energy. This not only improves fuel efficiency but also extends the life of brake components, reducing maintenance costs.
Anticipated to hit Toyota dealerships in December 2023, the all-new 2024 i-FORCE Tacoma models will be joined by i-FORCE MAX models in the spring of 2024.
Power And Efficiency
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma offers a choice of two power mills, both utilizing a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The standard powertrain delivers up to 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque with an eight-speed automatic transmission or an available six-speed intelligent manual transmission.
The SR model offers an entry-level option with 228 horsepower and 243 lb-ft of torque, achieving an impressive 26 MPG (Hwy). A six-speed manual transmission with rev-matching is available for enthusiasts.
Note that the EPA is yet to provide fuel economy figures for the new Tacoma, but Toyota affirms the truck is good for 18/21 mpg for city driving and 23/26 for highway. In any case, these figures aren’t much of an improvement over the outgoing V6’s efficiency.
The i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, available on the various TRD models (except the PreRunner grade), Trailhunter, and Limited trims combine the 2.4-liter engine with a 48-horsepower electric motor, yielding a total system output of up to 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This marks a significant enhancement in torque, offering a smooth ascent on interstate hills without downshifting.
Exemplary Off-Road Capability
Tacoma's off-road capability reaches new heights with features like an available front stabilizer bar disconnect system, providing increased suspension flex at the push of a button.
The i-FORCE Tacoma models boast impressive approach, breakover, and departure angles, coupled with a maximum ground clearance of 11.5 inches on TRD Off-Road. Multi-Terrain Select, CRAWL Control, electronically activated locking rear differential, and Downhill Assist Control further enhance off-road navigation.
For added durability, Tacoma wears tough skid plates to protect key undercarriage components, an additional front frame cross member, and rock rails on select trims.
Owners can personalize their Tacoma with factory accessories conveniently controlled by pre-wired auxiliary buttons in the cabin. The 2024 Tacoma is not just a truck; it's the ultimate adventure machine, embodying Toyota's commitment to off-road excellence and customer customization.
A Tech-Forward Pickup Truck With Cutting-Edge Interior Features
The all-new 2024 Tacoma isn't just a work truck; it's a technological marvel that can boldly stare down even play-focused modern pickup trucks.
The cabin exudes innovation, featuring an 8-inch or available 14-inch multimedia touchscreen that showcases Toyota's latest Audio Multimedia system.
Crafted by Toyota's Connected Technologies team in Texas, the system supports wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. The convenience is further elevated with a Qi wireless charging pad, USB-C ports, and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster on higher grades.
Tacoma's Smart Key System, Digital Key, and Smart Card key promote convenient, secure, and flexible access options for your Tacoma. The Tacoma cabin maximizes utility with ample storage, including under-seat storage and versatile MOLLE panels.
For audiophiles, the premium 10-speaker JBL® audio upgrade and the unique JBL® FLEX portable speaker offer an immersive sound experience on the go. Offering various grades and configurations, the 2024 Tacoma caters to diverse trucking and hauling needs.
The XtraCab introduces new utility with clever storage features, while grades like TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter offer specialized features for various trucking experiences. The color palette, including the exclusive TRD Pro color Terra, adds a touch of personalization.
Safety And Warranty
The Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 is standard on all 2024 Tacoma models, offering enhanced road safety features like a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Tracing Assist, and Road Sign Assist.
With its comprehensive warranty coverage, including ToyotaCare Roadside Assistance and maintenance plans, the 2024 Tacoma promotes peace of mind for its owners. As a versatile, technologically advanced, and environmentally conscious vehicle, the Tacoma is a testament to Toyota's commitment to delivering an exceptional driving experience for all.
How Much Is The 2024 Toyota Tacoma In Nigeria?
Unfortunately, Toyota Nigeria does not offer the Tacoma officially in the country. However, after a cursory search on popular marketplaces online, we found a used 2023 model listed for N50 million.
Toyota offers the Hilux in Nigeria, while North America gets the Tacoma, but Tacoma is very much exportable to countries outside America. With the Toyota Hilux not directly sold in the United States, the Tacoma is the closest Hilux counterpart in the Toyota lineup for the U.S. market.
The Tacoma midsize pickup truck shares similarities with the global Toyota Hilux, offering off-road capabilities and versatility. While they are distinct models with variations in design and specifications, the Tacoma serves a similar market segment in the U.S. that the Hilux addresses in other parts of the world.
As for the 2024 Toyota Tacoma’s pricing structure, the base SR trim starts at $35,500 (around N28 million at N790/$), a substantial $5,000 price increase over the outgoing generation’s starting MSRP. Although the i-FORCE Max powertrain isn’t available with the base SR trim, it does offer the option of a 6-speed manual gearbox for a more engaging driving experience.
The next in line for the trim levels is the SR5, starting at $36,200 (N28.7 million). The extra cash gets you coil spring rear suspension and 17-inch alloy wheels to get you started on your customization journey.
Next is the TRD PreRunner, starting at $38,100 (N30.2 million) and featuring an electronically controlled locking rear differential for improved traction and stability in off-road, slippery, and other tricky terrain conditions.
The TRD Sport model is where i-FORCE Max’s availability begins, starting at $39,400 (N31.3 million) and differentiating itself with the TRD mesh grille with hood scoop and 19-inch TRD alloy wheels.
Next in line is the TRD Off-Road, starting at $41,800 (N33.2 million) and bouncing on Blistein monotube shocks with remote reservoirs. It also features Toyota’s Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select drivetrain system.
Following on Off-Road’s heels is the $52,100 (N41.3 million) Limited trim, standing aside with available Adaptive Variable Suspension to optimize the truck’s ride quality in various terrains. You could call it the Tacoma’s Jack of all Trades, and it looks nice on 18-inch chrome-finished alloy wheels.
The Trailhunter comes next, followed by the TRD-Pro, both of which stand as the Tacoma's apex predators. They'll be available in early 2024, by which time Toyota will have released their pricing details.
Note that the above are just some of the features that come standard or optional with the trim packages, and the prices are MSRPs, excluding destination and handling fees.
Comments