Although fully-electric technology is continuously evolving, the headaches associated with its ownership have people turning onto hybrids, which provides proven relief from the grips of the gas pump.
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As a leader in hybrid technology, Toyota has been expanding its hybrid footprint far past ubiquitous models like the Prius and has been expanding the use of the gas-electric combination powertrains on popular mainstream models like the Camry.
However, the Japanese marque's updated new model is packaging its hybrid tech in a cool, rugged package.
Toyota's new, redesigned Tacoma mid-size pickup truck is its first significant major update in roughly 15 years. Its new, sleek body builds on the chiseled looks of the outgoing model and plays host to a whole host of new features that make it more capable on and off-road.
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The new Tacoma - or "'Taco," as dubbed by loyal enthusiasts, adds in some long overdue upgrades on some now-ancient technology that affects its general performance. For the first time, disc brakes on all four wheels are standard, as well as electric power steering and an available multi-link rear coil suspension system.
But the main attraction of the brand new 'Taco lies under the hood of the sleek, new machine. Gone is the option of a powerful, 278 horsepower V6, and in its place are 2.4 liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engines that make from 228 to 278 horsepower in a high-performance i-FORCE variant.
However, available on certain higher trim levels is a hybrid engine that Toyota calls i-FORCE MAX. Despite it being a hybrid, the i-FORCE MAX engine is claimed to be the most powerful engine ever offered on this model, which combines the upgraded high-performance i-FORCE engine with a 48-horsepower electric motor bolted directly to the gearbox. Together, it makes 326 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft of torque - which is double the pushing power of the outgoing V6.
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Toyota claims that the hybrid powertrain allows the new Tacoma to effortlessly ascend hills and makes for a smoother ride.
Inside, the new 'Tacos" get new, comfortable seating that features a higher seating position, as well as large digital screens with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
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LED lighting and the Toyota Safety Sense suite of driver assist systems come standard, but a long list of features and accessories featuring items like rugged off-road armor, surround lighting, a bed-mounted air compressor, 400-watt power outlet, 360-degree cameras and a JBL audio system with a removable, dashboard-mounted Bluetooth speaker are all available on various trim levels.
Toyota (TM) -) expects the new 2024 non-hybrid Tacoma models to arrive at Toyota dealerships in December 2023, with hybrid i-FORCE MAX models to follow in Spring 2024. Toyota prices the non-hybrid Tacoma with an MSRP of $31,500 to $52,100. MSRP for i-FORCE MAX models, including the top trim, hybrid-only TRD Pro and Trailhunter models will be announced closer to the on-sale date.
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