The Toyota Tacoma is one of America's most popular and reliable trucks, but it's not exactly known for being a hardcore off-roader. Sure, the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro model offers some nice upgrades like Fox shocks, skid plates, and a locking rear differential, but it's still a relatively mild-mannered machine compared to some of its rivals. That's why I was intrigued when I heard that Toyota was launching a new variant of the Tacoma for 2024 called the Trailhunter. This is not just another trim level with cosmetic tweaks and a fancy badge. This is a serious attempt by Toyota to make the Tacoma pickup a contender in the growing segment of midsize trucks that can tackle any terrain.
I got the chance to drive the 2024 Toyota Tacoma Trailhunter on some of the most challenging trails in Colorado, and I have to say, I was impressed. This truck is not messing around when it comes to off-road capability. Its features make it stand out from the rest of the Toyota Tacoma lineup and even from some of its competitors. Here are some of the highlights:
- A 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission.
- A part-time four-wheel-drive system with a two-speed transfer case and an electronically controlled locking rear differential.
- A specially tuned suspension with Bilstein shocks, progressive-rate springs, and increased wheel travel.
- A 1-inch lift kit that raises the ground clearance to 10 inches, along with larger fender flares that accommodate 33-inch all-terrain tires on 17-inch alloy wheels.
- A unique front bumper with an integrated skid plate and tow hooks, a steel rear bumper with a hitch receiver and a full-size spare tire mounted underneath.
- A TRD-branded snorkel that helps the engine breathe better in dusty or watery conditions.
- A roof rack with crossbars and tie-downs, an optional bed rack with a tonneau cover and a tent.
- An exclusive exterior color called Army Green, along with black accents on the grille, mirrors, door handles, and badges.
- A rugged interior with cloth seats, rubber floor mats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio and cruise controls.
- A 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM, and Wi-Fi hotspot.
- A suite of safety features that include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear parking sensors.
As you can see, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma Trailhunter is not your average Tacoma. It's a truck that's designed to take you places where most other trucks can't go. And it does so with confidence and ease. I was amazed by how well it handled the rocky, muddy, steep, and narrow trails that we encountered during our drive. The truck never felt out of its element or overwhelmed by the obstacles. It just plowed through them with grace and power.
