While we’ve already put this new fourth-generation Toyota Tacoma to the test, this is our first chance to get behind the wheel of a 2024 Tacoma with the new i-Force Max powertrain.

I-Force Max is Toyota’s name for the hybrid-assisted version of their 2.4-liter turbo-four engine. Replacing the no longer available 3.5-liter V6, this performance-oriented hybrid cranks output up to 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque; 48 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of that torque coming from an electric motor that’s integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission.

It’s also packing four-wheel drive as standard, and a 1.9-kWh battery pack located under the rear seat just as in the Tundra hybrid. Toyota claims 23-Combined MPG for a TRD Off-Road, a 28% improvement over the V6.
The i-Force Max is available in TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and Limited Tacomas, while coming standard in the Trailhunter and TRD Pro. And after some SoCal seat time both on and off-road, it’s clear the i-Force Max delivers the goods.

BRIAN ROBINSON: “Say what you will about turbos, and you can complain about the hybrid assistance as well. Bottom line, there’s 200 more lb-ft of torque here than in the V6 and you can feel it. This thing is a monster, and it’s smoother and quieter than the V6 ever was.”

And if you’re going to go this route, you might as well opt for one of the TRDs, as they’re more legit off-road than ever before; the TRD Pro coming with Fox shocks as part of the unique TRD suspension, front stabilizer bar disconnect, 33-inch all-terrains, steel bumpers, skid plates, and even some available IsoDynamic performance front seats with their own shock absorbers enabling you to float over the harshest terrain. The Trailhunter kicks it up a notch with a host of aftermarket add-ons from Old Man Emu, Rigid, and ARB, plus bronze wheels and trim.

Living at the higher end of the Tacoma lineup means Double Cab only, with either a 5- or 6-foot bed, but you’ll get plenty of creature comforts inside, including a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, 10-speaker JBL audio with portable speaker, and either an 8- or 14-inch touchscreen display.

While 2024 Toyota Tacoma pricing starts at around $32,000, getting i-Force Max power will cost you at least $46,000. And we’ll have more Quick Spins… soon!