Are All New Toyota Tacomas 4 Cylinders Available Now

Not all new Toyota Tacomas are 4 cylinders anymore. The latest Tacoma lineup offers both a powerful 2.4L turbo 4-cylinder and a tried-and-true V6 engine depending on the trim. Whether you want maximum fuel economy or top-tier towing power, Toyota has an option for you. Here is everything you need to know about the current Tacoma engine choices.

Key Takeaways

• The new Tacoma is not entirely 4-cylinder: Toyota now offers both a 2.4L turbo 4-cylinder and a 3.4L twin-turbo V6 across different trims.
• The base 4-cylinder engine delivers strong fuel economy: You can expect around 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway with the i-FORCE MAX 4-cylinder.
• The V6 option returns for higher trims: The 3.4L twin-turbo V6 produces 326 horsepower and is available on TRD Pro and Limited trims.
• AWD is available on most trims: Unlike some trucks like the Dodge Challenger, which has limited AWD options, the Tacoma offers AWD across many configurations.
• The 4-cylinder is perfect for daily drivers: Most buyers who use their Tacoma for commuting and light hauling will be happy with the 4-cylinder.
• Pricing stays competitive: The 4-cylinder models start around $30,000, making the Tacoma more accessible than ever.

The Short Answer: Are All New Tacomas 4-Cylinders?

Here is the quick answer. No, not all new Toyota Tacomas are 4 cylinders. Toyota redesigned the Tacoma for the 2024 model year, and the engine lineup changed in a big way. The base models now come with a 2.4-liter turbo 4-cylinder engine. But Toyota also kept a V6 option for buyers who want more power. So the answer depends on which trim you look at.

If you are shopping for a new Tacoma, you need to know which engine comes with which trim. This guide covers everything. We will break down the engine options, compare them side by side, and help you decide which one fits your needs. Whether you want the best fuel economy or the most towing power, there is a Tacoma engine for you.

What Engines Are Available in the New Toyota Tacoma?

Toyota gave the 2024 and 2025 Tacoma a serious update. The engine choices are more important now than ever. Let us look at what is under the hood.

The 2.4L Turbo 4-Cylinder (i-FORCE MAX)

The new 2.4-liter twin-scroll turbo 4-cylinder is the star of the base Tacoma lineup. This engine produces 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. That is a big jump from the old 2.7-liter 4-cylinder that Toyota used to offer. The i-FORCE MAX engine pairs with an 8-speed automatic transmission and comes standard on the base SR and SR5 trims.

Here are some quick specs for the 4-cylinder Tacoma:

• Engine: 2.4L twin-scroll turbo 4-cylinder
• Horsepower: 278 hp
• Torque: 317 lb-ft
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic
• Fuel Economy (2WD): 22 city / 28 highway mpg
• Fuel Economy (AWD): 20 city / 24 highway mpg

One thing that surprises a lot of buyers is how refined this 4-cylinder sounds and feels. It does not sound or run like a typical 4-cylinder truck engine. Toyota tuned it well. If you have ever wondered whether you should hold the push start button when starting your Tacoma, the answer is no. Just press it and go. The engine starts right up.

The 3.4L Twin-Turbo V6 (i-FORCE)

Toyota also brought back the V6 for the new Tacoma. The 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 is a seriously powerful engine. It makes 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. This engine is available on the TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and Limited trims. It pairs with a 6-speed automatic transmission and comes standard with AWD.

Here are the V6 specs at a glance:

• Engine: 3.4L twin-turbo V6
• Horsepower: 326 hp
• Torque: 465 lb-ft
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic
• Fuel Economy (AWD): 16 city / 19 highway mpg
• Towing Capacity: Up to 6,500 lbs

The V6 is the clear choice if you need serious towing power. The 4-cylinder can tow up to 6,400 pounds when properly equipped, but the V6 gives you a little extra peace of mind for heavy loads.

Tacoma Trim Levels and Engine Choices

Toyota offers the Tacoma in several trims. Each trim comes with a specific engine. Here is how it breaks down:

SR and SR5 Trims

The base SR and mid-level SR5 trims come with the 2.4L turbo 4-cylinder engine. These are the most popular trims for daily drivers. They offer a great balance of capability and efficiency. The SR starts at around $30,000, and the SR5 starts at around $33,000. Both trims give you plenty of features for the price.

If you are looking at the SR or SR5, you do not need to worry about missing out on power. The 2.4L turbo 4-cylinder is a strong engine. It handles daily driving, light towing, and even some off-road adventures with ease.

TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro Trims

The TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims come with the 3.4L twin-turbo V6. These are the performance-oriented trims. They include upgraded suspension, skid plates, all-terrain tires, and special styling. The TRD Off-Road starts at around $38,000, and the TRD Pro starts at around $47,000.

If you plan on doing serious off-roading or hauling heavy loads, the V6 is the way to go. The extra torque makes a real difference when you are climbing rocks or pulling a trailer up a steep hill.

Limited Trim

The top-of-the-line Limited trim also gets the V6 engine. It adds luxury features like leather seats, a large touchscreen, and premium audio. The Limited starts at around $48,000. This is the Tacoma for buyers who want capability and comfort in one package.

How Does the 4-Cylinder Compare to the V6?

This is the question most buyers ask. Let us compare the two engines head to head.

Power and Performance

The V6 wins in raw power, hands down. With 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque, the twin-turbo V6 is a beast. The 4-cylinder makes 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, which is still very respectable for a half-ton truck.

In everyday driving, you may not notice a huge difference between the two. The 4-cylinder accelerates smoothly and confidently around town. The V6 feels more urgent when you stomp on the gas, especially when you are passing on the highway or merging onto a busy freeway.

Fuel Economy

The 4-cylinder engine is much more fuel-efficient. You can expect about 6 to 8 mpg better than the V6 in real-world driving. Over time, those fuel savings add up. If you drive a lot or commute daily, the 4-cylinder will save you real money at the pump.

Towing and Payload

Both engines can tow up to 6,400 to 6,500 pounds when properly equipped. The difference is more noticeable when you are towing near the maximum limit. The V6 has more low-end torque, which makes it easier to get a heavy trailer moving from a standstill.

For payload capacity, both engines carry about the same weight. The truck frame and suspension are the same regardless of which engine you choose.

Maintenance and Reliability

Toyota has a strong reputation for reliability with both engine types. The 4-cylinder is a newer design, so long-term durability data is still coming in. The V6 has a proven track record over many years. Keeping your serpentine belt fresh is one simple maintenance step that helps either engine run at its best. Regular oil changes and scheduled services matter for both engines equally.

Who Should Choose the 4-Cylinder Tacoma?

The 4-cylinder Tacoma is a great choice for a lot of buyers. Here are the people who will be most happy with it:

• Daily commuters: If you drive your Tacoma to work every day, the 4-cylinder gives you better fuel economy and lower running costs.
• Light-duty users: If you mostly haul gear, bikes, or small trailers, the 278 hp 4-cylinder has more than enough power.
• Budget-conscious buyers: The base SR and SR5 trims cost less upfront, and the 4-cylinder engine keeps the price tag lower.
• First-time truck buyers: The 4-cylinder Tacoma is easier to park, easier to fuel, and less intimidating than a V6 truck.
• City and suburban drivers: If you do not need maximum towing capacity, the 4-cylinder is the smarter, more efficient choice.

Most people who buy a Tacoma use it as a daily driver first and a work truck second. For these buyers, the 4-cylinder hits the sweet spot between capability and efficiency. It is also worth noting that the 4-cylinder engine is quieter and more refined than older truck 4-cylinders. Toyota put a lot of work into making this engine pleasant to drive every day.

Who Should Choose the V6 Tacoma?

The V6 Tacoma is the better choice for these buyers:

• Heavy towing needs: If you regularly tow trailers, boats, or RVs near the maximum capacity, the V6 gives you more headroom and confidence.
• Off-road enthusiasts: The TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road trims with the V6 are built for serious trails. The extra torque helps you power through mud, sand, and rocks.
• Performance lovers: If you enjoy the feeling of a powerful engine underfoot, the twin-turbo V6 delivers an exciting driving experience.
• Full-time work truck users: Contractors and tradespeople who haul heavy loads every day will appreciate the V6’s extra grunt.

One thing to keep in mind is that the V6 costs more upfront and costs more to fuel. But if you need the power, the extra cost is worth it. Think of it like this: you are paying for capability that you will actually use.

What Buyers Are Saying About the New Tacoma Engine

Early reviews of the new Tacoma have been very positive. Owners love the 4-cylinder engine’s refinement and fuel economy. The V6 gets praise for its strong performance and towing ability. Here are some common themes from real owner feedback:

• The 4-cylinder is surprisingly strong: Many owners say they do not miss the old V6 for daily driving.
• The V6 is a game-changer for towing: Owners who tow regularly say the twin-turbo V6 makes light work of heavy loads.
• Fuel economy is a big win: The 4-cylinder Tacoma gets some of the best gas mileage in the half-ton truck segment.
• The transmission shifts smoothly: Both the 8-speed (4-cylinder) and 6-speed (V6) automatics get good reviews for responsiveness.

Some buyers have concerns about the new 4-cylinder engine simply because it is newer. But Toyota has a long history of building reliable 4-cylinder engines. The 2.4L turbo is based on proven technology that Toyota has refined over years. And with proper maintenance, it should last well beyond 200,000 miles.

How the New Tacoma Stacks Up Against the Competition

Toyota is not the only truck maker offering different engine options. Let us look at how the Tacoma compares to a few competitors.

The Ford Ranger comes standard with a 2.3L turbo 4-cylinder. It does not offer a V6 option. The Chevrolet Colorado offers both a 2.7L turbo 4-cylinder and a 3.0L turbo diesel 4-cylinder, but no traditional V6. The Honda Ridgeline comes with a 3.5L V6 as its only engine option.

What makes the Tacoma unique is that it offers both a 4-cylinder and a V6 in the same lineup. This gives buyers more flexibility to choose the engine that fits their needs. In this way, the Tacoma is more versatile than many of its rivals. It is not as limited as a truck that only offers one engine type, similar to how the Dodge Challenger has limited AWD availability compared to other muscle cars.

Common Mistakes Buyers Make When Choosing a Tacoma Engine

Here are some mistakes to avoid when deciding between the 4-cylinder and V6 Tacoma:

• Choosing the V6 just for the name: If you do not actually need the extra power, you are paying more and getting worse fuel economy for no real benefit.
• Ignoring the 4-cylinder’s towing capacity: The 4-cylinder can still tow 6,400 pounds. That is enough for most boat trailers and small campers.
• Not test-driving both engines: You should experience both engines yourself before making a decision. What feels right to one person may not feel right to another.
• Overlooking total cost of ownership: The V6 costs more to buy and more to fuel. Factor in these costs over 5 or 10 years of ownership.
• Skipping the AWD option: Even with the 4-cylinder, AWD is available and highly recommended if you live in a cold or snowy climate.

Final Thoughts on the New Toyota Tacoma Engine Options

The new Toyota Tacoma is not just a 4-cylinder truck anymore. Toyota gave buyers a real choice this time around. The 2.4L turbo 4-cylinder is a fantastic engine for daily driving and light-duty work. It is efficient, refined, and powerful enough for most needs. The 3.4L twin-turbo V6 is there for buyers who need maximum towing power and off-road capability.

Whether you choose the 4-cylinder or the V6, you are getting a truck that Toyota has engineered with care. The Tacoma remains one of the most popular and reliable trucks on the market. And with both engine options available, it now appeals to an even wider range of buyers.

Before you visit the dealership, think about how you will use your Tacoma. If you need a dependable daily driver with great fuel economy, go with the 4-cylinder. If you need serious towing and off-road performance, the V6 is your match. Either way, you are getting a truck that will serve you well for years to come.

The new Toyota Tacoma proves that you do not have to choose between efficiency and power. Toyota figured out how to give you both, depending on which trim you pick. That is smart engineering and smart marketing. And it is great news for anyone in the market for a new pickup truck.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the new Toyota Tacoma only available with a 4-cylinder engine?

No, the new Tacoma comes with two engine options. The base SR and SR5 trims have a 2.4L turbo 4-cylinder, while the TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and Limited trims have a 3.4L twin-turbo V6. You can choose the engine that fits your needs.

How much horsepower does the 4-cylinder Tacoma make?

The 2.4L twin-scroll turbo 4-cylinder makes 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. That is a significant upgrade from the old 2.7L 4-cylinder that Toyota offered in previous Tacomas.

Can the 4-cylinder Tacoma tow as much as the V6?

Both engines can tow up to about 6,400 to 6,500 pounds when properly equipped. The V6 has a slight edge when towing near the maximum limit because of its extra low-end torque, but the difference is small for most real-world towing situations.

Which Tacoma trim is the best value?

The SR5 trim is widely considered the best value. It comes well-equipped with the 4-cylinder engine, AWD availability, and a good list of standard features at a reasonable price point around $33,000.

Is the 4-cylinder Tacoma reliable for long-term ownership?

Toyota has a strong track record with 4-cylinder engines. The new 2.4L turbo is based on proven technology, and with regular maintenance, it should easily last 200,000+ miles. Always follow the recommended service schedule for the best results.

Does the Tacoma 4-cylinder get good gas mileage?

Yes, the 4-cylinder Tacoma gets an estimated 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway for the 2WD model. That is excellent fuel economy for a half-ton truck and makes it a great choice for daily commuters.

=== CONCLUSION ===

The question “Are all new Toyota Tacomas 4 cylinders?” has a clear answer: no. Toyota now offers both a 2.4L turbo 4-cylinder and a 3.4L twin-turbo V6 across the Tacoma lineup. The 4-cylinder is the standard engine on base and mid-level trims, delivering strong performance and excellent fuel economy. The V6 is reserved for higher trims and delivers maximum towing power and off-road capability.

Both engines are well-engineered and reliable. Your choice comes down to how you plan to use your Tacoma. For most buyers, the 4-cylinder is the smarter, more efficient choice. For those who need serious power, the V6 is the clear winner. Either way, the new Toyota Tacoma is a truck that delivers on all fronts.

Take your time, test drive both engines, and pick the Tacoma that fits your lifestyle. You will not be disappointed with either choice.