Introduction
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 stands out as one of the most versatile and reliable mid-size trucks today. Known for its rugged build, impressive off-road capabilities, and solid performance, the Tacoma SR5 offers a well-rounded package for both work and play. Whether you’re looking for a daily driver or a truck to handle tough terrains, the 2024 SR5 delivers on all fronts with its upgraded technology, powerful engine options, and durable design.
In this blog, we’ll dive into the top features of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 that make it a standout choice for drivers. From its impressive specs and pricing details to a detailed comparison with the SR trim, we’ll give you a comprehensive look at what makes the SR5 an exceptional pickup. Whether you’re considering purchasing or just curious about its features, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 Price
Base Price and Value for Money
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 starts with a competitive base price, making it an attractive option for those looking for a mid-size truck that combines performance, durability, and value. The base price typically falls in the $30,000-$35,000 range, depending on your location and the dealership, making it more affordable than many other trucks in its class, like the Ford Ranger or Chevy Colorado.
At this price point, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 comes with a solid set of features, including a 3.5-liter V6 engine, Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and standard Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. The SR5 offers great value by providing essential features and modern tech right out of the gate, ensuring that drivers can enjoy both functionality and convenience without having to break the bank. For truck buyers looking for an all-around reliable vehicle with off-road capabilities and a robust set of standard features, the SR5 offers an excellent starting point.
Optional Packages and Add-Ons
While the base price of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 offers a strong value, Toyota also provides various trims and optional packages to further customize the truck to suit specific needs. For example, buyers can opt for the TRD Off-Road package, which adds features like multi-terrain select, an upgraded suspension system, and additional off-road performance enhancements, Ideal for explorers looking to take their truck off-road and discover uncharted terrain.
Additionally, there are optional Technology Packages, which include an upgraded 8-inch touchscreen, navigation system, and more advanced safety features like Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. These enhancements make the SR5 even more appealing for those seeking more tech-oriented options, without jumping up to the higher trims like the TRD Pro.
Price Differences Between the SR5 and Other Tacoma Variants
When compared to other Tacoma variants, the SR5 falls in the mid-range pricing spectrum. The base SR trim is more affordable, typically starting at a lower price point (around $28,000), but it lacks many of the advanced features found in the SR5. On the other end, the TRD Pro trim is the top-of-the-line model, with pricing starting closer to $45,000—offering enhanced off-road capabilities, premium interior finishes, and other luxury features.
Choosing the SR5 allows you to enjoy a great balance of features and performance without the higher cost associated with premium trims.
Long-Term Cost of Ownership
One of the biggest draws of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 is its reputation for reliability and low long-term cost of ownership. Toyota vehicles, particularly the Tacoma, have long been known for their exceptional durability, and the Tacoma SR5 is no exception. The truck holds its value well over time, making it an excellent option for those who want a vehicle that will last many years with proper care.
In addition, Toyota’s relatively low repair and maintenance costs contribute to the Tacoma’s strong resale value. While maintenance costs can vary depending on location, Tacoma owners often enjoy fewer repairs compared to competitors in the same category, helping keep overall costs down. Furthermore, Toyota’s 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and 2-year complimentary maintenance program add peace of mind for the first few years of ownership.
Comparison with Competitors’ Pricing
When comparing the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 to similar models, it offers solid value for the price. The Ford Ranger, for example, starts at around $27,000, which is slightly lower than the SR5 but lacks the comprehensive feature set and off-road capability of the Tacoma. The Chevrolet Colorado, another key competitor, starts around $26,000, but similarly, it does not offer the same level of reliability and long-term resale value that the Tacoma provides.
Additionally, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5’s off-road-ready features and Toyota’s reputation for longevity make it a strong contender in the mid-size truck category, despite similar competitors being priced similarly or slightly lower.
2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 Specs
Engine Options and Performance
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 offers two distinct engine options, providing a balance between power and efficiency to meet a variety of driving needs.
- 2.7-Liter 4-Cylinder Engine
The base engine option for the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 is a 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. This engine is perfect for drivers who prioritize efficiency over outright power but still want a solid performance for everyday driving and light-duty work. It comes paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. - 3.5-Liter V6 Engine
For those seeking more power, the 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, making it the more popular choice among Tacoma owners. This engine provides significantly more towing power and better overall performance, especially when it comes to off-road and heavy-duty driving. The V6 engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission, giving drivers some flexibility depending on their driving preferences.
Compared to other mid-size trucks like the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado, the Tacoma’s V6 engine puts it near the top of the segment in terms of performance. The Ford Ranger’s 2.3-liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine offers 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, while the Chevrolet Colorado offers a 3.6-liter V6 engine that generates 308 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. While the Tacoma V6 falls slightly behind in horsepower, it is often preferred for its better off-road performance and overall durability.
Towing and Payload Capacity
One of the strongest selling points of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 is its impressive towing and payload capabilities. These features make the Tacoma SR5 an excellent choice for both work and recreation.
- Towing Capacity
When equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 engine, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 has a towing capacity of up to 6,800 pounds. This is on par with or superior to many competitors in the mid-size truck category. Whether you’re hauling a boat, trailer, or camper, the Tacoma’s towing capacity ensures it can handle a wide range of heavy-duty tasks. In comparison, the Ford Ranger offers a towing capacity of up to 7,500 pounds when equipped with its 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, while the Chevrolet Colorado offers up to 7,700 pounds of towing capacity with its V6 engine. While Tacoma is slightly behind in towing capacity, it remains competitive and offers robust towing abilities for most recreational and work-related tasks. (If towing isn’t a primary concern for you, and you’re more interested in a vehicle with great fuel efficiency for daily commuting, the Ford Escape MPG might be worth considering. With impressive fuel economy ratings, it offers a smart choice for those seeking both versatility and efficiency in an SUV.) - Payload Capacity
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 also excels in payload capacity, with the ability to carry 1,440 pounds of cargo in its bed. This is great for carrying tools, gear, or building materials. Many buyers will appreciate the SR5’s bed space and its versatility for work projects, camping trips, or road trips. When compared to competitors, the Ford Ranger has a slightly higher payload capacity, offering 1,860 pounds of maximum payload, while the Chevrolet Colorado offers up to 1,550 pounds. The 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 still holds its ground with a strong payload capacity that can handle most recreational and professional needs.
Fuel Economy
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 is designed to offer a balance between power and efficiency, making it suitable for both everyday commutes and long road trips. Its fuel economy is quite competitive, especially for a truck with impressive towing capabilities.
- 4-Cylinder Engine Fuel Economy
The 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine offers an estimated 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. This is quite efficient for a truck and makes it a great option for those who drive primarily on paved roads and are looking to save on fuel costs. - V6 Engine Fuel Economy
For those who opt for the 3.5-liter V6 engine, the estimated fuel economy is 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. While it’s slightly less efficient than the 4-cylinder, it’s still impressive considering the additional power and towing capacity it provides.
When compared to competitors, the Ford Ranger offers a fuel economy of 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway for its 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine. The Chevrolet Colorado, with its 3.6-liter V6 engine, delivers an estimated 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, which is a little better on the highway but not as efficient overall as the Tacoma V6.
While the Tacoma may not have the absolute best fuel economy in its class, it strikes a great balance between performance, towing capacity, and fuel efficiency, especially considering its superior off-road capabilities and overall durability.
What is the Difference Between the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 and SR?
Trim-Level Comparison
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR and SR5 trims both belong to Toyota’s lineup of mid-size trucks. Still, the SR5 offers several upgrades that make it a more premium choice, especially for those who are looking for extra comfort, technology, and convenience features.
- Exterior Features
The SR trim comes with a more basic design, with 16-inch steel wheels, black bumpers, and a simpler grille. While it’s still a solid and durable truck, the focus on practicality means fewer aesthetic upgrades than the SR5.
The SR5, on the other hand, offers several upgrades to enhance its visual appeal. It includes 16-inch alloy wheels, chrome accents on the grille and bumpers, and available color-matched side mirrors. The SR5 also offers more color options, giving buyers a greater selection for personalization. - Interior Features
Inside, the SR trim is equipped with durable fabric upholstery, a standard 7-inch touchscreen, and basic tech like Bluetooth connectivity and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. It’s simple but functional, designed for buyers who need a no-frills vehicle that still provides the essentials.
The SR5 trim improves upon this with upgraded upholstery options (including premium cloth or available leather) and an 8-inch touchscreen for a better infotainment experience. It also includes dual-zone automatic climate control for added comfort and additional storage spaces for convenience. The SR5 trim adds more features to enhance comfort and ease of use, making it better suited for buyers who want both work utility and daily driving convenience.
Performance and Engine Variants
Both the SR and SR5 trims share the same engine options, giving buyers the ability to select between a more efficient 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine or a more powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine.
- 4-Cylinder Engine
The base 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine produces 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. It’s a reliable engine for everyday driving, but it lacks the towing capacity and performance that comes with the V6. This engine is standard on the SR but is also available as an option for the SR5 for those looking to save on fuel costs. - V6 Engine
The 3.5-liter V6 engine, available on both the SR and SR5 trims, delivers 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. It offers much better towing power, performance, and off-road capabilities compared to the 4-cylinder. The V6 engine is where the SR5 shines, especially when paired with its enhanced suspension system and higher ground clearance (standard in the SR5), which improves handling and off-road readiness.
Both trims can be equipped with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission, but the SR5 may offer more advanced off-road options like the TRD Off-Road package, which is not available on the SR trim. - Towing and Power
While both trims are capable of handling light and heavy loads, the V6 engine in the SR5 offers superior towing power. With the V6, the SR5 has a towing capacity of 6,800 pounds, compared to the SR’s 3,500-pound maximum towing capacity when equipped with the 4-cylinder engine. The SR5 is therefore better suited for those who require higher towing capacity for trailers, boats, or RVs.
Price and Value for Money
When it comes to price, the SR trim is the more budget-friendly option, typically starting at around $28,000 for the 4-cylinder model. It provides the basic features that a driver might need, with room for customization through various packages, but it is overall more utilitarian.
On the other hand, the SR5 trim starts at around $30,000 and goes up depending on the options selected, such as the V6 engine or additional packages. The price difference between the two trims is relatively modest when you consider the added features and upgrades the SR5 provides.
- What Extra Features Does the SR5 Offer for the Price Difference?
The SR5 trim justifies the price difference with several added features, such as:- Upgraded interior features like a larger 8-inch touchscreen, better audio system options, and more storage compartments.
- Exterior upgrades such as alloy wheels, chrome accents, and color-matched mirrors, enhance the truck’s overall appearance.
- Higher-end technology including dual-zone climate control, an upgraded gauge cluster, and the option for more advanced safety features like Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, which come standard or as part of packages for the SR5.
- Off-road capabilities: If you’re someone who enjoys taking their truck off the beaten path, the SR5’s upgraded suspension system and available TRD Off-Road package make it a more capable off-roading vehicle.
Overall, the SR5 trim is well worth the extra cost for those who want a more premium, feature-rich truck. It offers additional comfort, improved technology, and better performance, particularly when considering the V6 engine option, towing capacity, and off-road capabilities. For those who don’t need the extra features, the SR trim offers excellent value at a lower price point and is still a highly capable vehicle.
2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 Interior
Interior Design and Comfort
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 offers a balanced combination of practicality and comfort, designed to make both short commutes and long trips enjoyable. The interior quality in the SR5 is a step above the more basic SR trim, with an emphasis on durability and functionality, making it a great choice for both work and recreation.
- Seating Options and Materials
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 offers premium fabric upholstery as standard, which is durable and designed to withstand the wear and tear of daily use, especially for those who frequently drive off-road or engage in outdoor activities. The seats are comfortable and provide good support, even on longer drives.
For those who prefer a more luxurious feel, available leather upholstery elevates the interior experience. Leather-trimmed seats are optional in the SR5, adding a more upscale touch to the cabin, and providing added comfort, especially in terms of ease of cleaning and overall tactile quality. - Space and Design Aesthetics
While the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 is a mid-size truck, the interior space is thoughtfully designed to maximize comfort and functionality. Front-row seating is spacious with ample legroom and headroom, making it comfortable for adults of all sizes. The rear seats, however, are more suited for shorter trips, with less rear legroom than some of its competitors, making it a truck better suited for front-seat passengers or occasional rear-seat use.
The design of the cabin combines rugged utility with modern aesthetics, including a straightforward layout of the dashboard and controls. The design uses durable materials, with clean lines and well-organized features to maintain the truck’s workhorse qualities while offering a contemporary look and feel.
Technology and Infotainment Features
The technology in the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 is one of the highlights of the trim, offering a balance of essential connectivity and comfort-focused features.
- Standard 8-Inch Touchscreen
The SR5 comes equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard, which provides a larger, more user-friendly display compared to the smaller screen found in the base SR trim. This larger screen makes navigation, media controls, and system settings easier to manage while driving. - Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard features in the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5, allowing seamless integration with smartphones. This means you can easily access navigation apps, music, messages, and other features directly from the touchscreen, offering a more connected and hands-free driving experience. The ability to use popular apps through these systems helps keep you focused on the road while staying connected. - Toyota’s Entune System
The SR5 also comes with Toyota’s Entune™ 3.0 system, which offers various functions like hands-free calling, text messaging, and access to features like Amazon Alexa and Scout GPS Link for navigation. The system is fairly intuitive, though some users may find the interface not as polished as competitors’ infotainment systems (such as Ford’s SYNC system). However, Toyota continues to improve Entune with regular updates and enhancements. - Available Upgrades
For tech enthusiasts, the SR5 also offers available upgrades like an upgraded JBL audio system and an integrated navigation system for those who prefer more advanced in-car tech. Additionally, Qi wireless charging and SiriusXM satellite radio are available as part of additional packages, giving you a more customized tech experience.
Storage and Utility
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 is designed with practicality in mind, providing excellent storage and utility options inside the cabin, ensuring that both drivers and passengers can carry all the gear they need.
- Smart Storage Solutions
Inside the cabin, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 includes a variety of smart storage solutions designed to keep your belongings organized and easily accessible. The truck features a center console with ample space for smaller items, as well as additional cupholders and door pockets. The armrest storage compartment is large enough to hold tablets or smaller devices.
The rear seats in the extended cab can also be folded up to provide extra cargo space, which is perfect for stowing gear or tools when needed. While the rear seats themselves may not be the most spacious, the flexible storage options help keep your cabin organized. - Cargo Space and Truck Bed Size
The truck bed of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 is designed to handle heavy-duty hauling, with the 5-foot-long bed being the most common configuration. The bed comes with standard tie-down points and bed cleats, allowing you to secure cargo with ease. There is also an available deck rail system for enhanced cargo management.
Compared to competitors like the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5’s bed is about the same length, but the Toyota’s durable composite bed liner and available wet-storage compartments give it an edge for keeping things organized and clean. The Ford Ranger offers a slightly longer 6-foot bed, but this extra space may not always be necessary for the typical Tacoma buyer, especially those who value Toyota’s legendary reliability and off-road prowess. The Chevrolet Colorado has a similar bed size to the Tacoma, though Toyota’s composite bed material tends to be more durable over time. - Utility for Hauling Needs
Whether you’re hauling camping gear, tools, or recreational equipment, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5‘s cargo space and hauling capacity make it a versatile choice. For those who need more carrying capacity or work-specific tools, the Tacoma SR5 is highly customizable with bed extenders and various bed accessories like bed liners and toolboxes. The truck is ideal for both personal and professional use, offering the utility needed for everyday tasks.
2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5: Off-Road Capabilities and Durability
Off-Road Features of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 is built to tackle both on-road and off-road challenges with ease. Toyota’s dedication to off-road capability is evident in the SR5 trim, which comes equipped with a range of features specifically designed to enhance its performance when the pavement ends.
- TRD Off-Road Features
The SR5 trim can be upgraded with Toyota’s TRD Off-Road package, which includes a host of off-road enhancements that give the truck excellent traction, handling, and stability on difficult terrain. This package includes:- Bilstein shocks: These high-performance shocks improve suspension travel and provide greater control when navigating rough trails, absorbing bumps and dips with ease.
- Locking rear differential: This feature ensures both rear wheels rotate at the same speed for improved traction on slippery or uneven surfaces, like mud, sand, or snow.
- Multi-Terrain Select: This system allows drivers to select specific settings for various types of off-road terrain, such as mud, rocks, or loose sand. It adjusts throttle response and braking to provide the best possible control in different conditions.
- Crawl Control: Crawl Control (also known as “off-road cruise control”) helps maintain a steady speed while navigating challenging terrains, allowing the driver to focus on steering and obstacles rather than acceleration.
- 4WD System, Suspension, and Ground Clearance
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 comes with a 4WD system that ensures maximum traction and stability, whether you’re driving on snow, sand, or rocky trails. The system is designed to send power to all four wheels when needed, making it an ideal choice for off-roading adventures. The SR5’s suspension system is upgraded to provide excellent wheel articulation, which is essential for climbing over obstacles and keeping all four wheels in contact with the ground. The ground clearance on the SR5 is also optimized for off-roading, with a clearance of 9.4 inches (when equipped with the TRD Off-Road package), allowing the truck to handle uneven surfaces, rocks, and logs without scraping the undercarriage. This is particularly beneficial when navigating tight trails and rough roads.
Durability and Reliability of 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5
Toyota has built a strong reputation for creating durable and reliable vehicles, and the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 is no exception. The truck’s construction and design make it one of the most reliable vehicles in its class, especially when it comes to off-road performance.
- Build Quality and Long-Lasting Performance
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 is built to last, with a focus on durability in challenging environments. The frame is constructed from high-strength steel, ensuring the truck can withstand heavy-duty use over time without compromising safety. The suspension components are reinforced, offering both durability and flexibility for off-road driving. Additionally, Toyota uses high-quality materials for critical components, such as the transmission, engine, and differentials, ensuring long-lasting performance even under the strain of off-roading. Owners often report that Tacomas are among the most long-lived trucks, with many models reaching over 200,000 miles when properly maintained. - Toyota’s Reputation for Durability
Toyota’s legendary reputation for durability, especially in tough conditions, is a significant draw for off-road enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The Tacoma is widely regarded as one of the most rugged trucks on the market, capable of handling everything from muddy trails to snow-covered roads to rocky desert landscapes.
The SR5 trim builds on this reputation, offering not only durability but also advanced technologies that help enhance its off-road capabilities. The combination of the truck’s tough build and Toyota’s innovative off-road technologies ensures that the SR5 can handle almost any terrain with confidence and ease.
Comparison with Competitors
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 faces competition from other popular off-road trucks in the mid-size segment, including the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado. Here’s how the SR5 stacks up against these rivals:
- Ford Ranger
The 2024 Ford Ranger offers a 4WD system and Trail Control (Ford’s version of Crawl Control) for off-road adventures, but it lacks some of the specific off-road features that the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 offers, like Multi-Terrain Select and the locking rear differential. While the Ranger is a solid off-road performer, its off-road package is not as feature-rich as the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5’s TRD Off-Road package. Additionally, Tacoma’s higher ground clearance provides better obstacle clearance on rough trails. - Chevrolet Colorado
The Chevrolet Colorado also offers a 4WD system and Z71 off-road package for enhanced performance, with features like Monroe shocks, hill descent control, and locking rear differential. However, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 tends to outperform the Colorado in terms of reliability and long-term durability. Toyota’s focus on rugged construction and the brand’s reputation for holding up well in tough conditions gives the Tacoma an edge, especially in areas where durability is crucial, like the desert or mountainous terrain.
In terms of off-road capability, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 generally holds its ground with superior suspension, better ground clearance, and more comprehensive off-road features compared to the Ranger and Colorado. Additionally, Toyota’s extensive experience with off-road racing (notably in events like the Baja 1000) makes the Tacoma a more proven performer on extreme terrain.
Conclusion
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 is an impressive mid-size truck, offering a perfect balance of reliability, capability, and advanced features. From its rugged off-road features to its comfortable interior, the SR5 provides an unmatched driving experience, whether you’re tackling tough terrain or navigating city streets. With TRD Off-Road enhancements, a spacious interior, and an impressive suite of tech features, the Tacoma SR5 is designed to cater to both work and play.
The SR5 trim is a fantastic choice for buyers who are seeking a reliable, durable, and feature-packed truck. Whether you’re using it for everyday tasks, off-roading adventures, or weekend getaways, the Tacoma SR5 delivers on all fronts. Toyota’s reputation for long-lasting durability, combined with cutting-edge off-road technology and comfort-focused features, makes the SR5 a top contender in the mid-size truck market.
If you’re considering a new truck, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 should be at the top of your list. We highly recommend exploring all the features in person and taking them for a test drive to experience the exceptional performance, comfort, and reliability that the Tacoma SR5 has to offer. Don’t miss out on the chance to discover why this truck is perfect for you – whether for adventure, work or simply enjoying the ride!