The 2025 Toyota Tacoma is Ready for Adventure
12/17/2024
Toyota
After debuting its fourth-generation last year to great fanfare, the Toyota Tacoma returns for 2025 to continue its dominant off-road legacy. Set to become America's best-selling mid-size pickup for the past two decades, Tacoma gains some key upgrades for the new model year, such as new easy access red front tow hooks for TRD Pro and Trailhunter grades, a fourth available pre-wired aux switch, and the new TRD Pro color, Mudbath.
Tacoma provides customers with a choice of two impressive powertrains. The available i-FORCE MAX hybrid produces up to 326 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque and is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering up to an EPA estimated 24 MPG combined rating. The standard i-FORCE 2.4L turbocharged engine also brings the excitement with up to 278 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque while getting up to an EPA estimated 26 MPG (Hwy). Enthusiasts will be pleased to know that a six-speed intelligent manual transmission (iMT) with rev matching and stall avoidance technology is also available on i-FORCE models.
The Tacoma embraces its overlanding prowess and takes them to the next level with the Trailhunter grade. Trailhunter builds upon Toyota's legendary off-road credibility with purpose-built engineering and robust components. Exclusively powered by i-FORCE MAX and available in a choice of 5-or 6-foot bed configurations, it includes standard features like Old Man Emu(R) 2.5-inch forged monotube shocks with rear external piggyback style remote reservoirs, a low-profile high-mount air intake, 33-inch Goodyear(R) Rugged-Terrain tires with 18-in bronze-finished wheels, and unique exterior features like RIGID Industries(R) color selectable LED fog lamps and a bronze-colored "TOYOTA" heritage-inspired grille with an integrated LED Light Bar.
The Baja-racing inspired TRD Pro is also an i-FORCE MAX exclusive grade that offers the segment-first, standard IsoDynamic Performance Front Seats, which use an air-over-oil shock absorber system allowing for vertical and lateral seat movement simultaneously to help reduce body movement and stabilize the head and neck to keep alignment with the spine. TRD Pro also packs in additional standard features like a TRD-Tuned FOX(R) Quick Switch 3 (QS3) adjustable internal bypass shocks with rear remote reservoirs, a TRD performance air intake, 33-inch Goodyear(R) tires with 18-in black alloy wheels, and available two-tone exterior paint.
Tacoma is available in 2-Wheel, part-time 4-Wheel and Full-time 4-Wheel Drive. Most i-FORCE MAX grades come standard with 4-Wheel Drive that is ready for the road or trail. The Limited grades have Full-time 4-Wheel Drive with an electronic locking center differential. The smooth-riding Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) is now standard on all Limited grades.
The 2025 Tacoma models are expected to arrive at Toyota dealerships this winter. The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starts at $31,590, excluding Delivery Processing and Handling.
Ready to Ride
The Tacoma utilizes Toyota's TNGA-F global truck platform shared with the Tundra, Land Cruiser, and Sequoia. Much like its brethren, high-strength steel with blanking and laser welds are used throughout the chassis to increase rigidity over the previous generation, and aluminum is used on the upper body to reduce weight. Frame crossmembers were also strengthened to increase durability. A standard high lift jack point is also integrated into the rear frame end.
One leap forward for the fourth-generation Tacoma is a fully redesigned coil spring multi-link rear suspension. Available on most grades, this suspension improves overall ride and handling for a new Tacoma for excellent on- or off-road manners.
Also enhancing ride and handling characteristics on Tacoma are suspensions tuned specifically to each grade. For instance, TRD Sport has TRD Sport-tuned shocks for a more responsive feel. The TRD Off-Road grade is equipped with monotube Bilstein(R) remote reservoir shocks for extended wheel travel and greater heat dissipation and includes an end stop control valve (ESCV) that provides increased damping force as the suspension comes closer to full bound stroke.
TRD Pro comes fitted with TRD-tuned FOX(R) QS3 three-way adjustable internal bypass shocks with remote reservoirs for improved high speed off-road performance, and external FOX Internal Floating Piston (IFP) rear bump stops to improve bottom out feel. Trailhunter includes Old Man Emu(R) (OME) forged monotube shocks with remote reservoirs that are tuned for optimum levels of off-road control and load carrying capability.
The Limited grades feature an Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system that constantly adjusts damping forces based on changing road conditions. The linear-solenoid-type AVS system features built-in actuators in the front and rear shock absorbers to continuously change damping force based on road conditions to help give the Tacoma a smooth and luxurious ride.
All Tacoma grades come with standard disc brakes on the front and rear, providing improved driving dynamics and allowing for correlation of damping force to the amount of brake pedal pressure for easier pedal control in daily use and reduced fatigue.
Tacoma features Electric Power Steering (EPS) to provide improved steering feel and facilitate the incorporation of additional safety and convenience features.
MAXimum Capability
Tacoma's legendary off-road capability is taken to the next level, making it the ultimate adventure machine. One stand-out feature is the Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism (SDM). Standard on Trailhunter and TRD Pro and available on TRD Off-Road, SDM increases suspension articulation across the whole vehicle at the push of a button and will even be compatible with Toyota-approved lift kits.
TRD Off-Road, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter drivers can view potential obstacles that are looming on the trail via the Multi-Terrain Monitor that can display crisply on the available 14-inch touchscreen. For the sketchiest of situations, Tacoma offers standard underbody protection and front recovery points, with additional protection and rear recovery points standard on TRD Pro and Trailhunter.
Multi-Terrain Select, which is functional in both 4WD-High and 4WD-Low, offers adjustable settings to help control wheel spin on a variety of terrain such as Mud, Dirt, and Sand. Tacoma also makes available Toyota's next-generation CRAWL Control technology that acts as a low-speed, off-road cruise control. When traction is extremely limited, the available electronically activated locking rear differential can help split power sent to the rear 50/50 between the rear wheels. Downhill Assist Control is another off-road feature available and helps the driver navigate descents by limiting the speed of the vehicle.
Tacoma buyers need their truck to meet a wide variety of demands. Pulling a trailer, boat or UTV means towing capability is a crucial feature. Fortunately, Tacoma is up to the challenge thanks to its maximum towing capacity of up to 6,500 lbs. and maximum payload of up to 1,705 lbs.
Those impressive towing numbers are paired with advanced towing features like an available trailer brake controller and a digital rear-view mirror. Trailer Back Up Guide with Straight Path Assist is also available and features a combination of sensors and cameras to help keep your trailer in a straight line while reversing. This technology also gives the driver a 360-degree simulated top-down view of the vehicle to aid overall visibility, including tough-to-see areas around the truck and trailer. With Straight Path Assist activated, the Tacoma automatically controls steering input designed to help precise trailer positioning when reversing, allowing the driving to focus solely on throttle and braking. During regular on-road driving conditions, Tacoma's available Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) can identify when a trailer is being towed and extend the area of detection to recognize and alert the driver to potential hazards in blind spots for not only the truck, but the trailer as well.
Another newly available towing accessory is the Wireless Trailer Camera. When installed on the back of your trailer it provides a live, High-Definition view of what is behind the trailer displayed on the digital rearview mirror. When loaded up for an overlanding trip or towing a boat to the lake, the all-new manual headlight leveling switch is used for glare reduction for vehicles ahead. The switch is located within easy reach of the driver's seat.
Making the Grade
Tacoma is available in SR, SR5, TRD PreRunner, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter. Numerous configurations are offered such as two cab styles that are available with either a five- or six-foot bed: a four-door Double Cab and a two-door XtraCab with clever storage features behind the front two seats.
XtraCab, available on SR, SR5, and TRD PreRunner grades, is all about maximum utility and comes exclusively with seating for two, a functional rear cabin storage area and a six-foot bed. Lockable storage on the rear floor is useful for storing things like small packs or a toolbox, and lockable storage on the back panel can store things like shovels and fishing poles. Quick access to rear storage is aided by a long-slide driver's seat. Additionally, the passenger seat can fold flat and can be used as a workspace and includes a water bottle holder.
The i-FORCE MAX powertrain is available on TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited and standard on TRD Pro, and Trailhunter. Hybrid Tacoma grades are not only powerful but they also add functionality with a standard 2400W AC power supply to both the cabin and the bed.
The i-FORCE MAX TRD grades are offered exclusively in the Double Cab configuration with a 5-foot bed. The i-FORCE MAX TRD Off-Road adds standard 33-inch FALKEN(R) WildPeak all-terrain tires and 18-inch alloy wheels, building upon the Bilstein remote reservoir monotube shocks and the available Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism (SDM) of the gas-powered model.
Also offered in Double Cab with a 5-foot bed, the Limited grade is a more sophisticated driving experience with heated and ventilated SofTex(R)-trimmed front seats and walnut burl-wood interior accents, plus power-extending running boards, Head-Up Display, 14-inch touchscreen, JBL(R) Premium Audio with JBL(R) FLEX portable speaker, digital rearview mirror, and a power moonroof.
The Trailhunter grade has been designed from the ground up to be the ultimate overlanding rig and adventure-ready right from the dealer. Available in either 5- or 6-foot bed Double Cab configurations with bespoke Mineral colored heated and ventilated SofTex(R)-trimmed front seats. Standard Old Man Emu (OME) 2.5-inch forged monotube shocks with rear remote reservoirs, a steel rear bumper with rear recovery points, and a modular sport bar with removeable MOLLE panels round out the Trailhunter package.
Inspired by Toyota's legendary off-road racing legacy, TRD Pro takes its proven go-fast, desert running attributes to the next level. Available in Double Cab with a 5-foot bed, TRD Pro features TRD-tuned FOX(R) QS3 Internal Bypass shocks with 2.5-inch aluminum housings and rear remote reservoirs. Quick Switch 3 (QS3) technology allows for manual adjustment of compression damping on each shock to match the terrain. This controlled, confidence-inspiring ride is further enhanced by TRD Pro's segment-first IsoDynamic Performance Front Seats. Available in Black or Cockpit Red with technical-camo-pattern inserts, these heated and ventilated SofTex(R)-trimmed seats with power adjustability, use an air-over-oil shock absorber system to help reduce body movement and stabilize the driver's field of vision, improving focus and comfort while on rugged trails. TRD Pro also uses a TRD performance air intake and TRD cat-back dual tipped exhaust to allow the i-FORCE MAX engine to breathe even more efficiently and features unique exterior features such as available two-tone paint, 20-inch LED light bar integrated into a heritage-inspired "TOYOTA" grille, RIGID Industries(R) LED fog lamps, and an ARB steel rear bumper with rear recovery points.
Tacoma offers a robust color palette that includes Terra, Blue Crush Metallic, Underground, Celestial Silver Metallic, Black, Ice Cap, Bronze Oxide, as well as the TRD Pro-exclusive color for the 2025 model year - Mudbath. Plus, premium colors including Supersonic Red, and Wind Chill Pearl.
Advanced Tech
The Tacoma is filled with the latest technology with an 8-inch or available 14-inch multimedia touchscreen displaying Toyota's latest Audio Multimedia system. The system supports wireless Apple CarPlay(R) and Android Auto(TM) compatibility, and pairs well with the available Qi wireless charging pad with enhanced power output. A USB-C data and charging port is integrated on the right side of the display, and dual USB-C charging ports are included in the front row and available for the rear passengers. A 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with selectable gauges is also standard on all i-FORCE MAX Tacoma grades.
Also standard on all grades is a Smart Key System with push-button start. With an active Remote Connect trial or subscription, available Digital Key compatibility connects with select smartphones to allow vehicle entry, tailgate access, and vehicle starting (4G network dependent). The Digital Key can also be remotely shared with others to give more control over vehicle access rather than giving someone the physical key. Additionally, a Card Key is available, which is a credit card-sized smart key that allows the driver to carry their key easily and conveniently with them wherever they go.
For music lovers, the Tacoma offers ten-speaker JBL(R) premium audio, including an externally coupled subwoofer for improved output and a JBL(R) FLEX portable speaker, on Limited, Trailhunter and TRD Pro, and available on TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road. When docked on the dash, the JBL(R) FLEX charges and operates as the center channel speaker. When undocked, the JBL(R) FLEX portable Bluetooth speaker can run for up to six hours, be paired with other Toyota JBL(R) FLEX Portable Speakers, and can be submerged in up to three feet of water.
To the MAX
The i-FORCE MAX Tacoma also comes with standard Drive Mode Select, allowing the driver to change the settings of the drive force, suspensions, steering system, etc., all at the twist of a dial. Standard drive modes include Normal, Eco, and Sport, which adjust shift and pedal mapping, HVAC performance, and steering feel based on the selected drive mode. The Limited Grade adds two additional pre-programmed drive modes, Sport S+ and Comfort, as well as a Custom mode allowing the driver ultimate control over their driving experience. A Tow/Haul setting is available on most Tacoma grades and is standard on all i-FORCE MAX grades, providing enhanced throttle response and transmission functionality while towing.
Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 Standard
All 2025 Tacoma models come standard with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, Toyota's suite of active safety and convenience systems.
This suite of features includes:
Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
Lane Tracing Assist
Road Sign Assist
Automatic High Beams
Proactive Driving Assist
Proactive Driving Assist is now a part of Toyota Safety Sense. Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) uses the vehicle's camera and radar, when system operating conditions are met, to provide gentle braking and/or steering to support driving tasks such as distance control between your vehicle and a preceding vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist. PDA can also provide gentle braking into curves. Proactive Driving Assist is not a substitute for the Pre-Collision System and operates in different circumstances.
Including the addition of Proactive Driving Assist, the Toyota Safety Sense features have been enhanced for TSS 3.0:
The Toyota Safety Sense features have been enhanced for TSS 3.0:
The Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection has enhanced detection capabilities thanks to system sensors. It receives enhanced intersection support with improved detection capability in certain circumstances. In addition to pedestrian and bicyclist detection, this system now includes the capability to detect a motorcyclist.
Lane Departure Alert will now provide Steering Assist as well as enhanced lane recognition that includes detection of certain 3D objects, like guardrails, that may be used to help define the lane.
Dynamic Radar Cruise Control will have Full-Speed Range capability and adds a fourth following distance setting, from the previously available three. Enhanced vehicle detection allows for the ability to detect more than one preceding vehicle, as well as vehicles in adjacent lanes. This helps the system to provide smoother, more natural speed adjustments, especially when the driver changes lanes.
Lane Tracing Assist and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control must be enabled for it to function. The system requires detectable lane markings in order to function. Like Lane Departure Alert, lane recognition is enhanced over prior TSS generations. In addition to lane centering, this system also helps provide more space between vehicles being passed in adjacent lanes. It works by offsetting the vehicles' driving path with minor steering adjustments while keeping the vehicle within its lane.
An Emergency Driving Stop System is a function of Lane Tracing Assist. It's designed to monitor the driver's inputs, such as steering operation, to determine if they're inattentive or non-responsive, such as during a medical emergency. This feature is designed to bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver doesn't respond to alerts to take control.
Road Sign Assist is designed to detect speed limit signs, stop signs, Do Not Enter signs, yield signs, and certain warning signs, and display an icon of the sign on the Multi-Information Display (MID).
In addition to TSS 3.0, other available features include Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), which is designed to help detect and warn you of vehicles approaching or positioned in the adjacent lanes, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) for added peace of mind by helping to detect vehicles approaching from either side while backing out and alerting you with a visual and audible warning.
Limited Warranty
Toyota's 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against perforation from corrosion for 60 months with no mileage limitation. Hybrid-related components that require repairs needed to correct defects in materials or workmanship are covered for 8 years/100,000 miles, whichever comes first from original date of first use when sold as new. The hybrid battery is covered for 10 years/150,000 miles, whichever comes first, and is transferable across ownership.
The 2025 Tacoma also comes with ToyotaCare, a plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance, for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 2 years, unlimited mileage of Roadside Assistance.