The 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport has been turning heads since its release, and for good reason. As a content creator for cardiagnosticnearme.com and a seasoned auto enthusiast, I’ve been eager to delve into real-world owner experiences with this highly anticipated truck. This review is based on a Tacoma owner’s journey, detailing their first 10,000 miles and providing valuable insights for potential buyers.
This particular owner reserved their 2024 Tacoma Trd Sport allocation in January at a dealership in Michigan. Despite a somewhat lengthy wait, the truck was built on March 6th and arrived at the dealership in mid-April. The initial sticker price was $44,200, but after dealer-installed modifications, taxes, registration, and a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty extension, the final price came to approximately $52,000.
Enhancing the 2024 Tacoma TRD Sport: Modifications and Personalization
Before even driving it off the lot, this Tacoma TRD Sport was already slated for some key upgrades. The dealership installed a Rough Country (RC) leveling kit to enhance the truck’s stance and make room for larger tires. The owner opted for 265/70 BFGoodrich KO2 tires mounted on the factory 18-inch wheels, a popular and practical choice for both on and off-road use. Additional dealer-installed accessories included a bed mat, TRD air filter, and all-weather floor liners, adding both protection and functionality right from the start.
Driving Performance and Handling of the 2024 Tacoma TRD Sport
One of the standout features mentioned by the owner is the 6-speed manual transmission paired with 4.30 gearing. After breaking in the clutch, shifting became smooth and enjoyable. The owner even notes the truck’s surprising acceleration, capable of chirping the tires in second and third gear. This highlights the responsive nature of the turbocharged engine and well-matched gear ratios, providing ample power for everyday driving and more spirited maneuvers.
While initially finding the electronic parking brake “annoying,” the owner quickly adapted to manually releasing it before driving. Similarly, the lane assist feature, often criticized for being intrusive, was easily disabled, further tailoring the driving experience to personal preference. Overall, the driving experience is described as “smooth and routine” after these minor adjustments.
Practicality and Maintenance: First Year Ownership
The owner has already completed two full oil changes on their 2024 Tacoma TRD Sport. A notable point is the ease of maintenance, even with the addition of a Victory skid plate. The skid plate design allows access to both the oil filter and drain plug through designated access ports, negating any extra hassle during routine servicing. This thoughtful design element is a significant plus for DIY maintenance or for quick service at any shop.
The owner also considered practical modifications for everyday use. Costco seat covers were added to protect the factory fabric, demonstrating a focus on preserving the interior condition. The possibility of a rear seat delete for future modification is also mentioned, showing an inclination towards maximizing utility and cargo space, although the owner confirms the ability to carry a full-size spare tire behind the rear seat when needed.
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Spare Tire Solutions and Under-the-Hood Enhancements
Addressing the often-debated topic of spare tires, the owner proactively upgraded to a full-size spare. They sourced Tundra 18×9 wheels, which share the Tacoma’s bolt pattern, and mounted 265/70 tires to match the truck’s main set. By replacing the factory “donut” spare, the owner prioritized preparedness and capability, especially for off-road adventures or long trips.
Under the hood, a Victory engine cover was installed. This is primarily an aesthetic modification, cleaning up the engine bay’s appearance by concealing the various components. While not performance-enhancing, it reflects the owner’s attention to detail and overall vehicle presentation.
Functional Exterior Additions
Further enhancing the truck’s functionality, Rough Country retrieval points were added to the rear. These are essential for off-road recovery situations, providing secure attachment points for tow straps or shackles. A Lomax hard cover was also installed on the bed, offering protection for cargo from weather and theft, particularly useful for trips and daily security. Finally, blind spot mirrors were added to the side mirrors, improving visibility and safety, especially in urban driving environments.
Final Verdict: A Satisfied 2024 Tacoma TRD Sport Owner
After 10,000 miles, this 2024 Tacoma TRD Sport owner expresses immense satisfaction with their purchase. The truck’s “bronze oxide” color and overall appearance are consistently praised, drawing positive attention and even influencing others to consider the new Tacoma. The combination of the manual transmission and 4.30 gears is a major selling point for enthusiasts, offering a unique and engaging driving experience in the modern truck market. This real-world review underscores the appeal and capability of the 2024 Tacoma TRD Sport, making it a compelling option for those seeking a versatile and enjoyable mid-size truck.
