Cargazing
By Derek Price

The Toyota Tacoma has long been the benchmark in midsize trucks, but even legends need updating.

Toyota’s popular pickup arrives for a new generation completely redesigned with an emphasis on technology and capability, though some might find its increased dimensions push the boundaries of “midsize.”

Based on the same TNGA-F platform as the full-size Tundra, the new Tacoma feels decidedly more substantial than its predecessor. The TRD Off-Road model I tested, priced at $54,829 with options, showcased this beefier character with its elevated stance and muscular bodywork.

While the growth spurt might disappoint fans of truly compact pickups, it translates to a more planted, confident presence both on road and off.

Power comes from a new turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. While the engine provides adequate thrust for most situations, it can sound coarse under hard acceleration.

The redesigned 2024 Tacoma TRD Off-Road projects a more muscular presence with its elevated stance and bold front-end styling.

The eight-speed automatic transmission handles shifting duties smoothly, though fuel economy ratings of 19 mpg city and 23 highway lag behind some competitors.

Where the Tacoma truly shines is in its off-road capabilities, as showcased in my tester’s TRD Off-Road trim.

The optional stabilizer bar disconnect mechanism enhances wheel articulation on tough trails, while the multi-terrain select system adjusts vehicle parameters for different surfaces. The truck’s increased size actually helps here, providing better stability over rough terrain.

Inside, Toyota has dramatically modernized the cabin with an available 14-inch touchscreen that’s both responsive and intuitive.

Material quality feels appropriate for the price point, though the back seat remains somewhat cramped compared to rivals like the Chevrolet Colorado.

A new 14-inch touchscreen dominates the modernized cabin, though rear seat space remains tight for the segment.

The Premium package adds welcome luxuries including heated and ventilated leather seats and a JBL audio system.

Toyota’s reputation for reliability and strong resale value remains a compelling selling point, even as the Tacoma pushes into premium territory with fully-loaded models topping out near $65,000.

The broad range of available configurations — from basic work truck to off-road warrior — means there’s likely a Tacoma for every need and budget.

Overall, Toyota has successfully modernized its midsize truck while maintaining the capability and durability that made the nameplate famous. The new Tacoma delivers a compelling blend of technology, refinement and off-road prowess.

At A Glance

WHAT WAS TESTED?

2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road ($42,900). Options: Premium package ($8,800), stabilizer disconnect mechanism ($1,230), bed mat $200), ball mount ($70), mini tie down ($45), tailgate insert ($89). Price as tested (including $1,495 destination charge): $54,829

BY THE NUMBERS

Wheelbase: 131.9 in.
Length: 213 in.
Width: 77.9 in.
Height: 74.6 in.
Engine: 2.4-liter turbo four cylinder (278 hp, 317 lbs. ft.)
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
MPG: 19 city, 23 highway

RATINGS

Style: 9
Performance: 9
Price: 6
Handling: 7
Ride: 7
Comfort: 7
Quality: 9
Overall: 8

WHY BUY IT?

Class-leading off-road capability paired with Toyota’s reputation for reliability makes the Tacoma a solid choice for adventure-minded buyers who want a truck they can depend on.

Cargazing
By Derek Price

Sometimes the best way forward is to look back.

Toyota’s reimagined 2025 Land Cruiser arrives with a mission that seems almost contradictory in today’s market: it’s smaller, less luxurious and significantly less expensive than its predecessor. Yet in many ways, this back-to-basics approach makes the new Land Cruiser more appealing than ever.

Gone is the leather-lined luxo-cruiser that commanded nearly $90,000. In its place stands a more focused off-roader that starts at $56,450 — a price point that puts it squarely against the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler rather than the Range Rover.

The transformation is most evident in the styling, where Toyota’s designers have crafted what might be their best-looking SUV since the FJ Cruiser, with just the right mix of heritage cues and modern details.

Power comes from Toyota’s i-FORCE MAX hybrid system, pairing a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor to produce 326 horsepower and a stout 465 pound-feet of torque.

Retro-inspired design elements on the latest Toyota Land Cruiser pay homage to its ancestors while maintaining a modern presence.

While the powertrain provides smooth, confident acceleration, real-world highway fuel economy falls short of its EPA estimates. The eight-speed automatic transmission handles shifting duties competently if not remarkably.

The Land Cruiser’s road manners are surprisingly civilized for a vehicle with serious off-road credentials. The ride quality is noticeably more composed than its direct competitors from Ford and Jeep, though you’ll still find plenty of body roll in corners.

The trade-off comes in the form of impressive trail capability, aided by standard features like a two-speed transfer case and locking center and rear differentials.

Inside, the lower grades make it clear where some costs were cut. Hard plastics and basic fabric seats replace the previous generation’s premium materials. Yet the simplicity feels appropriate for a vehicle meant to get muddy, and the controls are logically arranged for easy use even with gloved hands.

The Land Cruiser’s simplified cabin prioritizes functionality over luxury, with durable materials and straightforward controls suited for off-road adventures.

The lack of a third row may disappoint some buyers, but the two-row layout provides decent passenger space. Cargo practicality is somewhat limited by a high load floor.

Toyota’s suite of advanced driver aids comes standard, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The 8-inch touchscreen includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, though you’ll need to step up to higher trims for the larger 12.3-inch display.

For traditional off-road enthusiasts, the new Land Cruiser’s more focused approach will feel like a return to form.

While it may have lost some of its luxury pretenses, it gained something more valuable: authenticity. This is a Land Cruiser that feels truer to its heritage, ready to forge new trails rather than just cruise Rodeo Drive.

At A Glance

WHAT WAS TESTED?

2025 Toyota Land Cruiser FE ($74,950). Options: Federal emissions ($350), two-tone roof ($130). Price as tested (including $1,395 destination charge): $76,825

BY THE NUMBERS

Wheelbase: 112.2 in.
Length: 196.4 in.
Width: 77.9 in.
Height: 76.1 in.
Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged hybrid four cylinder (326 hp, 465 lbs. ft.)
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
MPG: 22 city, 25 highway

RATINGS

Style: 9
Performance: 8
Price: 9
Handling: 5
Ride: 6
Comfort: 6
Quality: 8
Overall: 8

WHY BUY IT?

The latest Land Cruiser is a legitimate off-roader with hybrid efficiency and heritage styling at a price that makes it much more appealing.