A Closer Look at the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 Trim

It's not often that a Toyota dealer near Austin drops what they're doing to highlight a specific trim, but we have to hand it to the all-new Toyota Tacoma. While all of the trims are well-designed and deliver exactly what drivers need for their level of pickup truck usage, the SR5 trim deserves its own mention.

The SR5 is not like the rest of the Tacomas. Toyota has promised that the 2024 model year Tacoma has been "completely redesigned and reimagined." This includes some big changes to the overall construction of the Tacoma, but it also means a refreshed vision of each trim level. What do we love most about the SR5? It's a fantastic representation of the versatility within the Tacoma lineup of midsize pickup trucks. It's tough, reliable, and stocked with all the necessities for today's driver while still being considerate to many different budgets. Take a look at some of the things that make the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5 worthy of its own spotlight.

Introducing the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5

For the 2024 model year, the Toyota Tacoma is offered in both gasoline-only and hybrid versions. The gasoline-powered Tacoma is offered on SR, SR5, TRD PreRunner, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and Limited trims. The Tacoma lineup has been fully redesigned, allowing each grade the opportunity to shine. According to Dave Christ, vice president and general manager of Toyota group, "Our engineers outdid themselves with this next-generation Tacoma. This truck offers customers more of everything, including technology, style, and capability, all with an attractive starting MSRP. This is a segment Toyota has carried for years, and we feel this next iteration of Tacoma only raises the bar."

To begin with, the Tacoma is built on the same truck platform as the Tundra, Sequoia, and Land Cruiser. This gives the Tacoma a high-strength boxed steel ladder frame, which provides plenty of brawn. Furthermore, all gasoline-powered 2024 Tacoma models are equipped with a turbocharged i-FORCE 2.4L engine. Good for 278 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque, this engine has the kind of pep to make every drive a little more fun. Those who choose rear-wheel drive models can appreciate a combined fuel economy of 23 MPG, while all-wheel drive models have a combined fuel economy of 21 MPG.

What Makes the SR5 Different?

Since its debut in 1995, the Toyota Tacoma has earned a reputation as an off-roading specialist; however, this is not true of all models. The SR, SR5, and Limited trims are perfectly happy on the pavement, though they certainly have the chops for weekend Hill Country adventures. The SR5 trim is one of Tacoma's most versatile trims. Both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models are offered in Toyota's 2-door extended cab Xtra Cab and Double Cab configurations. Xtra Cab models include a 6-foot bed, while Double Cab versions can sport a 5 or 6-foot bed.

Those who select all-wheel drive models can enjoy Toyota's 4WDemand part-time four-wheel drive with a 2-speed high/low transfer case, along with Active Traction Control. However, the SR5's independent double-wishbone front suspension and the rear coil spring suspension on Double Cab models aren't tuned for crawling creek beds, and skid plates are not standard on this model.

The Tacoma SR5 does include standard peace of mind in the form of Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, a suite of driver assistance technology that includes a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Proactive Driving Assist, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Road Sign Assist, Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and automatic high beams. Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert are also standard, and an automatically dimming day/night rearview mirror keeps the glare down. Other SR5 standards just make sense, like a deck rail system with four adjustable tie-down cleats and four fixed tie-down points.

A Spacious Cabin With Storage Options and Plenty of Tech

We happen to live in one of the most beautiful places in the world, from Lake Travis to Lady Bird Lake (arguably the most scenic reservoir in the entire country). While spending time in your car may seem counterintuitive in Austin, it's also one of the most convenient ways to explore our city. Thankfully, the Tacoma SR5 is well-equipped to keep drivers happy and comfortable, no matter how long the drive is.

There are a few differences between the Xtra Cab and Double Cab models, mainly in the number of seats. Both have fabric-trimmed manually adjustable front driver and passenger seats with extra lumbar support for the driver. However, the Xtra Cab has no rear seat, while the Double Cab does.

The front passenger seat of the Xtra Cab folds flat to expand storage space within the cabin. Additionally, the Xtra Cab models include a lockable rear storage panel with a built-in pegboard along with a lockable deep storage compartment for your most valuable tools, equipment, and possessions. Who doesn't want a truck that will hold your wallet while you play a round at Avery Ranch?

The Double Cab has a 60/40 split folding rear seat. Extra storage spaces are built under and behind the rear seat, perfect for stashing gear that's gotten wet or muddy along the journey. All Tacoma SR5 models include a standard 8-inch Audio Multimedia Display, which comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and SiriusXM compatibility. Toyota will throw in the first three months of SiriusXM for free as a courtesy.

The beauty of the SR5's cabin is in its simplicity. While the SR5 is not the most technological, sporty, or off-road capable vehicle in the Tacoma lineup, it is comfortable, well-organized, and easy to use, with features that are displayed right where you need them. Best of all, storage pockets and cupholders are placed exactly where front and rear seat passengers need them the most.

Available Packages Allow You to Further Customize Your SR5

Toyota provides drivers of all grades with the opportunity to get exactly what they want with the addition of optional packages. The Tacoma SR5 is eligible for a variety of options that only improve on its generous array of features. From adding heated front seats and a leather-trimmed heated steering wheel to adding a JBL Premium Audio system with a JBL FLEX portable speaker, drivers have plenty of choices. An easy-lower tailgate, Integrated Trailer Brake Controller, LED bed lights, and Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking are just a few of the features offered through these upgrade packages. The Tacoma SR5 is also offered in a variety of exterior and interior colors, further ensuring that drivers like you look sharp both out in the hills and while driving downtown.

An Affordable Midsize Truck With a Lot to Offer Austin Drivers

We love the SR5 because of everything it has to offer, along with a price point that has to be seen to be believed. For drivers who want to look cool, feel confident behind the wheel, and own a vehicle that is equal parts versatile and reliable, look no further than the 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5. With its newly redesigned, tougher body, exceptional engine, and standard features that make plenty of drivers perfectly happy, we're sure you'll feel the same when you get behind the wheel. Come into San Marcos Toyota and see for yourself!