America's best-selling midsize truck, the Toyota Tacoma, is entering a new generation for the 2024 model year. When you see the Toyota Tacoma for sale today, you're sure to notice plenty of changes, from the new look of the front face to the fresh array of available powertrains. These changes can be seen up and down the trim lineup, not to mention the fact that two completely new trims have been created. Whether you're a long-time Tacoma fan wondering what's different or you're considering getting a Tacoma for the very first time, this trim guide will help you figure out which of the eight trim levels is the right fit for you.

SR

The SR is still the entry-level trim, the most basic and affordable option in the lineup. But while it may not have all of the great features offered on higher trims, it does have plenty to offer, including a new standard engine for the 2024 model year. While the 2023 Tacoma SR was powered by a four-cylinder engine that produced 159 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque, the 2024 model comes standard with a turbocharged I-4 that cranks out 228 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque, giving you more power to work with while accelerating on the highway, hauling cargo, or towing a trailer.

The standard infotainment system comes standard with an 8-inch central touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Advanced driver assistance features like a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Automatic High Beams, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control come standard too, so you can stay fully aware of your surroundings and drive with confidence. But while the 2024 Tacoma is high-tech, it still caters to drivers who prefer a stick shift. Aside from the Jeep Gladiator, the Tacoma is the only midsize pickup in America with an available manual transmission.

SR5

Upgrading to the Tacoma SR5 gets you a high-output version of the turbocharged I-4 engine, upping the stats to 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. On models with the double cab, you'll also get an available coil-spring rear suspension system instead of the leaf springs used on the SR. The improved ride these upgrades provide is probably the biggest advantage of opting for the SR5, but there are also plenty of smaller improvements throughout the truck, including an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a deck rail system with four adjustable tie-down cleats, and four fixed tie-down points to help you organize cargo in the bed, and the addition of the Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert to the suite of driver assistance tech.

TRD PreRunner

The PreRunner is returning to the Tacoma's lineup for the 2024 model year after a nearly decade-long hiatus. Like PreRunners past, this new trim offers a unique setup: an off-road trim that uses rear-wheel drive. For drivers who like the efficiency and feel of 2WD but want off-road capable features like all-terrain tires, a lifted suspension, and a locking rear differential, this trim should be a perfect fit. This is the lowest-level off-road trim, making it a good entry-level choice for those who are new to the hobby or are just looking for some extra support on unpaved country backroads but don't plan on tackling the toughest trails.

TRD Sport

The name says it all for the TRD Sport: the trim offers a sporty look and feel with practical features like red sport-tuned shocks that improve driving dynamics and a hood scoop to improve airflow and style accents like black exterior badging, body-color trim, and exclusive graphics on the outside plus aluminum pedals on the inside. This is also one of the few trims available with a manual transmission, giving you extra control over your ride.

At this level, the infotainment system is upgraded to include a standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster that puts important information right in your light of sight. This trim, like the TRD Off-Road and Limited trims, comes standard with the same powertrain that powers the SR5 and PreRunner, but allows you to upgrade to the new i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, the most powerful setup ever offered on the Tacoma with a combined system output of 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque.

TRD Off-Road

The rugged TRD Off-Road trim comes standard with 4WD and a laundry list of helpful equipment. Bilstein monotube shocks will keep your ride smooth when the trail gets bumpy; a composite front skid plate protects vital underbody components, an electronically locking rear differential can get you out of trouble if a tire loses traction, and the Multi-Terrain Select system makes it easy to change the vehicle's settings as you move from one type of surface to the next. You also have the option to add on even more gear, like front-axle anti-roll-bar disconnect and massive 33-inch tires.

Limited

While many of the Tacoma's trims are designed to get down and dirty, the Limited is a luxurious trim that's meant to shine in your driveway and make a statement wherever you go. In addition to the 12.3-inch digital gauge display, this trim also comes standard with a generous 14-inch central touchscreen and a Head-Up Display that projects information onto the lower dashboard. The audio system gets an upgrade, too, giving you 10 JBL speakers throughout the cabin, including an amplifier, a subwoofer, and a portable Bluetooth speaker. A power moonroof provides the interior with more natural light and gives you a better view of your surroundings. A new Adaptive Variable Suspension is available exclusively on the Limited, giving you a smooth ride across all kinds of road conditions thanks to a system that automatically adjusts damping forces as you drive.

Trailhunter

An all-new trim for 2024, the Trailhunter stands out from the other off-road trims with its focus on overlanding, an adventurous activity that pairs off-road driving with camping in remote areas. Like the TRD Pro, the Trailhunter comes standard with the more powerful hybrid powertrain, and features forged aluminum upper control arms designed to give you a full range of motion and articulation. Unlike the TRD Pro, the new trim also features exclusive standard features, like an Old Man Emu 4x4 suspension system tuned for both off-road driving and carrying heavy loads, high-strength underbody protection from multiple steel skid plates, and frame-mounted steel rock rails.

TRD Pro

At the top of the pack, the well-equipped TRD Pro is ready to tackle even the toughest of off-road trails. It comes standard with a beefy off-road-tuned suspension featuring FOX adjustable Internal Bypass coil-overs and rear remote-reservoir shocks and an aluminum front skid plate with an underbody transfer case and fuel tank protection. It also comes standard with IsoDynamic performance front seats with their own damping system, designed to keep you comfortable even on the most rough-and-tumble adventures.

Which Trim Is for You?

Learning about all of the amazing trim levels the Tacoma offers is easy, but narrowing your options down to just one can be a challenge. But don't worry--we're here to help. The first thing to do is figure out your budget, since that puts a cap on how high up the trim ladder you can go. Don't forget to factor in the value of your trade-in when figuring this out since that could make the difference between one trim and the next. From there, it's time to do the hard work of separating your needs from your wants, which will help you figure out which aspects of the Tacoma you should prioritize, whether it's off-road protection, an extra-powerful engine, or interior comfort. If you can't decide between trims on your own, you can always visit us here at Toyota of Bowling Green. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is here to answer all of your questions, show you the models we have in stock here at the dealership, and offer you advice when you're looking for it so you can drive home in the truck of your dreams.