The long-anticipated 2024 Toyota Tacoma has finally debuted. And it’s a significant step up from the previous generation. From an available hybrid powertrain to the Trailhunter overland trim, the new Tacoma appears better in every way.

Still, we wish there were one more variant—a plug-in electric vehicle (PHEV). That would give the 2024 Tacoma supreme versatility and could be a sales hit. Let’s explore the updated Toyota Tacoma, and what a PHEV version might look like.

2024 Toyota Tacoma: a thoroughly modern pickup

The Toyota Tacoma is already the best-selling midsize pickup in the country. So the company had a tall order when it was time for a redesign.

Starting with the exterior, the next-generation Toyota Tacoma has a chiseled appearance. Bold fender flares and squared-off lines are reminiscent of flexed muscles, and the angled-oval grille and LED running lights look strong and sleek.

Under the hood, the new Toyota boasts all-new powertrain options. A 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder with 228 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque comes on base SR trims. On higher trims—like the TRD PreRunner, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited—the 2.4 turbo makes 278 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque (automatic transmission). On manual transmission-equipped versions, those figures dip 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque.

But the big news is the iFORCE-MAX hybrid powertrain. Combining the 2.4-liter turbo four with an electric motor and NiMH battery pack brings 326 hp and a stout 426 lb-ft of torque. Optional on TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and TRD Pro trims, iFORCE-MAX brings new levels of power and efficiency.

Toyota also has plans for a Tacoma EV, but currently, very few details are available.

For improved performance on-road and off, the Tacoma uses the TNGA-F global truck platform. The frame is a high-strength boxed steel ladder design, and available multi-link coil rear suspension improves handling.

Inside, the fourth-generation Tacoma blends comfort and technology, with a Tundra-like setup and peerless fit and finish. The infotainment system—with an 8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen—has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and uses Toyota’s advanced Audio Multimedia System.

An optional Qi wireless charging pad keeps devices topped off, and a USB-C port on the touchscreen offers data and charging capabilities. And additional USB-C ports front and rear also help recharge devices.

New for 2024 is the Trailhunter trim that brings overland performance to the Tacoma range. For the ultimate in off-road engineering, Toyota turned to Australia’s ARB. That resulted in an array of upgrades like:

• Old Man Emu (OME) 2.5-inch forged monotube shocks with piggyback reservoirs
• 33-inch Goodyear Territory R/T tires
• Bed utility bar with removable MOLLE panels
• 20-inch LED light bar
• Rock rails and high-strength steel skid plates

Overall, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma ticks all the boxes for power, handling, and off-road ability. But there’s one variant that would be even sweeter: a Tacoma Prime PHEV.

2024 Toyota Tacoma: why a PHEV variant makes sense

EVs, hybrids, and gas-powered trucks all have pros and cons. Electric vehicles offer instant torque, zero-emissions driving, and home charging. But they also have limited range and can have lengthy recharge times.

Hybrids have superb fuel efficiency and unlimited range. But they still require visits to the gas station and can’t drive in all-electric mode.

Gas-powered trucks provide classic sounds, low-end grunt, and simplicity. You can drive all day and night, making only quick pit stops. But ICE-powered trucks typically have poor fuel mileage and less than ideal emissions.

But a Tacoma Prime PHEV would bring all of those positives, with none of the negatives.

Just look at the benefits of the Toyota RAV4 Prime PHEV:

• 42 miles all-electric range
• 38 mpg combined
• 0-60 in 5.7 seconds

Some weeks, short trips can make up the bulk of driving. With a PHEV’s all-electric mode, drivers enjoy zero emissions driving without wasting gas, both protecting the environment and saving money.

And because the RAV4 Prime also uses an internal combustion engine, it doesn’t have range restrictions like EVs. On long trips, there’s no need to plan around charging stations or wait while the batteries refill.

Now, imagine these attributes on a Toyota Tacoma.

That would create a midsize truck with exceptional efficiency and convenience. Drivers could go weeks (or more) without filling the tank, and reduce their carbon footprint.

Unfortunately, there aren’t any rumors about a Tacoma PHEV.