10 Used Pickup Truck Alternatives For 2024 Toyota Tacoma Shoppers

Jul 15, 2023

Although we love the all-new 2024 Toyota Tacoma, there are plenty of used pickup trucks that can keep up with it.

After selling for eight model years, the third-generation Tacoma is finally making way for an all-new model for 2024. Sharing a platform with the larger Tundra and Sequoia, the 2024 Tacoma comes in eight trim levels. Under the hood, it packs a new turbocharged 2.4-liter 4-banger and either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission. In the base trim, it delivers 228 hp and 243 lb-ft through the automatic gearbox. Other trim levels get 270 hp or 278 hp. A new hybrid system (i-Force Max powertrain) delivers 326 hp and 465 lb-ft.

The 2024 Tacoma has a towing capacity of 6,500 lbs and a payload capacity of 1,709 lbs. Like other Tacomas before it, it is also a stellar off-roader – especially in TRD guise. Some of the available off-road goodies include a multi-link rear suspension and Multi-Terrain Select with Crawl Control. The TRD Pro also gets the innovative IsoDynamic Performance Seat that enhances comfort during bumpy off-road rides. Higher trim levels offer infotainment features like a 14-inch touchscreen display and a 10-speaker JBL audio system with a removable center speaker. Rocking the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, there is no shortage of advanced driving aids in the new truck. While it is a great vehicle, there are many used pickup trucks that will give it a run for its money.

Using data from J.D. Power and Edmunds.com, we've compiled a list of pickup trucks that can rival the 2024 Toyota Tacoma

All-new after a long absence in America, the 2019 Ford Ranger returned to the US with one punchy turbocharged power option. The 2.3-liter 4-cylinder unit delivers an output of 270 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque through a 10-speed shiftable automatic transmission. Both the standard rear-wheel drive and available 4-wheel drive deliver excellent fuel economy ratings.

The 2019 Ranger can pull up to 7,500 pounds and haul a payload of 1,770 pounds. In comparison, the Ranger can pull a thousand more pounds and haul more cargo than the 2024 Tacoma. Depending on the body style, it seats up to five passengers in a quiet cabin. It offers infotainment features like an available 8-inch touchscreen and a 10-speaker sound system. Other features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a WiFi hotspot.

Engine

2.3-liter I4

Power

270 hp

Torque

310 lb-ft

Drivetrain

RWD, 4WD

Towing Capacity

7,500 pounds

Payload Capacity

1,770 pounds

The 2018 Chevrolet Colorado is available in five trim levels and offers a range of three engine options. Although the base 2.5-liter 4-banger makes a pathetic 200 hp, the available 3.6-liter V6 unit cranks out a more-attractive 308 hp. Also available is a Duramax 2.8-liter turbodiesel unit that puts out 181 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. The oil burner has outstanding fuel economy ratings and gives the 2018 Colorado a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds.

Thanks to a lineup of off-road goodies, the Z71 and ZR2 trims can navigate tough terrains with ease. The 2018 Colorado seats up to five passengers and offers features like leather upholstery and power-adjustable front seats. While it doesn’t have the payload capacity of the 2024 Tacoma, we would take a used 2018 Colorado for its superior towing capacity.

Engine

2.4-liter I4; 3.6-liter V6; Duramax 2.8-liter turbodiesel I4

Power

200 hp, 308 hp, 181 hp

Torque

191 lb-ft; 275 lb-ft; 369 lb-ft

Drivetrain

RWD, 4WD

Towing Capacity

7,700 pounds

Payload Capacity

1,574 pounds

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Following a redesign for 2017, the Ridgeline entered 2018 in six trim levels. Every 2018 Honda Ridgeline packs a 3.5-liter V6 engine under the hood. Through a 6-speed automatic transmission, it sends down 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. The 2018 Ridgeline has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds which is on the low side. But it excels in areas such as cabin quality, passenger space, and ride quality. It features a unique dual-action tailgate that can swing open or fold down and a lockable in-bed trunk.

Depending on the trim level, it offers leather upholstery, heated front seats, and tri-zone automatic climate control. Available infotainment features include an 8-speaker premium stereo, navigation, and an in-bed audio system. The 2018 Ridgeline may lack the impressive towing capacity of the 2024 Tacoma, but it stands out with car-like ride quality and innovative storage options.

Engine

3.5-liter V6

Power

280 hp

Torque

262 lb-ft

Drivetrain

FWD, AWD

Towing Capacity

5,000 pounds

Payload Capacity

1,580 pounds

The 2019 Nissan Frontier boasts a rugged design that appeals to drivers who need a versatile vehicle that can handle both work and adventure. It comes in two body styles and can seat up to five passengers. While the interior has an outdated styling, it features materials that will last for a long time.

Two engine options drive the 2019 Frontier – a 152-hp 2.5-liter 4-banger and a 4.0-liter V6 that makes 261 hp and 281 lb-ft. The 2019 Frontier can tow up to 6,720 pounds, which is just a little more than what the 2024 Tacoma can tow, but every pound counts. It also packs an impressive range of off-road hardware in the 4WD PRO-4X compared to its sibling trims. They include Bilstein shocks, skid plates, a locking rear differential, and all-terrain tires. So, like the Tacoma, it can also hit the trails with ease.

Engine

2.5-liter I4; 4.0-liter V6

Power

152 hp; 261 hp

Torque

171 lb-ft; 281 lb-ft

Drivetrain

RWD, 4WD

Towing Capacity

6,720 pounds

Payload Capacity

1,460 pounds

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Toyota offered the 2019 Tundra in six trim levels, two body styles, and three-bed lengths. It has a spacious interior that can seat up to six passengers, with available features such as leather upholstery and heated/ventilated front seats. Other available features include a navigation system, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a 12-speaker JBL sound system.

The 2019 Tundra also comes with many advanced safety features, such as forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. Under the hood, it packs a choice of two V8 engines. Rated at 310 hp and 381 hp, the larger of the pair is more powerful than the 2024 Tacoma’s most powerful engine. Towing capacity is another reason we'll pick the 2019 Tundra over the new Tacoma. With the right equipment, this Tundra can tow up to 10,200 pounds.

Engine

4.6-liter V8; 5.7-liter V8

Power

310 hp, 381 hp

Torque

327 lb-ft; 401 lb-ft

Drivetrain

RWD, 4WD

Towing Capacity

10,200 pounds

Payload Capacity

1,730 pounds

The 2017 Ram 1500 may not boast the sales figures of the legendary Ford F-150, but it has many attractive strengths. Thanks to a coil-spring rear suspension, it displays car-like driving dynamics that will make you forget you are driving a full-size rig. Besides the smooth ride quality, it also offers a quieter and more attractive cabin than the 2024 Tacoma.

Under the hood, owners can fit any of the three engine options. The base 3.6-liter V6 unit makes 305 hp, while the available 5.7-liter V8 makes 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque. Also available is a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel that returns excellent fuel economy. With these powerful powertrain options at its disposal, the 2017 Ram 1500 boasts higher towing and payload capacities than the 2024 Tacoma.

Engine

3.6-liter V6; 5.7-liter V8; 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel

Power

305 hp; 395 hp; 240 hp

Torque

269 lb-ft; 410 lb-ft; 420 lb-ft

Drivetrain

RWD, 4WD

Towing Capacity

10,640 pounds

Payload Capacity

1,880 pounds

This versatile full-size rig comes with an impressive lineup of engines that runs the gamut from a 4-cylinder unit to two V8 mills. Alongside the five engines, it offers three different transmissions and rear- or all-wheel drive. With the proper engine and kit, the 2021 Sierra 1500 can pull up to 11,800 pounds and haul a payload capacity of 2,250 pounds. This is far beyond what the 2024 Tacoma can manage.

For excellent off-road capability, the AT4 trim comes with cool features such as hardware like skid plates, off-road shocks, and a 2-speed transfer case, among others. In the AT4 guise, the 2021 Sierra 1500 can also venture off-road with ease. Inside a quiet and spacious cabin, the 2021 Sierra 1500 also boasts a healthy list of equipment including wireless device charging and two 120-volt household-style power outlets.

Engine

2.3-liter I4

Power

270 hp

Torque

310 lb-ft

Drivetrain

RWD, 4WD

Towing Capacity

7,500 pounds

Payload Capacity

1,770 pounds

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Boasting a lightweight all-aluminum body, the 2020 Ford F-150 offers three body styles, three bed lengths, and seven trim levels. Whether you need a reliable daily driver or a workhorse, there are many reasons to buy the 2020 Ford F-150. The 2020 F-150 has more customization potential than the 2024 Tacoma.

Being a powerful full-size rig, it also tows and hauls more than the Tacoma. With 450 horses under the hood, the trail-tuned F-150 Raptor can hold its own when the pavement ends. Inside, the 2020 F-150 seats up to six people and offers features like leather upholstery, heated seats, and ventilated/massaging front seats. Besides, the 2020 F-150’s J.D. Power reliability rating of 86 is nothing to scoff at.

Engine

3.3L V6; 5.0L V8; 2.7L twin-turbo V6; 3.0L V6 turbodiesel; 3.5L twin-turbo V6; 3.5L twin-turbo V6

Power

290 hp; 395 hp; 325 hp; 250 hp; 375 hp; 450 hp

Torque

265 lb-ft; 400 lb-ft; 400 lb-ft; 440 lb-ft; 470 lb-ft; 510 lb-ft

Drivetrain

RWD, 4WD

Towing Capacity

13,200 pounds

Payload Capacity

3,270 pounds

Unlike rivals, the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid doesn't give owners many configuration options. It comes in just one body style, two trim levels, and one powertrain option. The hybrid powertrain consists of a 6.0-liter V8 engine and two 60-kW electric motors. Combined, they send 379 hp to the wheels. Towing and hauling capacities stand at 6,100 and 1,553 pounds.

While these figures are less than the 2024 Tacoma’s ratings, the 2011 Silverado Hybrid has a more attractive starting price. Depending on the driving conditions and the battery charge level, the truck can run either on gasoline, electricity, or both. The system also features regenerative braking. Inside the spacious cabin, the Chevy seats more passengers than the 2024 Tacoma. Some interior features include dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, and navigation.

Engine

6.0-liter hybrid V8

Power

332 hp

Torque

367 lb-ft

Drivetrain

RWD, 4WD

Towing Capacity

6,100 pounds

Payload Capacity

1,553 pounds

The 2019 Tacoma has a rugged exterior design that reflects its high predicted reliability rating. Under the hood, it features either a 2.7-liter 4-banger rated at 159 hp or a 278-hp 3.5-liter V6 unit. Rear-wheel drive is standard, while 4-wheel drive is available. Though it doesn’t haul as much payload as the 2024 Tacoma, the 2019 model tows higher.

Thanks to a lineup of off-road equipment and tech features, it can give the newer model a run for its money on the trail. While the cabin is not the nicest in the segment, it features durable materials and a straightforward infotainment system. The 2019 Tacoma also offers a long list of advanced safety/driver-assist tech. In addition to its impressive specs, the 2019 Toyota Tacoma is also affordable.

Engine

2.7-liter I4; 3.5-liter V6

Power

159 hp; 278 hp

Torque

180 lb-ft; 265 lb-ft

Drivetrain

RWD, 4WD

Towing Capacity

6,800 pounds

Payload Capacity

1,620 pounds

Jay Moren is a car enthusiast who loves everything with an engine. When he's not writing about cars, he plays the saxophone and keyboard. He also plays as a goalkeeper for a non-league side in his native Nigeria