The 2025 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid isn’t just another mid-size truck—it marks a major milestone for both Toyota and the broader pickup segment. As the first mid-size hybrid pickup in the U.S. market, the Tacoma Hybrid challenges the long-standing trade-off between capability and fuel efficiency. Following its highly anticipated debut in May 2023, the hybrid version finally hits dealerships, packing 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque from its i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain.
Hybrid Powertrain: A New Standard in Efficiency and Power
Under the hood, the Tacoma Hybrid comes equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, replacing the old 3.5-liter V6. This hybridized engine generates an impressive 326 horsepower (243 kW) and 465 lb-ft (629 Nm) of torque, delivered to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is another key benefit, with the hybrid powertrain offering up to 24 mpg combined, giving drivers a balance of power and efficiency that’s rare in the mid-size truck market.
For comparison, the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado and 2024 Ford Ranger may offer similar capability but fall short in terms of fuel economy and power, making the Tacoma Hybrid a standout option.
First Drive Impressions: On and Off the Road
We had the opportunity to test several 2025 Tacoma trims during a drive event in San Diego, including the on-road-focused Limited trim, the off-road-ready Trailhunter, and the high-speed TRD Pro. Each offered a distinct driving experience, and we were impressed by the truck’s adaptability across various terrains.
On-Road Performance
On the road, the Tacoma Limited trim equipped with the hybrid engine demonstrated its power advantage over the non-hybrid model. While the non-hybrid offers 278 horsepower from the same 2.4-liter engine, the hybrid’s 326 hp feels stronger when accelerating at higher speeds. However, throttle response from a stop was similar between the two, with the non-hybrid feeling slightly more responsive at lower speeds. The hybrid system, while powerful, had a slight delay in throttle and braking inputs.
Despite the minor throttle delay, the Tacoma Hybrid handles surprisingly well for a truck. The suspension soaks up bumps and rough road conditions without feeling too soft or jittery. Parking and navigating narrow streets were also easier than expected, thanks to the truck’s nimble steering and compact dimensions.
Off-Road Capabilities
Off the road, the Trailhunter trim stands out with its Old Man Emu suspension, steel rock rails, and 3D multi-terrain monitoring system. Tackling steep inclines, rocky trails, and water crossings, the Trailhunter performed admirably, offering a controlled and confident ride in tough conditions. The 3D multi-terrain camera system was a game-changer, allowing us to see the trail ahead as if looking through the truck itself—a feature that reduces the need for a spotter on technical trails.
For more extreme off-road adventures, the TRD Pro trim delivers. Its IsoDynamic seats and CRAWL control system helped smooth out the roughest terrain, making it ideal for high-speed off-roading. Jumping the truck at over 40 mph on a desert-style course felt both thrilling and surprisingly comfortable.
Interior Design: Functional and Rugged
The interior of the Tacoma Hybrid mirrors the design of the non-hybrid model, with rugged, squared-off elements dominating the dash, door panels, and center console. While some materials feel a bit plasticky, the overall design is cohesive and built to last. Toyota’s decision to forgo soft-touch materials in favor of more durable components will likely pay off in the long run.
The 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster is standard across all hybrid models, while the infotainment screen varies by trim—either an 8-inch display or a larger 14-inch system with enhanced features like a removable JBL Bluetooth speaker. The inclusion of physical buttons and knobs for climate and media controls is a user-friendly touch, allowing for easy adjustments without fumbling through menus.
Space and Practicality
One downside of the Tacoma Hybrid is the limited rear seat space. Taller passengers may find it cramped, especially with the thicker IsoDynamic seats. For those over 6 feet tall, fitting comfortably in the back seat can be a challenge. However, Toyota has integrated useful storage solutions throughout the cabin, such as MOLLE panels on the door cards, a functional shelf ahead of the passenger seat, and a hidden storage compartment in the dashboard.
The truck bed measures 60.3 inches by 53 inches for the short bed and 73.5 inches by 53 inches for the long bed. With a payload capacity of up to 1,610 pounds, the Tacoma Hybrid beats rivals like the Colorado and Nissan Frontier in terms of carrying capacity. However, note that the longer bed is only available on the Trailhunter trim, which starts at $63,400.
Fuel Economy: Slightly Better, But Not Groundbreaking
In our mixed driving test, the Tacoma Hybrid achieved an average of 19.7 mpg, close to the EPA estimate of 24 mpg. While that’s a modest improvement over the non-hybrid version (which gets up to 23 mpg), it’s still not significantly better than some diesel-powered alternatives like the GMC Sierra.
However, considering the power boost and hybrid benefits like reduced emissions and better fuel efficiency in urban driving, the Tacoma Hybrid is still a strong contender for those looking to balance capability with eco-conscious driving.
Pricing and Final Thoughts
Starting at $46,300, the Tacoma Hybrid commands a premium over the non-hybrid models. While it offers more power and slightly better fuel economy, the non-hybrid trims, which start at $52,100 for the Limited trim, may provide better value for everyday drivers. Additionally, the hybrid is only available with an automatic transmission, whereas the non-hybrid offers a manual option—a feature that could sway enthusiasts away from the hybrid model.
The 2025 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid is a game-changer in the mid-size truck segment, offering more power than competitors like the Ford Ranger and Chevrolet Colorado, while introducing hybrid efficiency into the mix. However, picking the right Tacoma trim is essential. Whether you prioritize on-road comfort, off-road capability, or hybrid efficiency, Toyota has crafted a Tacoma for every driver. Make sure to choose the one that best fits your lifestyle, and it will reward you with years of reliable performance.
