Driving a Tacoma Hybrid

(did multiple searches but couldn't find anything)

I drove a M/T for a month and loved the I-4 Turbo, but what is driving the hybrid like?
I assumed that the hybrid was for towing and such, but reading that it gets 2 mpg better indicates that the electric motor kicks driving around town.

I'm a lead foot/hotrod old guy and want to stomp on it going up on-ramps and driving hard in the mountains,

• hard on the throttle
• hard on the brakes
• Turn
• repeat (for 10-20 minutes)

Does that little battery last that long?

Any experience here?? (not interested in guesses and opinions )

 

Not a direct answer since I have a 2023 Tundra hybrid but the principle is similar.

Hybrid is intended for torque not mileage. The electric motor engages with the gas engine to provide more off the line grunt, meaning more satisfying launches. For the Tundra the motor assist seems to tap out around 55 mph or so, but by then the turbos have spooled up and boost continues. It's seamless and is a blast to drive.

I also own a 2005 Mustang GT. I'm impressed with how the Tundra "launch" feels quite similar to the Stang.

Have NOT driven the new Taco so YMMV but if it's at all like the Tundra I think you'd be happy with the hybrid.

 

It's designed for off the line, passing and on ramps.

It's a mild hybrid so its not going to give you all the power all the time. Especially on hot days or really cold days.

That said, the standard 4 cylinder turbo is pretty peppy on the highway now. I'm not sure I'd want the hybrid tacoma myself, the small mileage difference isnt substantial enough.

 

Yes "mild hybrid", few know that term. The electric motor is between the ICE and transmission.

Good information about the Tundra. I expect the Tacoma would be the same.

Agreed, the standard I-4 turbo feels quick in my 2024 is noticeably more powerful than my brother's 2023 V6

Thanks

 

Just a guess and personal opinion, but: given the info you have provided:

The little battery will outlast: -you-.

 

How about you go drive one instead of having a bunch of 3rd gen owners chime in about how their transmission is the best ever made

 

I don't think the dealer would let me go on a 3 hour test ride to the Santa Monica Mountains.

 

I went out on a 90 minute test drive one time with my son (2005 Tacoma) and the dealer called the cops to go look for us. (I left my late model car and photo-copy of my license with them BTW). We were stopped at a light and a police car pulls up along side us on the passenger side where I'm sitting. It was like that scene out of a John Wick movie:

Police Officer: "Hello sir. Test drive?" Me: "Test Drive." Police officer to son: "Are you the buyer"? Son: "Right now... unsure". Police Officer: "Enjoy your test drive."

When we got back to the dealer, son dropped the truck keys on the desk, picked up the photo-copy of my license and we left without a word. (My keys were still in my unlocked car BTW.) He (sales person) looked unhappy, but I don't think it was the no sale..... I think the Police Officer had a talk with him about wasting his time.

 

Toyota battery warranty is 10 year 150k. They’ve been in the hybrid game a very long time now.