i-FORCE vs. i-FORCE MAX – Which Powertrain Did You Choose?

[TRD JON]

Now that the 4th Gen Tacoma is here, a lot of us are deciding between the i-FORCE turbo 4-cylinder and the i-FORCE MAX hybrid setup. Both use the same 2.4L engine, but the MAX adds an electric motor for a combined 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque.

If you’ve driven both, how do they compare in real-world driving? Is the hybrid worth the extra cost and weight? Any noticeable difference in throttle response, towing, or MPG?

I’m leaning toward the i-FORCE MAX for the torque alone — that number beats most full-size trucks. But I also want to know how it feels off-road and if the added complexity is worth it for long-term reliability. The normal i-FORCE still packs a solid punch, but for me personally the hybrid is were it’s at!

Let’s hear from those who’ve driven both, especially in TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims.

 

[rustytaco]

The hybrid powertrain was a non-negotiable for me. The power numbers aren't bad and they're a little faster than the last gen, but power was always one of the main complaints behind the 3G. The added weight I think is meaningless for most people, and the added horsepower and torque is worth every penny. I drove a non-hybrid the other day and there is a pretty big difference, even with all my added weight so far. Highly recommend that anyone considering one go for a hybrid.

 

[Jim_TRD_Offroad]

The hybrid powertrain was a non-negotiable for me. The power numbers aren't bad and they're a little faster than the last gen, but power was always one of the main complaints behind the 3G. The added weight I think is meaningless for most people, and the added horsepower and torque is worth every penny. I drove a non-hybrid the other day and there is a pretty big difference, even with all my added weight so far. Highly recommend that anyone considering one go for a hybrid.

Nice input. Late last year was about to go with the hybrid but couldn’t justify the higher price.

With the iforce engine, it’s more than enough for my needs. I do like the free room under the back seats.

Maybe by 2028 I’ll upgrade to the Pro.

 

[TacomaForce]

If you can swing it, hybrid all day! Once you drive one, you don't want to go back.

 

[Voodoo452]

Hybrid is great option, as you can put around on electric power if easy on the throttle, good for around neighborhood.

Also, found out my TRD Pro is electronically limited to 110mph, this past weekend.

 

[JAP]

Now that the 4th Gen Tacoma is here, a lot of us are deciding between the i-FORCE turbo 4-cylinder and the i-FORCE MAX hybrid setup. Both use the same 2.4L engine, but the MAX adds an electric motor for a combined 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque.

If you’ve driven both, how do they compare in real-world driving? Is the hybrid worth the extra cost and weight? Any noticeable difference in throttle response, towing, or MPG?

I’m leaning toward the i-FORCE MAX for the torque alone — that number beats most full-size trucks. But I also want to know how it feels off-road and if the added complexity is worth it for long-term reliability. The normal i-FORCE still packs a solid punch, but for me personally the hybrid is were it’s at!

Let’s hear from those who’ve driven both, especially in TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro trims.

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I had a TRD Sport 4x4 (non hybrid) and now a TRD Pro and the iForce setup is fantastic. Where I think it really shines is transitioning from street to freeway and back. The torque is there when you need it. From a dead stop, the non hybrid seemed a bit peppier, probably due to the battery pack weighing about 400lbs on the hybrid. From a co.fort perspective, the 4 banger is not refined at all IMO, I've driven other forced induced engines and 4s and the 4th gen Taco motor is raspy and dry sounding. An advantage the TRD Pro has is the improved sound deadening and laminated front door windows and windshield which does a good job at keeping the noise out. One weird think I've had to get used to and eventually started liking is the truck moving only on the electric motor at low speed and not under major load. I feel like a ninja. The transmission is basically the same and is well mated to either power train. The Pro does have some artificial engine sound which From what I can tell mostly comes from the subwoofer and blends well with throttle inputs. If you can swing it, I think the iForce Max engine is worth it, but understanding that the drive train becomes more complex. If you want straight forward w simplicity, do not go hybrid.

 

[VprGts]

I’ve owned 2nd and 3rd gen’s for the better part of 15-20 years so when Toyota announced the 4th gen’s I was pretty excited to see what it was all about. So (personally speaking) the I force is a huge improvement over the previous generations but the i force max is what actually sold me on getting into another Tacoma. Regardless of the added weight the hybrid torque just feels awesome. Passing people on the highway is effortless now.

I was able to score an off road hybrid premium package for $3k below sticker. I had to travel to Detroit to pick it up but zero regrets. The hybrid warranty 10 year/150k is nice plus if the pros/trailhunters keep trading for crazy $ then that will only help the hybrid when it comes to resale.