Don't know if manny tranny is going away, I'd be really surprised if it were, but who knows. I seriously considered one, but want my wife to be able to drive the truck, if necessary, and I don't have the stomach for trying to teach her how to drive a manual on my new truck... Subaru announced they were dropping manual trans in N. America for 2024 so, for what that is worth ...
You can't really order a Tacoma, you have to work with the dealer to see their future allocations, and pick one that matches or is close to what you want and reserve it with a deposit. I found what I wanted on the lot and was done in a couple hours. As stated, I purchased from Longo Toyota in El Monte and they can even let you purchase from home with a virtual tour of it. They had a huge inventory of Tacomas. Salesman was Andrew Luu. I was able to get $500 under MSRP. You can also go through their digital sales team.
What I've been reading is the 2024 Taco will have a smaller 4 cyl turbo engine, which is already being used in a few different Toyota SUVs, but that hasn't been confirmed. I didn't want that, as a V6 has a higher towing capacity over a smaller turbo pumper. Plus, ToyotaMatt, who used to be a Toyota tech, told me never to buy the new model year trucks and always try for the last model year as the bugs have been mostly worked out.
I didn't go with the Pro as you pay a lot more money for middling Off-Road capability. Plus, I don't like the non-functional hood scoop.
I've since been able to buy the various add-on accessories for less than half what the factory or dealer installed cost would have been. The TRD OR 4wd is really the sweet spot for function/value/cost if you can find one without the dealer padding.
Next up is some Carhartt seat saver covers and down the line after warranty is out, a mild lift and larger tires.
Good luck!
