Battle of the beasts: toyota tacoma trd pro vs. off-road head-to-head

The Toyota Tacoma is a legendary pickup truck renowned for its off-road prowess. Two of its most popular variants are the TRD Pro and the Off-Road, each offering unique features and capabilities. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the details of the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro vs. Off-Road, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.

Off-Road vs. TRD Pro: What’s the Difference?

The primary distinction between the Tacoma Off-Road and TRD Pro lies in their intended purpose. The Off-Road is designed for enthusiasts who seek enhanced off-road capabilities without sacrificing everyday usability. In contrast, the TRD Pro is a purpose-built off-road machine that pushes the Tacoma’s performance to the limit.

Off-Road vs. TRD Pro: Features and Specifications

Suspension

• Off-Road: Bilstein shocks with remote reservoirs
• TRD Pro: Fox Internal Bypass shocks with reservoirs

Tires

• Off-Road: 16-inch all-terrain tires
• TRD Pro: 16-inch Falken Wildpeak all-terrain tires

Wheels

• Off-Road: 16-inch alloy wheels
• TRD Pro: 16-inch TRD Pro alloy wheels

Front Differential

• Off-Road: Electronically locking front differential
• TRD Pro: Electronically locking front differential

Rear Differential

• Off-Road: Electronically locking rear differential
• TRD Pro: Electronically locking rear differential with Torsen limited-slip

Crawl Control

• Off-Road: Standard
• TRD Pro: Standard

Multi-Terrain Select

• Off-Road: Standard
• TRD Pro: Standard

Hill Start Assist Control

• Off-Road: Standard
• TRD Pro: Standard

Skid Plates

• Off-Road: Standard
• TRD Pro: Aluminum front skid plate

Approach and Departure Angles

• Off-Road: 32-degree approach angle, 23-degree departure angle
• TRD Pro: 36-degree approach angle, 24-degree departure angle

Exterior Design

The TRD Pro stands out with its aggressive exterior styling, featuring a unique grille, front bumper, and hood scoop. It also sports TRD Pro badging and graphics, as well as a blacked-out roof and accents. The Off-Road, on the other hand, has a more subdued appearance with a standard Tacoma grille and bumper.

Interior Features

Inside, the TRD Pro boasts a premium cabin with leather-trimmed seats, TRD Pro embroidery, and a unique instrument cluster. It also comes equipped with a 6.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Off-Road offers a more basic interior with cloth seats and a smaller 4.2-inch touchscreen.

Performance and Capability

Both the Off-Road and TRD Pro are powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. However, the TRD Pro benefits from a TRD-tuned exhaust system that enhances its sound and performance.

In terms of off-road capability, the TRD Pro takes the lead with its upgraded suspension, tires, and Torsen limited-slip rear differential. It’s designed to tackle extreme terrain with confidence, while the Off-Road is more suited for moderate off-road adventures.

Pricing and Value

The Toyota Tacoma Off-Road starts at around $36,000, while the TRD Pro starts at approximately $47,000. The TRD Pro offers a significant premium over the Off-Road, but it comes with a host of exclusive features and enhanced off-road capabilities.

Choosing the Right Tacoma for You

Ultimately, the best choice between the Toyota Tacoma Off-Road and TRD Pro depends on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a capable off-roader that won’t break the bank, the Off-Road is a solid option. However, if you’re seeking the ultimate off-road machine with no compromises, the TRD Pro is the way to go.

Basics You Wanted To Know

What’s the difference between the Toyota Tacoma SR5 and the Off-Road?

The SR5 is a more basic trim level that lacks the enhanced off-road features of the Off-Road, such as the locking differentials, upgraded suspension, and all-terrain tires.

What’s the towing capacity of the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro?

The Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro has a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds when properly equipped.

Can the Toyota Tacoma Off-Road handle rock crawling?

While the Off-Road is capable of handling moderate rock crawling, the TRD Pro is better equipped for extreme rock crawling thanks to its upgraded suspension and tires.

Is the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro worth the extra cost?

The TRD Pro offers significant upgrades in off-road performance and features compared to the Off-Road. However, the price premium is substantial, so it’s important to consider your budget and needs carefully.

What’s the fuel economy of the Toyota Tacoma Off-Road and TRD Pro?

The Toyota Tacoma Off-Road and TRD Pro have similar fuel economy ratings, with an estimated 18 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.