As an experienced off-road enthusiast with a deep love for Toyota Tacomas, I’ve had the privilege of testing various models over the years. Today, I want to dive into a comparison between two beloved variants of America’s best-selling midsize pickup truck: the Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport and the TRD Off Road.
Both are renowned for their sturdy build and the quality assurance that comes with the Toyota Tacoma name. But when it comes to off-roading, which one truly delivers the ultimate experience?
Here’s the deal: while these two models share similarities, they each have their own unique characteristics. The TRD Sport caters to those who crave style and comfort, offering a smooth ride on city streets. On the other hand, the TRD Off Road is tailored for the adrenaline junkies, ready to conquer rough terrains with its locking differentials and crawl control.
If aesthetics are your priority, the Sport model may catch your eye with its hood scoop, front air dam, and low-profile tires. Conversely, the Off Road boasts a more rugged appearance, featuring a flat black front bumper and wheel lip moldings.
The TRD Sport has a slightly higher towing capacity, precisely 6800 lbs, while the TRD Off Road isn’t far behind at an impressive 6700 lbs. Additionally, the Off Road model excels in terms of approach and breakover angles, enhancing the thrill of your off-road adventures³.
Now, the price difference between the two models is not significant. The TRD Sport starts at $34,335, while the TRD Off Road is priced slightly higher at $35,635³.
So, you might be wondering, which one should you choose? That’s what we’re here to help you figure out.
In this article, we’ll evaluate the pros and cons of each model for off-roading, guide you in making the right choice, and share real-world experiences from Tacoma owners who have conquered off-road trails with their preferred models.
TRD Sport: Embracing Adventure in Everyday Life
Let’s shift our focus to the TRD Sport, a Tacoma that effortlessly combines style and adaptability, whether you’re cruising on the highway or embarking on an impromptu off-road escapade.
Under the hood, you’ll find a 3.5-liter V6 engine ready to unleash 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. With your choice of a six-speed automatic or manual transmission, you’re in control. The Sport offers rear-wheel drive or a part-time four-wheel drive, complete with an electronic transfer case.
To ensure a comfortable ride, the TRD Sport features sport-tuned suspension with coil springs and stabilizer bars. This sturdy setup allows you to conquer various terrains while maintaining a smooth ride.
With 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in all-season tires, you’ll not only enjoy aesthetics but also exceptional functionality.
When it comes to design, the TRD Sport showcases a distinctive hood scoop, body-colored fender flares and rear bumper, and chrome accents on the grille and rear bumper. And let’s not forget the LED headlights and fog lights that add a touch of elegance.
The interior boasts a leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob, a wireless charging pad, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. Toyota has also gone the extra mile in terms of technology, equipping the TRD Sport with an 8-inch touchscreen featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
But how does the TRD Sport fare when it comes to off-roading?
The TRD Sport provides a smooth ride, agile handling, and responsive steering. It delivers a decent punch of acceleration, and its spacious cabin is a testament to modern technology and design.
Furthermore, it surpasses the TRD Off Road in terms of towing capacity, boasting an impressive 6,800 lbs compared to the Off Road’s 6,700 lbs²³. Additionally, it offers a wider range of configuration options, including different cab sizes, bed lengths, and drivetrains.
However, every silver lining has its cloud. The TRD Sport’s ground clearance is slightly limited, measuring 9.4 inches compared to the TRD Off Road’s 9.8 inches.
It lacks skid plates and a locking rear differential, which may decrease traction on rough terrain. Lower approach and departure angles (29 degrees compared to 32 degrees and 21 degrees compared to 23.5 degrees) and a higher risk of body damage can make off-roading less convenient.
To top it off, the TRD Sport falls a bit short in terms of fuel economy, offering 18/22 mpg city/highway compared to the Off Road’s 19/24 mpg city/highway)²³.
In essence, the TRD Sport offers a fantastic balance of style, versatility, and everyday comfort, with a considerable degree of off-road potential. It’s all about understanding what you need from your vehicle and how much you’re willing to modify to enhance its off-road performance.
TRD Off Road: Embrace the Rugged Adventure
The TRD Off Road Tacoma brings together power and off-road prowess in a remarkable way.
Its engine and transmission specifications are identical to those of the TRD Sport. However, it stands out with its part-time four-wheel drive equipped with an electronic transfer case and automatic limited-slip differential.
The off-road-tuned suspension with Bilstein shocks and progressive-rate leaf springs ensures a ride that can conquer even the trickiest terrains.
Featuring 16-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tires, black fender flares, chrome grille accents, and projector-beam headlights with LED daytime running lights, the TRD Off Road exudes strength and capability.
The interior matches that of the TRD Sport, but with the added benefit of a multi-terrain monitor equipped with front, rear, and side cameras. In terms of safety features, the TRD Off Road mirrors the TRD Sport but offers additional benefits like crawl control, multi-terrain select, and a locking rear differential system.
When it comes to off-roading, the TRD Off Road has its share of advantages and considerations. On the plus side, it boasts higher ground clearance (9.8 inches), enhanced protection with skid plates and a locking rear differential, improved traction on rough terrain thanks to all-terrain tires, higher approach and departure angles, and additional off-road features and technology like crawl control and multi-terrain select.
On the flip side, it offers a firmer ride quality, less agile handling, heavier steering, lower towing capacity (6,700 lbs), and fewer configuration options. Additionally, with a starting price of $35,635, it’s slightly more expensive than the TRD Sport.
Making the Choice: TRD Sport vs TRD Off Road for Off-Roading
The TRD Sport and TRD Off Road models share the same engine, transmission, safety features, and interior appointments. However, the TRD Off Road is more focused on off-road performance, boasting higher ground clearance, additional off-road technology like crawl control and multi-terrain select, and tougher tires and suspension.
On the other hand, the TRD Sport offers a smoother ride, agile handling, and a slightly higher towing capacity. It’s a more urban-friendly model designed to strike a balance between everyday usability and occasional off-roading.
The choice between the two models ultimately depends on your personal preferences, needs, budget, and driving habits.
If you frequently venture off the beaten path, the TRD Off Road, with its robust off-road capabilities, is worth the investment.
On the contrary, if you’re looking for a versatile pickup truck that handles well in the city and can handle occasional off-road adventures, the TRD Sport is a viable option.
Real-life stories from owners echo these preferences. TRD Sport owners who use their trucks for daily driving and occasional off-road trips have found the model’s capabilities to be sufficient. TRD Off Road owners who spend a significant amount of time on rough terrains have appreciated the model’s more rugged and robust features.
Final Thoughts
In summary, both the TRD Sport and TRD Off Road are capable trucks that uphold Toyota’s reputation for durability and performance. Each model carries a distinct appeal – the TRD Sport is a versatile, stylish truck ideal for everyday driving and occasional off-roading, while the TRD Off Road is a more rugged, capable model designed to tackle more challenging terrains.
While each model has its strengths, the TRD Off Road emerges as the more capable off-roader due to its advanced off-road features, higher ground clearance, and better traction. However, the choice ultimately rests on your specific needs, preferences, and the type of driving you plan to do.
So, which one is your pick? Are you more inclined towards the stylish and versatile TRD Sport, or do you prefer the rugged and adventure-ready TRD Off Road? Share your thoughts and join the conversation!
