Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro
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Just as the 4Runner is Toyota’s go-to 4×4 SUV, its Tacoma and the new and insane TRD Pro package it comes with is the Japanese automaker’s go-to 4×4 truck. The regular ole’ compact (or “mid-size” as some call it) pickup has been around for some time, earning a reputation for nearly unmatched reliability and off-road prowess with even minor modifications. But what about the new TRD Pro in particularly?
In short, professionals and critics have labeled the TRD Pro the “everyman’s Raptor”: An economic but seemingly equally-capable version of Ford’s luxury and excessive Baja runner. At first glance, the TRD Pro seems to depart the “nimble” status of the base truck, favoring a brutish, snub-nose front end and trophy truck-esque front bumper with an angled skid plate. Other first glance details include the simplistically genius wheel wells – they’re extra wide and tucked up high, favoring longer suspension travel and big, meaty tires.
The Raptor is a tech whizz of a 4×4 machine, and the TRD Pro is no different – though physically, the Pro is more suited for tight trails and mountainous areas, whereas the Raptor is a big, bulky, and wide open runner. Tech for the TRD Pro includes a smart multi-mode traction control system, Crawl Control, hill start assist, and available onboard air for airing down (and back up) your tires. That all guarantees a consistent walking speed over any obstacle and terrain. Of course, an electronically locking rear diff with skid plate is a provided necessity, and the stock rubber meats you get from Toyota are Kevlar-reinforced Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrains. The TRD Pro enjoys a 1” lift over the stock truck, which doesn’t sound like much but certainly makes a difference.
That’s because within that additional 1” rests Fox internal bypass shocks. They provide professional-grade damping and can seriously take some hits, and a two-speed transfer case is included as the gold standard for all proper off-road trucks. Inside the truck, the TRD Pro is surprisingly barebones. There is no booming sound system nor height-adjustable driver’s seat. The leather feels more like vinyl than proper hide, and the interior generally feels minimal – but that’s on purpose. This is a truck you won’t be afraid to muddy up, scratch up, or ding up, inside or out.
It uses a classic formula in a modern package that feels just right (including 9.4” of ground clearance and impressive approach and departure angles). Most Tacomas sold over the past 10 to 15 years are still on the road, the new TRD Pro’s own 3.5L V6 will likely last just as long, even with plenty of abuse and low-gear crawling. The TRD Pro’s Fox shocks are reported to be some of the best on the market, says many owners and professional wheelers.
