Trd sport vs trd off road tacoma – TRD Sport vs TRD Off-Road Tacoma: Which One Is Right for You? When it comes to choosing a midsize pickup truck, the Toyota Tacoma is a popular choice. It’s known for its reliability, durability, and off-road capability. But which Tacoma trim level is right for you? The TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road are two of the most popular options, but they offer different features and capabilities.
In this article, we’ll compare the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road Tacoma to help you decide which one is right for you.
TRD Sport vs TRD Off-Road Tacoma: Trd Sport Vs Trd Off Road Tacoma
The TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road Tacoma models are two popular variants of the Toyota Tacoma pickup truck, each designed for different purposes and target audiences. While both models share the same basic platform and powertrain, they feature unique upgrades and enhancements that cater to specific off-roading and performance needs.
Intended Purposes and Target Audiences
The TRD Sport Tacoma is primarily intended for on-road performance and handling, with a focus on providing a sporty and responsive driving experience. It is well-suited for everyday driving, commuting, and occasional off-road adventures on relatively mild trails. On the other hand, the TRD Off-Road Tacoma is designed for more serious off-roading, with upgrades such as a locking rear differential, skid plates, and all-terrain tires.
It is ideal for those who frequently encounter challenging off-road conditions and require a vehicle capable of handling rugged terrain.
Performance and Handling
The TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road Tacomas offer distinct performance and handling characteristics tailored to different driving needs. Let’s delve into the details.
Engine Specifications, Trd sport vs trd off road tacoma
- Both models feature a 3.5-liter V6 engine, but with different power outputs.
- The TRD Sport produces 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, while the TRD Off-Road delivers 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque.
Acceleration and Top Speed
The TRD Sport has a slight edge in acceleration, reaching 0-60 mph in around 6.5 seconds compared to the TRD Off-Road’s 6.7 seconds.
Both models have a top speed of approximately 115 mph.
Fuel Efficiency
The TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road have similar fuel efficiency ratings.
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- The TRD Sport gets an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.
- The TRD Off-Road gets an EPA-estimated 17 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.
Handling Characteristics
The TRD Sport features a sport-tuned suspension, providing sharper handling and reduced body roll on paved roads.
The TRD Off-Road has a more rugged suspension with upgraded shock absorbers and a locking rear differential, enhancing its off-road capabilities.
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When towing, the TRD Off-Road’s upgraded suspension and towing package provide increased stability and control.
Suspension and Off-Roading Capabilities
The TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road Tacomas feature distinct suspension systems tailored to their respective driving styles and off-roading capabilities.
Suspension Systems
The TRD Sport comes equipped with a Sport-tuned suspension that prioritizes on-road handling and performance. It features Bilstein shock absorbers and a front stabilizer bar, providing a firmer and more responsive ride on paved roads.
In contrast, the TRD Off-Road boasts a more robust suspension system designed for tackling off-road challenges. It incorporates Bilstein off-road shock absorbers, a locking rear differential, and an electronically controlled rear-axle locker. These components enhance traction, stability, and articulation when navigating rough terrain.
Ground Clearance, Approach and Departure Angles, and Wheel Travel
The TRD Off-Road has a significant advantage in terms of ground clearance, with 9.4 inches compared to the TRD Sport’s 8.9 inches. This additional ground clearance allows the Off-Road model to clear obstacles and traverse uneven surfaces with greater ease.
The TRD Off-Road also excels in approach and departure angles, with 32 degrees and 23 degrees respectively, compared to the TRD Sport’s 29 degrees and 20 degrees. These improved angles provide a better attack and departure point when encountering steep inclines and descents.
Furthermore, the TRD Off-Road offers greater wheel travel, enabling it to absorb impacts and maintain contact with the ground even on rough terrain. Its front and rear wheel travel is 9.6 inches and 10.3 inches, respectively, while the TRD Sport has 8.6 inches and 9.5 inches of travel.
Off-Road Performance
In off-road conditions, the TRD Off-Road proves its superiority. Its suspension system, ground clearance, and approach/departure angles make it highly capable in rock crawling, hill climbing, and mudding.
The locking rear differential and rear-axle locker provide exceptional traction, allowing the TRD Off-Road to power through slippery surfaces and maintain momentum on steep inclines. The greater wheel travel enables it to navigate obstacles without losing traction or damaging the undercarriage.
Exterior Design and Features
The Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road models stand out with their distinct exterior styling elements. The TRD Sport exudes an athletic stance, featuring a sleek black grille with a honeycomb mesh insert and a prominent “TOYOTA” lettering. Its front bumper incorporates integrated fog lights, while the rear bumper features a black diffuser-style design.
The TRD Off-Road, on the other hand, emphasizes ruggedness with a bolder grille design, complete with the “TRD” logo. It boasts a front skid plate for enhanced off-road protection and a rear bumper with integrated tow hooks.
Wheels and Accessories
Both models offer unique wheel designs. The TRD Sport rides on 17-inch black alloy wheels with a sporty spoke pattern, while the TRD Off-Road features 16-inch alloy wheels with a more rugged design. Available exterior accessories include blacked-out side steps, skid plates, and a variety of decals to further enhance the distinct personalities of these trucks.
Interior Features and Technology
The TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road Tacomas offer distinct interior designs and features tailored to their respective target audiences.
In terms of seating configurations, both models come standard with front bucket seats and a 60/40 split-folding rear bench seat. However, the TRD Sport features upgraded sport seats with bolstered side supports for enhanced comfort and support during spirited driving.
Upholstery Options
Regarding upholstery options, the TRD Sport offers a choice between premium fabric or leather-trimmed seats, while the TRD Off-Road comes with durable fabric upholstery designed to withstand the rigors of off-road adventures.
Infotainment Systems
Both models feature a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration. The TRD Off-Road comes standard with a premium JBL audio system with eight speakers, while the TRD Sport offers an optional JBL Premium Audio system with nine speakers for an immersive sound experience.
Interior Accessories and Technology Upgrades
In terms of interior accessories and technology upgrades, both models offer a range of options to enhance comfort, convenience, and connectivity. These include a power moonroof, heated front seats, a wireless charging pad, and a navigation system.
Pricing and Value
The TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road Tacomas offer distinct value propositions based on their intended purposes and capabilities.The TRD Sport, with its focus on on-road performance, is priced slightly lower than the TRD Off-Road, starting at around $38,000 compared to $39,000. Both trims come with a standard set of features that include a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of safety features.
Standard and Optional Features
The TRD Sport comes with a sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a rear-wheel-drive configuration. Optional features include a four-wheel-drive system, a sunroof, and a premium JBL sound system.The TRD Off-Road, on the other hand, is equipped with a more rugged suspension, 16-inch alloy wheels, and a four-wheel-drive system with a locking rear differential.
Optional features include a crawl control system, a front-facing camera, and a rear-seat entertainment system.
Estimated Resale Values
According to Kelley Blue Book, the TRD Sport has an estimated resale value of around 60% after five years, while the TRD Off-Road has an estimated resale value of around 65%. This indicates that the TRD Off-Road is likely to retain its value better over time due to its increased off-road capabilities and features.
Cost-to-Value Ratio
The TRD Sport offers a good value for buyers seeking a sporty and capable on-road pickup truck. Its lower price point and optional features make it an attractive option for those who prioritize performance over off-road prowess.The TRD Off-Road, with its more rugged suspension, four-wheel-drive system, and locking rear differential, provides better value for buyers who intend to use their truck for off-road adventures.
Its higher resale value further enhances its cost-to-value ratio.Ultimately, the best value proposition between the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road depends on the individual buyer’s needs and priorities.
Last Point
Ultimately, the best way to decide which Tacoma trim level is right for you is to test drive both of them. That way, you can see firsthand how they handle and which one better suits your needs. But if you’re looking for a sporty truck that’s still capable of handling some off-roading, the TRD Sport is a great choice.
And if you’re looking for a truck that’s built for serious off-roading, the TRD Off-Road is the way to go.
Essential FAQs
What’s the difference between the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road Tacoma?
The TRD Sport is designed for on-road performance, while the TRD Off-Road is designed for off-roading. The TRD Sport has a sport-tuned suspension, while the TRD Off-Road has a more rugged suspension with more ground clearance. The TRD Off-Road also comes with a locking rear differential and crawl control, which are helpful for off-roading.
Which Tacoma trim level is right for me?
The best Tacoma trim level for you depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a sporty truck that’s still capable of handling some off-roading, the TRD Sport is a great choice. If you’re looking for a truck that’s built for serious off-roading, the TRD Off-Road is the way to go.
How much does a TRD Sport or TRD Off-Road Tacoma cost?
The price of a TRD Sport or TRD Off-Road Tacoma will vary depending on the model year, cab configuration, and options. However, you can expect to pay around $35,000 to $45,000 for a TRD Sport and around $37,000 to $47,000 for a TRD Off-Road.