TRD Sport vs TRD Off Road: Which One Is Right for You?
The Toyota Tacoma is a popular midsize pickup truck that comes in a variety of trims, including the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road.
Both trims offer unique features and capabilities that cater to different driving needs. In this article, we will explore the differences between the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road to help buyers make an informed decision.
The TRD Sport is designed for drivers who prioritize on-road performance and style. It boasts a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a hood scoop, giving it a more aggressive look and feel.
The TRD Sport also comes with a rear-wheel drive system, although buyers can opt for a four-wheel drive system as well. On the other hand, the TRD Off-Road is built for off-road adventures, with features such as a locking rear differential, crawl control, and multi-terrain select.
It also comes with specially tuned Bilstein shocks and a suspension system that can handle rough terrain with ease.
When it comes to pricing, the TRD Sport is generally less expensive than the TRD Off-Road. However, buyers should consider their driving needs and preferences when making a decision.
Those who prioritize on-road performance and style may find the TRD Sport to be a better fit, while those who enjoy off-road adventures should consider the TRD Off-Road.
TRD Sport vs TRD Off-Road: An Overview
The Toyota Tacoma is a popular midsize pickup truck that comes in a variety of trims, including the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road. Both trims offer unique features and capabilities that cater to different driving needs.
The TRD Sport is designed for drivers who prioritize style and performance. It comes with a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a hood scoop. It also features a color-keyed bumper, grille surround, and mirrors, as well as a chrome rear bumper.
Inside, the TRD Sport boasts a leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob, as well as a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
On the other hand, the TRD Off-Road is built for drivers who want to tackle tough terrain. It comes with an off-road-tuned suspension, Bilstein shocks, and 16-inch alloy wheels. It also features a locking rear differential, crawl control, and multi-terrain select.
The TRD Off-Road also has unique styling, with black fender flares and a TRD Off-Road badge. Inside, it comes with all-weather floor mats and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
One of the main differences between the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road is their suspension. The TRD Sport has a sport-tuned suspension that provides a more responsive and agile driving experience on the road.
Meanwhile, the TRD Off-Road has an off-road-tuned suspension that can handle rough terrain and provide a smoother ride off the pavement.
Another difference is in their wheels. The TRD Sport comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, while the TRD Off-Road comes with 16-inch alloy wheels. The TRD Off-Road’s wheels are designed to provide more traction and stability off-road.
Overall, the TRD Sport is a great choice for drivers who want a stylish and sporty pickup truck that can handle daily driving needs. The TRD Off-Road, on the other hand, is ideal for drivers who want a pickup truck that can handle tough terrain and off-road adventures.
Performance and Capability
When it comes to performance and capability, both the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road models have their own unique strengths. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key factors that differentiate the two models.
Engine and Powertrain
Both the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road come with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, which is paired with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. The V6 engine delivers 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of power for both on-road and off-road driving.
Suspension and Shocks
The TRD Sport is equipped with a sport-tuned suspension, which provides a more responsive and agile driving experience on paved roads. The TRD Off-Road, on the other hand, features a suspension system that is optimized for off-road performance.
This includes Bilstein shocks, which provide excellent damping and control over rough terrain. Some TRD Off-Road models also come with Fox brand shocks, which are even more capable and rugged.
Drivetrain and Transmission
Both the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road are available with either rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The four-wheel-drive models come with a part-time four-wheel-drive system, which can be engaged when needed for improved traction and control.
The TRD Off-Road also comes with a locking rear differential, which provides even more traction in challenging off-road conditions.
Overall, the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road are both highly capable and impressive vehicles, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Whether you prioritize on-road performance or off-road capability, there is a TRD model that will meet your needs.
Off-Roading Features
When it comes to off-roading, the TRD Off-Road is the clear winner between the two Tacoma models. It is specifically designed for off-road adventures and comes with a range of features that make it capable of handling rough terrains.
Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control
As per Cochran Toyota, one of the key features of the TRD Off-Road is the Multi-Terrain Select system, which allows the driver to adjust the vehicle’s traction control to match the terrain they are driving on. This feature is especially useful when driving on uneven surfaces or steep inclines.
Another feature that comes with the TRD Off-Road is the Crawl Control system. This feature allows the driver to set a low speed and let the vehicle do the work, controlling the throttle and brakes while the driver focuses on steering. This is particularly useful when driving on rocky terrain or steep hills.
Locking Rear Differential
The TRD Off-Road also comes with an electronically controlled locking rear differential, which provides better traction and stability when driving on uneven surfaces.
This feature ensures that both rear wheels turn together, providing equal power to both wheels and preventing one wheel from spinning.
In contrast, the TRD Sport does not come with a locking rear differential, which limits its off-road capabilities. While the TRD Sport may have a sportier look and feel, it is not designed for serious off-roading.
In addition to these features, the TRD Off-Road also comes with off-road tires and increased ground clearance, making it better suited for off-road adventures. Overall, if off-roading is a priority, the TRD Off-Road is the better choice between the two Tacoma models.
Exterior and Interior Design
Exterior Features
The TRD Sport and TRD Off Road models of the Toyota Tacoma have unique exterior designs. The Tacoma TRD Sport has a sporty appearance with color-keyed bumpers, hood scoop, and fender flares. It also has LED headlights, fog lights, and alloy wheels.
The TRD decals on the sides of the vehicle give it a bold look. On the other hand, the Tacoma TRD Off Road has a more rugged appearance with black overfenders, skid plates, and an aluminum skid plate for the engine.
The TRD Off Road also has a hood scoop, but it is not color-keyed like the TRD Sport. The TRD Off Road has a more aggressive stance with its 16-inch alloy wheels and all-terrain tires.
Interior Features
The Tacoma TRD Sport and TRD Off Road models have similar interior designs. Both models have a comfortable and roomy cabin with a variety of features. The TRD Sport has sport seats with leather trim and the TRD logo embroidered on the headrests.
The TRD Off Road has fabric-trimmed seats with the TRD logo on the headrests. Both models have power-adjustable driver’s seats with lumbar support.
The TRD Sport and TRD Off Road also have a 7-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The TRD Off Road has an auto-dimming day/night rearview mirror, while the TRD Sport does not.
Special Editions
The Tacoma TRD Sport and TRD Off Road models have special editions that add even more unique features to the vehicles. The TRD Sport has a Trail Special Edition that includes black badging, a 120-volt power outlet in the bed, all-weather floor mats, and an upgraded audio system.
The TRD Off Road has a Nightshade Special Edition that includes blacked-out exterior trim, black leather-trimmed seats, and dark smoke-colored headlights.
Overall, the TRD Sport and TRD Off Road models of the Toyota Tacoma have distinct exterior and interior designs that cater to different preferences.
The TRD Sport has a sporty appearance, while the TRD Off Road has a more rugged look. Both models have comfortable and well-equipped interiors, and there are special editions available for those who want even more unique features.
Safety and Technology
Safety Features
The TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road both come with Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of advanced safety features that includes lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
Additionally, both models come with hill-start control, which prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards when starting on a steep incline.
In terms of crash safety, both the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road have received high ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
However, the TRD Off-Road is equipped with additional safety features such as a multi-terrain monitor, which provides a 360-degree view of the vehicle’s surroundings, and a panoramic camera, which gives the driver a bird’s-eye view of the terrain.
Technology Features
The TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road both come with a 7-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speaker sound system. However, the TRD Off-Road has a few additional technology features that set it apart.
For example, it comes with a navigation system that includes real-time traffic updates, and a multi-terrain monitor that allows the driver to see the terrain around the vehicle.
Both models also come with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which allow the driver to access their phone’s apps and features through the vehicle’s touchscreen display.
Additionally, the TRD Off-Road comes with a 15-speaker JBL sound system, which provides a higher level of audio quality than the TRD Sport’s six-speaker system.
Overall, both the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road come with a solid set of safety and technology features.
While the TRD Off-Road has a few additional features that set it apart, the TRD Sport is still a great option for those who prioritize performance and style over additional safety and technology features.
Other Tacoma Trim Levels and Variations
In addition to the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road trims, the Tacoma is available in several other trim levels. The SR is the base model, with features like a 7-inch touchscreen display, a backup camera, and Toyota Safety Sense P.
The SR5 adds features like a chrome rear bumper and a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. The Limited trim is the most luxurious, with leather-trimmed seats, a power moonroof, and dual-zone automatic climate control.
The TRD Pro is the most off-road capable, with features like Fox shocks, a TRD Pro skid plate, and a TRD Pro cat-back exhaust.
Here’s the scoop: the Tacoma comes in different flavors, each with its own set of goodies and choices. So, whether you’re after a no-frills workhorse or a decked-out off-road beast, the Tacoma’s got a version that’s just right for your needs and your wallet.
To Summarize
In summary, the Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road are both reliable and capable trucks that offer unique features and benefits.
The TRD Sport is geared towards those who want a blend of on-road comfort and off-road capability, while the TRD Off-Road is designed for rugged terrain and extreme off-road adventures.
In terms of specs, both trims come with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. They also both offer a choice between a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.
However, the TRD Off-Road comes with a locking rear differential, crawl control, and multi-terrain select, which are not available on the TRD Sport.
When it comes to materials, both trims offer high-quality materials and finishes, including leather-trimmed seats, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, and a premium audio system.
The TRD Off-Road also comes with all-weather floor mats and a power sliding rear window, which are not available on the TRD Sport.
Overall, the choice between the TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road comes down to personal preference and intended use.
If you prioritize on-road comfort and occasional off-road adventures, the TRD Sport is a great choice. If you plan on tackling extreme off-road terrain and need advanced off-road features, the TRD Off-Road is the way to go.
