Tacoma TRD Pro Is a Stellar Multi-purpose Tool, Says ‘Press Herald’
Combination of hardcore off-road capability and everyday live-ability make Tacoma TRD Pro a great all-rounder.
A big part of the reason why trucks are such hot sellers these days lies in their do-it-all nature. Unlike the early days, when pickups were only used for work, today’s trucks are capable of doing everything well. From providing reliable daily transportation to hitting the rockiest trails to hauling and towing large loads. And as this recent review from the Press Herald reveals, the new Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro does all of that better than most.
Press Herald sums up the off-road focused Tacoma by calling it “a functional suburban vehicle, a durable recreational tool, as well as a tough off-road warrior.” Which is why it totally dominates the mid-size pickup segment in terms of sales volume. But as Press Herald notes, it also tops the “lifestyle” vehicle category, handily out-selling the legendary Jeep Wrangler, too.
It’s common knowledge that the TRD Pro version of the Tacoma is built-to-the-hilt with a slew of hardcore off-road ready components. And as our reviewer notes, all of that pays off on the trails. “There is no denying the Tacoma’s off-roading abilities. Almost 12-inches of ground clearance (big step up into a low cab) help you cross serious obstacles, while the powertrain barely breaks a sweat in conditions that would crush mere mortal crossovers.”
The Tacoma shines on-road as well, but our reviewer did find a couple of small niggles. They grew weary of the TRD’s cat-back exhaust note on long trips. And driving on rural, bumpy Maine roads was tiring. But we’d argue that’s going to be the case with anything on pothole-filled highways. Otherwise, there’s a lot to like inside the Tacoma. “The large knurled knobs for the climate system are functionally perfect,” Press Herald said. “The headlamps are brilliant. The console is workable for two with ample pockets. The V-6 provides robust power. And like the chassis and body, the truck feels as solid as an anvil.”
Ultimately, this is a truck that hasn’t forgotten its roots. “The Tacoma TRD Pro never lets you forget it is a hard-working pickup truck first,” our reviewer notes. “The sales numbers tell us that a lot of buyers want that.” And this is one instance where the numbers most certainly don’t lie.
Photos: Toyota
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