2025 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Off-Road and On-Road Review // Is it Overpriced or Worth it?

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro is here to redefine what a midsize off-road truck can do. With rugged styling, impressive off-road credentials, and modern tech, it’s the most capable Tacoma yet. But at a steep price and facing a growing list of competitors, does it have what it takes to stay on top of the midsize truck market? Let’s break it all down.

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Driving, Handling, Power & Fuel Economy

Under the hood of the TRD Pro sits Toyota's new 2.4L i-Force Max turbocharged hybrid engine. Producing a hefty 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque, it’s the most powerful Tacoma ever. Mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, the hybrid seamlessly transitions between electric and gasoline power. The result? A 0-60 mph time of 7.1 seconds—not sports car territory, but brisk for a truck of this size.

The i-Force Max is not just about power; it’s also efficient. With a combined 23 mpg, the TRD Pro outpaces the outgoing V6 Tacoma by a significant margin. And yes, the TRD Pro can tow—up to 6,000 pounds, making it perfect for hauling gear to remote trails or weekend adventures.

On the road, the Tacoma feels more refined than ever. Steering is sharper, body control is improved, and the suspension strikes a solid balance between comfort and off-road capability. However, you’re always reminded you’re in a truck—especially with the all-terrain tires generating noticeable road noise.

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Off-Roading: A Baja-Style Beast

Off-road, the Tacoma TRD Pro truly shines. This is a truck that’s happiest when kicking up dirt and flying over dunes. With its 2-inch front lift, 1.5-inch rear lift, and 11.5 inches of ground clearance, it can tackle even the most challenging terrain.

The TRD Pro’s off-road arsenal includes 2.5-inch Fox QS3 internal bypass shocks with remote reservoirs, Fox hydraulic bump stops for softer landings after jumps, and forged aluminum upper control arms for added durability. Crawl Control, Multi-Terrain Select modes, and an electronically disconnecting front stabilizer bar ensure that no obstacle—mud, rocks, or sand—stands in its way.

New to the TRD Pro are Toyota’s IsoDynamic seats, which use built-in suspension to reduce lateral head movement on rough terrain. While the difference may be subtle to some, they contribute to the truck’s overall comfort during high-speed off-road adventures.

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Exterior Styling

The Tacoma TRD Pro is rugged and unapologetically bold. Exclusive to the TRD Pro is the eye-catching Terra color, along with functional touches like a hood vent, rigid fog lights, a light bar (active only with high beams), and recovery hooks. The aggressive stance is complemented by 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler tires, beefy skid plates, and ARB rock sliders for extra underbody protection.

Toyota has also included practical off-road details, like a tailgate with integrated power outlets and plenty of LED lighting for nighttime trail runs. The TRD Pro looks every bit the adventure machine it’s designed to be.

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Interior, Tech, and Features

The Tacoma’s cabin has taken a massive step forward. The 14-inch infotainment touchscreen (standard on the TRD Pro) supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 12.3-inch customizable digital gauge cluster adds a futuristic touch, while heads-up displays, physical climate controls, and a JBL removable Bluetooth speaker blend tech with practicality.

The IsoDynamic seats steal the show with their off-road-focused design, while the overall interior materials—faux carbon fiber, red stitching, and durable plastics—emphasize function over luxury. Heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and double-pane windows elevate the experience.

Second-row space is limited, but the truck bed is packed with utility, offering a 5-foot bed, multiple power outlets, and robust tie-down points. The TRD Pro balances comfort and practicality with off-road toughness.

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Conclusion and Pricing

The 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro delivers an exceptional mix of off-road performance, on-road comfort, and modern technology. Priced at $65,000 USD (approximately $77,000 CAD), it’s one of the most expensive midsize trucks on the market. That hefty price tag includes Toyota’s renowned reliability and a feature set designed to dominate the trails.

Competitors?

Let’s look at how the TRD Pro stacks up:

Ford Ranger Raptor: With more power and arguably better suspension for high-speed off-road driving, the Ranger Raptor offers a serious challenge. However, the Tacoma TRD Pro edges it out in reliability and hybrid efficiency.

Chevrolet Colorado ZR2: The Colorado offers impressive off-road chops and a lower price point, but it can’t match the Tacoma’s hybrid efficiency or Toyota’s bulletproof reputation.

Jeep Gladiator Rubicon: If rock crawling is your thing, the Gladiator excels. But for high-speed desert runs and everyday usability, the Tacoma has the edge.

For those seeking a midsize off-road truck that can do it all—climb, jump, tow, and daily commute—the Tacoma TRD Pro is hard to beat. However, if you’re looking for something larger, the Tundra TRD Pro is only $7,000 more and offers significantly more space and comfort.

In the end, the Tacoma TRD Pro isn’t for everyone. It’s for those who dream of wide-open trails, sand dunes, and rugged mountains—and want a truck that will never let them down, no matter how far they stray from the pavement.