Road vs. trail: toyota tacoma limited vs trd off road – which is the better choice for you?

What To Know

  • The Tacoma Limited features a double-wishbone front suspension and a leaf-spring rear suspension, providing a balanced ride on both paved and unpaved roads.
  • The Toyota Tacoma Limited has a maximum towing capacity of 6,800 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,685 pounds.
  • The TRD Off-Road offers a better value for off-road enthusiasts, providing superior off-road capabilities and a more affordable price point.

The Toyota Tacoma is a legendary off-road beast that has captured the hearts of adventure enthusiasts for decades. With two prominent trim levels – Limited and TRD Off-Road – the Tacoma offers a range of capabilities to suit different off-roading needs. This comprehensive guide delves into the key differences between these two trim levels, helping you make an informed decision on your next off-road companion.

Interior Features and Comfort

The Toyota Tacoma Limited prioritizes comfort and convenience with its plush interior. It features leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, and a premium audio system with navigation and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity. The TRD Off-Road, on the other hand, focuses on durability and functionality, opting for cloth seats and a more rugged interior design.

Exterior Styling and Off-Road Capabilities

The Tacoma Limited exudes a sophisticated and refined look with its chrome accents, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a color-matched grille. The TRD Off-Road, in contrast, embodies ruggedness with its blacked-out trim, 16-inch alloy wheels, and a front skid plate. It also boasts a higher ground clearance and a locking rear differential, enhancing its off-road prowess.

Suspension and Handling

The Tacoma Limited features a double-wishbone front suspension and a leaf-spring rear suspension, providing a balanced ride on both paved and unpaved roads. The TRD Off-Road upgrades to a Bilstein off-road suspension system, offering superior articulation and stability in challenging off-road conditions.

Engine and Powertrain

Both the Tacoma Limited and TRD Off-Road are powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. However, the TRD Off-Road comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, while the Limited features a six-speed automatic transmission. The manual transmission provides greater control and engagement for off-road enthusiasts, while the automatic transmission offers convenience and smoothness.

Towing and Payload Capacity

The Toyota Tacoma Limited has a maximum towing capacity of 6,800 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,685 pounds. The TRD Off-Road offers a slightly lower towing capacity of 6,500 pounds but a higher payload capacity of 1,835 pounds. This makes the TRD Off-Road a more capable choice for hauling heavy loads off-road.

Safety Features

The Tacoma Limited and TRD Off-Road come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Toyota Safety Sense P, which includes lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The TRD Off-Road also offers a Crawl Control system, which assists in maintaining a steady pace over uneven terrain.

Value and Price

The Toyota Tacoma Limited has a higher starting price than the TRD Off-Road, with an MSRP of $45,375 compared to $43,485. However, the Limited comes with a more luxurious interior and a wider range of standard features. The TRD Off-Road offers a better value for off-road enthusiasts, providing superior off-road capabilities and a more affordable price point.

Which Trim Level is Right for You?

The choice between the Toyota Tacoma Limited and TRD Off-Road ultimately depends on your individual preferences and off-roading needs. If you prioritize comfort, luxury, and on-road performance, the Limited is an excellent choice. However, if you seek maximum off-road capability, durability, and affordability, the TRD Off-Road is the ideal choice.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Which trim level has a higher towing capacity?
A: The Tacoma Limited has a higher towing capacity of 6,800 pounds.

Q: Which trim level offers a manual transmission?
A: The TRD Off-Road comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission.

Q: Which trim level has a better off-road suspension?
A: The TRD Off-Road features a Bilstein off-road suspension system for superior articulation and stability.

Q: Which trim level has a higher payload capacity?
A: The TRD Off-Road has a higher payload capacity of 1,835 pounds.

Q: Which trim level has a more luxurious interior?
A: The Tacoma Limited features a more luxurious interior with leather-trimmed seats and a premium audio system.