When the “all-new” 2016 Tacoma launched last year, we knew it was only a matter of time before the team at TRD would roll out a gussied-up TRD Pro version of the standard Taco. Given that the last TRD Pro was barely more than an appearance package, we weren’t expecting much, so when the wraps came off the 2017 iteration, we were pleasantly surprised by what Toyota had put together.
The 2017 TRD Pro follows the sensible, not-remarkable-you’d-expect-that-from-Toyota formula established with the prior generation:
- No major architecture changes: keep the bodywork, track width, and drivetrain identical to the regular Tacoma. Overall this isn’t a bad thing, however every look at the forthcoming 2017 Ford Raptor (with unique bodywork, drivetrain, and suspension architecture) shows what could-have-been, and makes you pissed at Toyota for not swinging for the fences like Ford.
- Make it look cooler: special paint, decals, TOYOTA grille, embroidered headrests, etc. The reason I bet 90% of TRD Pro buyers buy this truck versus the standard TRD Off-Road version.
- Wheels: 16” TRD Pro Wheels shod in tires you’ll probably want to replace immediately. This go-round, the Goodyear tires are real head-scratchers – not sure why Toyota didn’t put a more aggressive AT on the 2017 (I blame CAFE/the EPA…).
- Skids: an actually useable Aluminum front engine skid is mounted up front. Too bad Toyota didn’t go ahead and complete the set with equal protection for the transfer case, cross member, and gas tank!
- Suspension: replace the standard TRD off-road suspension with upgraded shocks and springs with a slightly higher ride height. For 2017, Toyota upped their suspension game, fitting 2.5” diameter Fox internal bypass position-sensitive shocks in the front and rear. This is a huge improvement in performance capability vs. the Bilsteins on the last generation. It doesn’t appear that the control arms or anything besides springs and shocks are different vs. non TRD Pros. I can’t wait to actually drive one and see how they perform relative the the aftermarket 2.5” diameter options.
- (New for 2017) Lighting: With every bro-dozer in the U.S. now rocking at least 3 Ebay light bars, Toyota has added upgraded lighting to the 2017 TRD Pro, integrating Rigid Industries LED foglight into the bumper. The factory integration certainly looks clean, and Rigid makes powerful, high-quality lights.
Photo Credits: toyota.com and cnet.com
So should I get one? Like our answer last time, it really depends. If you must have the coolest looking Tacoma from the factory, this is your truck. If you are planning on doing your own body and suspension mods, this isn’t your truck. Save the presumed $4,500 TRD Pro and go with the TRD Off-Road.
Bottom Line: The new TRD Pro is a great-looking and capable option from the factory. The big news on this one is definitely the internal bypass Fox shocks and accompanying springs. It sure would be nice if those were offered as a standalone option on the TRD Off-Road without the visual fru-fru and markup of the Pro.
Read More: If you want to read an impression from dudes that have already driven the truck, go check out this feature on Expedition Portal: Exclusive 2017 Tacoma TRD Pro Test
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