Featured Vehicle: Terrill Graham’s 2016 Tacoma

While some folks have probably yet-to-see a new 2016 Tacoma on the road, our good friend and occasional off-roading partner Terrill Graham has wasted no time not only modifying his 2016 TRD Off-Road Tacoma Quad cab but also taking it off the beaten path.

We did a little Q&A, which those of you shopping for new vehicles and those of you just curious about the new platform should find helpful:

• Q(Ben): Over the years we have known you you’ve had several off-road capable vehicles. With that history, why’d you go with the Tacoma, and how long have you had it now?
• A(Terrill): I purchased the truck at the beginning of December, after I decided that a Four Wheel Camper was the route I wanted to go for my camping/truck setup. At the time I had a 2014 4Runner Trail, and while it was a capable off road rig, it left me wanting more. From the various types of trips I take I often find myself spending the night in places where tent camping is not permitted. The switch between 4Runner and Tacoma was my first step towards reaching a goal that I had been dreaming of for a long time now.

• Q(Ben): Now that you’ve had the new Taco for several weeks, what is your first impression versus the other trucks you’ve owned?
• A(Terrill): Over the last 10 years I’ve owned a variety of off road capable vehicles. I started out with Jeeps, and after having a built 2011 Unlimited Rubicon I made the switch to Toyota and purchased a 2013 FJ Cruiser. Everyone knows Jeeps are more superior in most off roading situations but their reliability will always be questionable. After spending some time behind the wheel of the Tacoma, I can honestly say hands down it is the best overall vehicle I’ve owned. Without going into too much detail, the FJ was great off road and probably the most capable Toyota I’ve owned. Due to its overall size being smaller than the 4Runner and Tacoma, the FJ felt like it was at home driving down the narrow trails on the East Coast. However, the smaller size that made it capable is also what pushed me in the direction of a 4Runner. Since the FJ is smaller I struggled to find a place for all of my gear and the 4Runner allowed me to carry everything inside while having room to spare. As far as comparing the 4Runner and Tacoma, they both are very similar with only a few differences. One thing that I miss about the 4Runner is the upright seating position. In the Tacoma you feel that you are setting down closer to the floor and it forces your knees higher. I don’t consider myself a tall guy but I did notice this after a long trip in the Tacoma. It’s not something that I would consider a negative but for taller people it maybe something that they have an issue with.

• Q(Ben): What are your favorite features on the new Tacoma?
• A(Terrill): I’ll give you three:
  1. ETC button – With just the push of a button I’m able to increase the response of the truck. On days when the truck loaded down with gear I’m able to engage the ETC and it provides enough response to keep the power up in the truck. By having this option it takes away the need for a regear with larger tires or the desire for more power.
  2. Crawl Control – I’ve used this in the snow on a few occasions and it really works. Just by having it in my truck gives me more confidence to get out and explore.
  3. Open Bed – With all of my previous vehicles being SUVs I assumed I would dislike having an open bed. However, this has not been the case. Having the extra space is one thing, but being able to toss dirty gear and other stuff in the bed is a lot easier than I imagined.

• Q(Ben): So, the truck is obviously no longer stock – what have you modified so far?
• A(Terrill): I’ve done some basics to enhance the capability of the truck, including adding a 4” BDS lift and 285/65/18 BF Goodrich K02 tires on KMC XD Bully Wheels. I’ve also added a hidden front winch mount that is housing a Smittybilt XRC 9500b winch with synthetic line to add self recovery capability when I’m out solo.

• Q(Ben): So what’s next?
• A(Terrill): I’m currently waiting on the delivery of my Four Wheel Camper, which should arrive mid to late March. Until then the truck will remain the same. I’m sure as I go out on more trips I will come up with ideas but for now I think this is the perfect setup for someone like myself.

There you have it – Terrill knows exactly what he’s looking for, and so far it seems like the Tacoma is going to be a great fit for the types of travel and off-road exploration he seeks.