2024 Tacoma TRD Pro Daily Driver
After spending a full week behind the wheel of the all-new Tacoma Trd Pro, I’ve had the chance to really understand what this premium trim package offers beyond the typical off-road test course experience. Toyota provided this vehicle for review, allowing me to assess its suitability as a daily driver – a very different scenario than pushing its limits off-road. It’s safe to say that daily driving reveals a different side to this truck compared to high-speed off-road adventures.
This article dives into the pros and cons I discovered while using the Tacoma TRD Pro in everyday situations. For a more visual perspective, you can also check out my YouTube channel where I further break down my experiences.
Ultimately, while the Tacoma TRD Pro is built for conquering trails, the question is: how well does it handle the daily grind? Let’s explore the details.
The Upsides of the Tacoma TRD Pro
Ice Cap 2024 Tacoma TRD Pro
If you’re considering a new Tacoma TRD Pro, there are compelling reasons to be excited. This latest iteration feels like the first truly deserving of the “Pro” designation. Past Tacoma TRD Pro models often felt like minor upgrades over the TRD Off-Road, mostly badge-deep with slightly enhanced shocks. However, the 2024 model significantly elevates the game, setting itself apart in several key areas. Here are three standout pros that truly impressed me:
Commanding Road Presence
This truck makes a statement wherever it goes. Its sheer visual bulk and aggressive styling are undeniable. The wide fenders, gloss black accents, integrated light bar, robust ARB rear bumper, prominent red recovery hooks, TRD skid plate, black roof accents, and bold cockpit red interior all contribute to an attention-grabbing aesthetic.
For Toyota aficionados, spotting a TRD Pro is usually straightforward. But with this completely redesigned model, there’s no mistaking it for a standard TRD Off-Road. My initial reaction upon seeing it arrive was genuinely impressed by its striking appearance. Even parked next to my own Off-Road model, the TRD Pro exudes a clear sense of purpose and capability.
Potent Hybrid Powertrain
The Tacoma TRD Pro comes standard with the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, delivering an impressive 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This engine is a game-changer. After a week of daily driving, the hybrid powertrain completely won me over. My next truck will definitely feature this hybrid setup. While the standard 2.4L turbo engine is competent, the hybrid offers a noticeable boost in performance and responsiveness.
Despite not consciously trying to maximize fuel economy and even indulging in some full-throttle acceleration to experience the power, I still managed to achieve 21 MPG on the standard 33-inch tires. Regardless of any initial skepticism about a 4-cylinder engine, the performance of this hybrid system is genuinely impressive and delivers on its promises.
Surprisingly Good TRD Exhaust Note
Toyota has achieved something remarkable with the TRD exhaust on this 4-cylinder engine – it sounds fantastic. Having recently upgraded my own 4G Tacoma with a MagnaFlow exhaust, which improved upon the stock sound, the TRD exhaust on the TRD Pro is on another level. It even surpasses the sound of my previous 2022 V6 TRD Pro Tacoma. The exhaust produces a pleasingly deep, raspy rumble at lower RPMs without any annoying droning at highway speeds. While there is some sound augmentation through the interior speakers, the underlying exhaust note is genuinely enjoyable and adds to the truck’s sporty character.
The Downsides for Daily Driving
Cramped Rear Leg Room With Isodynamic Seats
Despite its impressive looks and off-road capabilities, the Tacoma TRD Pro does present some drawbacks when used as a daily driver.
Annoying Hood Rattle
During the initial press launch event, the hood rattle wasn’t noticeable. However, on my first drive in this Tacoma TRD Pro, the fake hood vent began vibrating excessively. Checking online forums and owner groups, I discovered this is a common issue being reported by other drivers. Toyota needs to address this quickly with improved internal hood bracing to eliminate this distracting rattle.
Noisy Goodyear Wrangler Tires
The Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT tires, while likely capable off-road, are quite loud and produce a bouncy ride on paved roads. I would have preferred Toyota to use the same BFG tires found on the TRD Off-Road model, which I found to be a good balance of on-road comfort and off-road capability during my 4,000 miles of experience with them on my 4G Tacoma. However, it’s worth noting that many Tacoma TRD Pro owners will likely replace the stock tires anyway to suit their specific needs and preferences.
Impractical ISO Dynamic Seats
This is a tough point to concede, especially knowing the engineering effort behind the ISO Dynamic Seats. However, for daily driving, these seats are simply not ideal and should arguably be offered as an option rather than standard equipment. They significantly reduce rear-seat legroom, making the back seats cramped for passengers. The seats are also heavily bolstered and feature a fixed headrest, which might be uncomfortable for individuals with a larger build. Finally, the manual lever for reclining feels out of place in a premium vehicle.
While the ISO Dynamic Seats are undoubtedly beneficial for serious off-roading, the reality is that the vast majority of the Tacoma TRD Pro’s life will be spent on regular roads. For daily driving comfort and practicality, they fall short.
Final Verdict
4th Gen Tacoma TRD Pro Real World Review
Despite these daily driving downsides, I genuinely enjoyed my week with the Tacoma TRD Pro. Whether it was the potent hybrid powertrain or its commanding presence on the road, this truck left a lasting impression. My week with it flew by too quickly, and I’m already looking forward to the next opportunity to drive – or even own – a Tacoma TRD Pro. Until then, I’ll continue to appreciate my TRD Off-Road, which offers excellent value at a more accessible price point.
