Should you buy an SR5 or TRD Tacoma?

In this video I compare the new Toyota Tacoma SR5 with the TRD Sport and Offroad models. What are the differences and are the TRD models worth the upcharge? Which is the best model for you?
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[@waynes.2983]

The SR is the best model to get. It is by far the best value for the price.

[@jasonmckinney6444]

All these negative comments about people buying the truck they wanted. Who cares? If someone has the the finances available to buy the top of the line Tacoma and that is what they really want then why not? Some of these negative Nancy’s sound like broke jealous haters. Dude if you can’t afford one don’t bash on someone else because they can afford the one they want. Quit trying to manage someone else’s money and just manage your own. Worry about your own life. It’s not your problem if someone else goes into debt buying something they wanted on impulse. So whether someone goes broke buying what they wanted or someone bought something they can afford easily it’s still none of anyone else’s business. Live life and do what makes you happy! Life is short.

[@adielromano4716]

Jason McKinney well said

[@universalask]

Church

[@bigfootswatching9986]

DAM.........STOP SPENDING SO MUCH MONEY ON THIS DANG TRUCK! WAY OVERPRICE! JUST BUY THE SR5............THESE TOYOTA TRUCKS ARE NICE AND ALL BUT NOT FOR THESE PRICE! IT SHOULD START IN THE UPPER $28K FOR THE 4X4.

[@brianmcdonald9502]

A

[@DUMSUMBICH]

Dude you got down and dirty to show us what's up. I appreciate this type of review.

[@eddiesanchez8502]

I just got a black sr5 double cab 4x4. It has all the off-road abilities that I need personally, I don't really plan on going crawling or too far off the beaten path. Can't go wrong with any Tacoma imo....just depends what you need.

[@chrisginoc]

Would you recommend the SR5 4x4 over the TRD 4x4 in regards to value and needs? I would only be hauling dirt bikes or quads. Not looking to rock crawl or anything extreme.

[@alfonsojimenez2389]

Eddie sanchez what did that setup cost

[@steveho7190]

hi fellas. does the SR5 4x4 at least have a locking rear differential option?

[@Ed-lz4jv]

@@steveho7190 no

[@TheDirthound]

I live in California and am looking to get into the Mountains, most likely old mining and logging roads. Pretty rough terrain but not rock crawling. Is the SR5 4WD a good option suspension and clearance wise?

[@porschematt991]

SR5 = I have a budget TRD = I’m a badass and get what I want

[@Crosby4hyg]

I just picked up a TRD Sport 4x4 and I'm loving it so far. I didn't see a whole lot of reason to go with the TRD Offroad, since most of what I do is camping on Forest Service roads and commuting on pavement so I didn't need the crawl control etc very much. One thing to note though is that while the TRD Sport is supposed to get better mileage, the larger wheels aren't really helpful in this department. I'm only getting about 16 MPG in town, maybe 20 highway. Regardless, I don't think you can go wrong with any of these three trucks. Nice review.

[@ThePyroKnight]

I'm looking to get a sport 4x4 as my first truck when my lease is up. Im pretty much going to do all the things you just listed so that works out fine for me.

[@Shashaylah]

I got the TRD offroad for all the extra off road capabilities, ie crawling, etc. That was my biggest reason for the shorter box. The shorter box also really allows amazing turn on a dime capabilities which is sooooo nice. I recently put a canopy on mine which has helped improve my gas mileage.

[@johnnytorres277]

I bought the 2019 Sport 4x4 about 4 months ago. I personally really like the hood scoop, and painted fender flares and bumpers. I test drove about 5 Toyotas: 1 new off road 4runner, 3 off road tacos and 1 Sport, and the Sport felt far better on road, especially when turning. As far as off roading goes, I go out a lot on mild to medium trails, and out in the desert to find good, safe spots to go shooting. I have NEVER had a need for crawl control, multi terrain select, rear diff locker. 4wd on the stock tires has gotten me everywhere I need to go and even just 2wd works on many trails. Once the stock tires wear out , I’ll get some good all terrains. I don’t plan to EVER do any serious rock crawling that will damage my 40k truck, so I have zero need for the locker.

[@Leonidas6674]

I got a 2004 tacoma sr5 trd off road, 4x4 with differential lock ,and a 2 inch suspension lift. K&N complete air filter, super chip.and flowmasters with all terrains and only 98,000 miles. I recently met a man with the same yr but it was a pre runner and he had 315,000. Pound for pound best truck in lightweight trucks In my opinion! Damn thing is unstoppable beast on and off road still get great mileage too!

[@dachagsgo8176]

You have my dream truck! I have a 03 tRD but not 4 x 4 only rear locker

[@justinwells6795]

Wish Toyota would just offer a SR crew cab long bed v6 with the 6 speed manual but give you the suspension and elocker from the trd. I could care less about having all the tech options, leather etc. I like a more basic truck.

[@juanbaez4066]

I hear that I can factory order the sr5 with a manual transmission. It's not true??

[@bengonzales1182]

I think they did make SR ones with double cab and V6 options, but I have only ever seen one and it was at a body shop being repaired. I don't think they make the ones with the lower suspension and smaller wheels anymore though. I kinda want to get an X-Runner Tacoma.

[@timfrancis6774]

Love this video, but love the Sr cause it's enough for me

[@eflore7527]

This past spring I bought a 2014 certified Tacoma dbl cab tss 4x4 long bed. Love this truck! Original sticker price was $36k and today it's still worth $26k four years later! These trucks are built to last! You can't go wrong with them.

[@owenhull4032]

Excellent review concise no double talk VERY informative . Best comparison I have seen! You are very knowledgeable and know your stuff for that I thank you I so enjoyed spending the 10 min or so listening. Finally I understand the three trim levels!

[@shockadellick]

+Mike C the SR was best choice for me. 1. i don't like the soft glamorous stock aluminum rims. Steel rims look better. 2. Don't like chrome grill trimming 3. Total black outed grill work best for me 4. lane departure, cruise control, ect, and traction control come standard on all 2018 SR models 5. I don't want a video game full of electronics, if I did i wouldn't purchase a truck 6. The best way to buy would be form the lowest SR or the highest TRD pro 7. The SR5 purchase is butt raping at its finest

[@Mike-4547]

Always enjoy your videos straight to the point and this is the first time I disagree and it’s about the price and I shouldn’t say disagree because it depends on the dealership. Here in Tampa FL I purchased my 2023 Tacoma and it just came off the Truck and bought it as is. Tacoma SR5 double cab 0:05 , v6 4x4, upgraded radio, BSM, parking sensors, Navigation, Metallic gray don’t know type of rims but nice dark grey 245/75R/16 tires, dual climate. Sticker was $49.920 this is no joke walked out $44.640 total I mean everything family friend was the salesman. He told me couldn’t do anything for a TRD or TRD pro and it was I believe not sure $55 or 57 .

[@NoNamechanmel]

You have no idea how much your video helps, I have always wondered whats the difference. Along what is the sr5.

[@jonathanjones6970]

I bought a 2018 TRD off-road just like the one listed. The dealership lowered the cost to match the sr5 to make the sale, so I figured why not. Will I be rock crawling and doing major off road with the truck? Probably not, but I did have the truck in a river wash a couple days ago and did in fact use the crawl control to get me out of the sand bed. Worked like a charm. Can’t really go wrong with either one, but I would have been stuck in an area not accessible by tow trucks or normal people in general without it.

[@oscarortiz1114]

Jonathan Jones where you got that deal of a price? Good luck an thx.

[@docrichardson7034]

I have a 2008 SR5 and I love it, the only thing I really wanted was the locker, but you can buy them.

[@JimmyMakingitwork]

I did some haggling and waited until the 2019’s were literally about to roll in. Adding up to huge discounts and a TRD OffRoad 4x4 for $35k. Of course, I might have gotten a deal on a SR5 as well, if they had a 4x4 in stock. Not looking back, no regerts.

[@valentinolnunez]

Nice! What time of year was it?

[@vicwiseman6038]

What really sets apart the Sport is NOT the hood scoop but rather the availability of the long bed vs short bed. Why do people focus so much on cosmetics and ignore the key differences?

[@Insanemarine247]

The hood scoop is just cosmetic. It's not actually a functioning hood scoop. It's just appearances

[@brennacampbell387]

Since May 2018, I brought SR5, 4x4, 2.7, and access cab. I think it is vaule for this trim SR or SR5 , because it possible be save money so, you can buy custom headlight, etc. For your own truck. I am not fan for off road as TRD, I just normal drive on city/highway. I know this entune audio is weakest, but I added garmin gps or other radio is best than entune audio. It just all I said.

[@benholden4585]

I just bought the SR5 and this video helped confirm my decision. I do like the idea of having the off road capability of the TRD off road, but I'm not doing any off-roading , yet. I couldn't justify the off-road package because the Tacoma is mostly a daily driver for me.

[@BigAlWillis]

Yeah and they basically have the same motor so you're getting the same truck just a few differences

[@sholland42]

The SR5 is plenty capable off road, you get the TRD if you are into climbing rocks.

[@scotthendricks7513]

Nice! Loved the comparison between the 3 & the differences of the trucks. I learned something new keep up the good work & HAPPY NEW YEAR 2 U!

[@tompaull3214]

Thanks. This is the best comparison I've seen for the Tacomas!

[@justinsimpson2335]

I got the 2018 off road trim a couple months ago after considering all 3 options carefully (I knew I didn't want Limited or Pro).I have very little off road experience myself, but I'm glad it has the extra equipment. Main difference is the rear diff locker and more off road oriented tires and suspension. I have already used the diff locker on a camping trip where it was very helpful. One friend I was with has a lot of off road experience and suggested I use it. I'm glad I have it when I need it, plus I prefer the stiffer ride compared to the sr5 since I previously drove a WRX. Very happy with my choice. And price increase wasn't an issue, especially since I went through Costco and saved over $3k.

[@enbuscadeuntrofeo4259]

Great video helped me out alot for I'm on the market to get me a new tacoma thanks buddy👍

[@davidspade7654]

I picked sr5 4x4 over Trd I looked into what I would be replacing if I had bought Trd wasn’t worth it sr5 than go and upgrade what u feel if best.

[@rockeye]

I’m happy with my 2020 SR5 V6 2WD double cab. It’s perfect for daily driving in South Carolina and this COVID era. There are still people driving lifted and TRD Pros around that don’t actually off road at all. College bro’s, insecure men, and uneducated young soldiers from Fort Jackson driving fully loaded - lifted trucks is both ridiculous and hilarious. I guess it’s something about being part of something? “Let me buy a Tacoma, get it lifted, rant on Tacoma World, and mod the hell out my truck. We’re bro’s now!”

[@thesqaanalyst]

Both have too small of an interior, I went with a Tundra to haul my boat?, nope. Trailer? Nope. To haul my laptop backpack. Never looked back. 👍🏼

[@cars654]

They are made for teeny tiny Asian's not Americans !

[@SovietUnion100]

@@cars654 False

[@cars654]

@@SovietUnion100 Wahts up False ! I didn't know you could afford a Toyota in the Soviet Union. Please tell Putey to release the piss video of Trumpenstein ! Whats the name of that car company over their is it Yuda or Yoda. I hear all of you commies over there run on Vodka bottoms up COMRADE ! You don't know SKODA ! Fill in the blanks what SKODA means in the U.S.

[@PureBlood777]

I have a 2017 Tacoma TRD off-road I love it. it has had zero problems

[@conracewhatever5224]

I just want SR V6 4x4 that simple

[@Montesmike15]

Same a 4x4 sr5 is thae same price of a trd off road. 2wd lmao

[@MM-rs6tk]

I just got my SR V6 4x4! You can’t go wrong

[@beginningmysilverstackinga4717]

I have owned a 2016 SR5 and just bought a 2018 Offroad both are very nice vehicles but I do really enjoy my Offroad. much better ride quality just a better driving Truck.

[@adamUDavies]

Very good comparison , much better than the last video , where the salesman didn't know the trucks. I'm still up in the air of which truck I want , but your comparison was a big help. Thanks for your video !

[@uncletony6210]

So I got the SR5 V4 for 27k, installed the TRD Grill ($250), upgraded to 265/75/16s ($550 with trade-in value), and removed the stupid looking air dam (free). Now I have an SR5 V4 that looks like a TRD Pro, and it cost me 800 bucks.

[@Doc1855]

I Love my 23 TRD Off Road, double cab, 6’ bed with the premium and technology pkgs.

[@tacosan9256]

1500 to 2000 diff in price? Really, I don’t think so, try 4-6 thousand- got my SR5 4x4 and modded myself- 3in lift 33”BFGs/bilstein 6112 and 5160 tear and upgraded rims- it’s a better off-road handling and look than the the 39k TRD off-road, I saved 2000 making my truck look and off-road better than factory- crawl control is for beginners- you can add a diff lock and go all day with the best of them on trail/crawling- save some $$$, customize, and enjoy your new taco

[@DrivenCompanion]

I agree there is a lot to be said for going with the SR5 if you're doing a lift. Cost wise it truly is about a $1500-2000 difference between a comparable SR5 and TRD.

[@splatmacpuffin]

At my dealer to upgrade to a sport or off road was a much bigger jump than $1500-2000, Lol. I went with an SR5 and spent $3000 on tires, custom built grill, high end tonneau cover and beefier side step bars.

[@frankcoleman9005]

It really is much bigger than a $1500-2000 jump, especially the ones you were showing. Maybe if it was a bare bones offroad. The upgraded jbl system is what was in THAT offroad plus there's that moonroof and upgraded interior that is basically the pro interior without the red stitching and embroidered headrests. That sand offroad MSRP as it sits will be over $41K if it has the tonneau cover as a 4dr short bed. With that said, fair comparison on some features. What I take away from this is...... Buy the off road :)

[@kimsiewers]

Someday I hope to follow the Taco San plan I'm going to replace my 98 Tacoma which still runs like a champ, 255,000 miles, no problems.

[@PureBlood777]

I paid 37,600 for my 2017 Tacoma TRD off road tow package.

[@DanielWraps]

Well, I’m on day 6 of 7 driving from Idaho to Washington DC. I’ve got the TRD off-road and before the trip I got the TSB done for the transmission gear hunt issue. Mine is a 2018 automatic. I’ve seen every possible weather scenario so far. 65 mph winds in Wyoming pulling a 5’ by 8’ UHaul with 1500 lbs total and its averaged 13mpg towing across the country. Today I experienced freezing rain and slick roads in Indiana and Ohio. I don’t care what anyone has to say about the 3rd Gen. it’s a workhorse and it’s quite capable. the TRD off-road Goodyear Wrangler tires rarely lost control in 2WD and never did in 4 High.

[@DrivenCompanion]

So what do you think about the TSB?

[@DanielWraps]

Mike C I think it’s made a big difference. I think that this transmission in the 3rd Gen is different and needs some extra time to break it in. I just arrived to DC and my Dad had nothing but good things to say through Iowa and Pennsylvania where it’s especially “hill-y.” We had no gear hunting issues. I think it takes a little bit of time and driving after the TSB has been done but I just drove 2400 miles across the country so that may have had something to do with that “adjustment” period if such a thing is needed. I do believe that the on board computers on new vehicles can make changes to the vehicle based on the way an individual drives. I’m easier on my Tacoma than probably most people. My transmission was definitely put to the ultimate test over the last 7 days though. It delivered on a level I would expect from a Toyota, let alone a Tacoma.

[@samb8996]

Your video helped me a lot - thanks!

[@TexasScout]

I needed a “commuter” truck for a 100+ mile daily commute for work. I tried the Tacoma and was totally put off by the “buckboard “ ride. I went with the Nissan Frontier CC because it road like a car, handled like a car, but I could haul stuff. It was also cheaper. I have now had it 7 years and 242,000 miles with NO major problems.

[@DrivenCompanion]

35K miles a year. You must have a long commute!

[@TexasScout]

Mike C 105 miles a day, 5 days a week.

[@angiereed4552]

What year??

[@jimmyreese5883]

TRD Off-road: only one with a rear locking diff. Kinda big deal

[@ericochoa4271]

Jimmy Reese and the trd pro

[@a.l.2669]

That's not necessarily true because even though it's not standard the SR5's can come the factory with the TRD package.

[@heljos2487]

You can get a better rear and front locking diff installed after market for cheaper than the upsale of the OR model.

[@mbb-pr4zc]

Don’t Tacoma‘s have automatic locking rear diff like a Chevrolet?

[@a.l.2669]

No, they are switch activated.

[@scottfurlong5475]

I only wanted the SR5 but the small step up to the TRD sport is worth it to me just to have the upgraded radio, push button start, power sliding rear window, anti theft system and automatic climate control. I know I don't need any of this stuff but I've gotten used to it and feel like I would want it in my next truck. It's a shame that they discontinued the blazing be and inferno paint colors.

[@galacticom]

I bought the Tacoma OffRoad 2018 yesterday... love it. Traded in my 2016 unlimited...Finance payments were the same, and zero down... I also got the Toyota 100,000 mile hassle free maintenance package, as the synthetic oil is expensive... I just drive it into the dealership, and they change all my fluids every 5K miles... would not buy the vehicle w/o that package...

[@Owennevulis]

This video is the definitive answer to all my questions about the trim levels! Great video man, thanks for all the great points you made. Now I just have to narrow my personal choice between the TRD Sport and the TRD off road.

[@DrivenCompanion]

Basically comes down to offroad capability vs hood scoop. Good luck!

[@kylejames538]

Mike C wheels and painted/ black fender flares also make a pretty big difference in overall appearance imo. Moreso than just the hood scoop. Great vid btw

[@williampabon6432]

Just got the Sr5 and love it. Get 25 mpg avg at 64, 26.4 avg at 57. I drive in the city mostly so that works for me. Gonna add better looking tires, not gonna lifted, it's high enough for me. I dont really off road. Great review 👍

[@marcelguarachi]

William Pabon is yours the v6? i just got one a few days ago and i believe i will love it, especially if it gets the good gas mileage. 25 mpg sounds great. so many comments about different models i think the sr5 will be fine

[@williampabon6432]

@@marcelguarachi yes it is the v6. Had it for one month now, 5690 miles on it. Yeah I drive a lot that is why I sold my v8. Well plus it was 12 years old lol. Man I love this Tacoma, smooth riding, excellent mpg and just looks good. I live in south Texas no mountains here or ice so dont need the 4x4, plus I dont go offroad so this is the primary reason I went with the sr5. I am in the freight transportation business so I need the tacoma to take tires and parts for my big rigs. But I needed a smooth vehicle since I am also a freight broker so I go travel to shippers a lot and this pickup has proven itself for me. Goodluck with yours and hope you enjoy it as much as iam.

[@midninteranger4315]

I LOVE MY TOCO SR5, IT WORKS JUST AS GOOD AS THOSE OTHERS AND I DIDN'T PAY THROUGH THE NOSE 4 IT

[@BThack]

midninte ranger ditto

[@Michael_Dolences.]

Where exactly was "buying new" ever mentioned?

[@scottl8416]

SC EM with a Tacoma it makes sense to buy new, especially if they have good incentives.

[@Aaarellano5]

brandon thacker only real pimps buy new

[@Icy-E]

@SC EM I use think the same. I tired buying a used tocoma and it's the same price as a new one.

[@tacomaken15]

I have the SR5. Last gen 2 body year in 2015. Truck came loaded. Thanks for the comparisons. No matter what one decides to buy there a very overpriced truck. But very reliable in the long run if taken care of.

[@foulbred]

The SR5 has everything I want and need. I could not justify spending the extra money for a TRD other that bragging rights.

[@phobos2k2]

"Fully touch" screen is a downgrade to me. I much prefer the tactile response of knobs and buttons while driving.

[@austincote3376]

Awesome in-depth review, loved this video

[@millieatr]

Some folks like me just wanna go to work and back in a snow storm , so any one of the 3 is fine.. I have a 2012 sr5

[@damnyankeerider5959]

I bought the TRD as an upgrade from my SR 4 cyl. Mostly for the 278 hp V6 and the built in navigation which the SR5 only has with an app off your phone.

[@tomthorn2887]

They are now making SR5's up to $35,000. The reason they are doing this is to let someone like me get a nice Tacoma without having to get the push button start. I HATE THOSE! ha So, now you can get an SR5 that is loaded but does not have that darn push button start.

[@adampruitt9211]

Yeah I Agree I hate the Push button

[@phoslurperr]

How is it possible to hate push button start? Never have to get key out of pocket to lock/unlock and start. Best thing since government cheese.

[@leudwigc6000]

Good job! You answered all of my questions.

[@Gamingandoutdooradventures]

Personally I like the Sr model.

[@無定飛環]

Yes, totally agree

[@chrismak4859]

No lockers, and no crawl control, other than that you’ll save money and still have a solid and capable 4wd truck. You can always upgrade the shocks if you’re worried about the lack of Bilsteins too.

[@vira8880]

Dude this video rocks and thx for breaking down the difference

[@randyr6610]

I looked and drove all the 2017 TRD Toyota’s I didn’t have the use of the TRD so I ended up with the SR5 it works for me I ended up with the 4x4 v6 . I had this truck for almost two years and never put it in four wheel drive yet, but glad I got it. But good video showing all the difference in the models no one got that detailed, l tell people just get what works for your needs.

[@johnnytorres277]

If you check your owners manual its actually really bad to not ever use 4wd. The owners manual actually recommends you use it once a month to lube the system.

[@nopro5433]

Best well explained Iv found thanks Man! Looking at a TRD Off Road .2018

[@dougdekuiper3194]

What is cool with having the hood scoop is you can put a light bar in it.

[@numberonefamilyman]

I agree, off road is most bang for your buck.

[@TH-qr9ml]

I still prefer the sr5 grill look.

[@PHILLIPS8822]

T H I prefer the TRD Pro grill

[@justinwells6795]

Either sr5 or pro definitely

[@Th3unknownuser111]

Sr5. I only got the TRD because my company gives all project managers a truck incentive. So the added cost I don't see in my monthly payments. I have my 08 that is an Sr5 and my 18 is a sport 4x4. Both have the same mods and they are equally capable. I don't need crawl control or any of that extra junk. Just a locker which I added myself. Look at any KZbin channel that does serious overlanding especially those channels from Australia and not one vehicle has that shitty crawl control or multi terrain select. You don't need any of that to go wheeling. Rear locker a lift and good tires, of course some armor and recovery gear and you're set.

[@Krew808]

Beastly Man why didn’t you just get the off road? It comes with lockers, skid plate and bigger brake booster.

[@phoslurperr]

Sounds right to me. Where did you get your locker? I have a 13 set myself would like to add a locker

[@stephenspinak2162]

Mike I have a question by your knowledge or opinion I was going to buy a 2012 TRD sport 4x4 but had almost 78,000 miles so I was skittish about getting an 8 yrs old vehicle even though it was in exceptional shape then the salesman introduced me to a 2016 sr5 only with the xp package 4x2 with under 41,000 miles one owner no issues......well I'm I'm originally from an area where 4x4 is needed living in the northeast but now living in SC......Am I getting the equivalent access with this model going over off road trails ( not abusive off road trips ,I wouldn't do that with the 4x4 ) but with the tra traction control, 17in rim's and rugged I believe 265/65/17. I'm very happy with with this truck and its the same red in your video. Comparison vs the TRD sport 4x4 was this a vehicle that would hold me back for light to mid off road paths ...I guess what I mean did I get a trim that's close in comparison? Ty and waiting for your response please be honest with your answer Ty again Stephen Spinak

[@PHILLIPS8822]

Wrong a lot of Tacoma owners like myself are swiping the chrome grill for the Black TRD Pro grill

[@thesqaanalyst]

DARRYL PHILLIPS as i did with my Quicksand Tundra 4x4 TRD Off-road.

[@JesseRizo]

DARRYL PHILLIPS exactly

[@LAGTONE]

He does. The trd sport is the best looking truck with the current grille. I can understand why they traded the chrome for all black but this is the '18 he's talking about. IMO, the "TRD Pro grill" is tacky on your standard trim model. I mean, you flipping burgers on it or something? lol

[@blcdad]

Anyone know how much the black TRD Pro grill costs? Is it only available from Toyota?

[@JesseRizo]

blcdad I saw it on eBay for 169 but that’s eBay it looks and says original but u never know lol

[@BangBang-hk4rg]

I went with the SR because I don’t offroad and I don’t need all the bells and whistles. I just wanted a solid reliable truck.

[@onefan2461]

I got a 2017 Tacoma SR5 for 34k out the door with Costco’s auto program. I love this truck!!

[@pdg61met]

So I guess I should feel like I won the lottery being that I got a price of 30700 on a TRD Sport 2018, I think you got hosed. The MSRP on my trd pro was 34000

[@tinybubbles3724]

Just for fun, I bought my 2007 dbl cab 4x4 v6 short bed trd offroad for 26,727 + tax/title/license. I wish my wages matched the price bump.

[@onefan2461]

I’m sure you still have your Tacoma? How’s it been treating you?

[@tinybubbles3724]

Electrically/Mechanically it has been reliable/ tough, It had drive line vibration issues from the factory that they finally resolved with new drive shaft U-joints a few months ago. The rocker panels are rotted out. It's ok I guess. Personally I should have bought a ridgeline. I would have a better opinion of toyota if It had not vibrated like an orbital sander at freeway speeds for the last 10 years.

[@sasquatchhunter86]

My wheels are pretty nice on my 2018 SR5 4x4. I like them better than the TRD off road they look like aftermarket rims. Wheels are pretty wimpy but for $800 I can fix that. All the TRD black molding stuff I can buy directly from Toyota and install it myself. Save myself a ton of money that way as well.

[@maytimeneses7782]

I purchased my Toyota SR5 AC for 27k out the door., I put 3500$ into it and looks better then any of the TRD’s models. Only thing my truck is missing is the nice Scoop hood and I’m going to upgrade that soon.

[@BThack]

Great breakdown for a first time Tacoma buyer! Wish you could've covered interiors and hitch/towing differences. In my area the TRDs are all about 5 grand more though.

[@DrivenCompanion]

The TRDs are probably heavily optioned. Could be hard to find a base TRD in some markets

[@socaldep2280]

The TRD has an improved 4x4 system as well as locking rear diff.

[@bartamarine]

Only thing I would add is the about the SPORT... I know you said you didn’t have access to the cab, but that would put the sport ahead as well for daily drivers, automatic back window vs the other 2, leather seats, upgraded to interior with all black (head lining), and sun roof! (Atleast mine)

[@DanielWraps]

Blazing blue pearl is the best color! Mine is outfitted with the black honeycomb grill, black hood rock guard, hard mud guards and hard tri-fold tonneau cover. Since Boise State is my favorite college football team, I’ve decided to go with the BDTrim.com Orange 3D domed tailgate and glovebox letter inserts to go with the Blue and Orange theme. Tacoma’s are so fun to customize.

[@MichaelWilliams-qk9rm]

Thx. Ive been looking at the off road and ur video just confirmed what i should get.

[@DrivenCompanion]

Glad I could help!

[@jasonroberts9788]

The TRD Off Road or Pro are the best bang for the $$$, but if MOST of us are honest with ourselves, we're almost never gonna need the capabilities of those two trim levels. I got the TRD Sport and love it!

[@DrivenCompanion]

I went with the capability and value of the OR but every time I see a hood scoop I question whether I really needed that added capability :-)

[@OregonDuckz]

Hey Mike I noticed some new SR5 18s have the upgraded screen but not all. I ended up with an SR5 4x4. Definitely took the front air dam off, looks way better.

[@gmpick9793]

Matt S. I just got a 2018 and thought about taking off the front air dam did it affect anything when you did so?

[@OregonDuckz]

GM pick Hey bud I did not see any difference at all but it definitely looks way better. Super easy to remove. I put the hardware in a baggy and taped it to the back of the air dam just in case I want it later for some reason.

[@gmpick9793]

Matt S. Thanks for the reply

[@DubstepTH]

Perfect video. Commenting just to help with the KZbin algorithm

[@BurtBowers]

I bought recently the 2017 trd offroad not the 4x4 but does have the lock differential nice truck it is I was leaning towards 2018 model then I noticed had the black box camera mounted to the right side of rearview mirror didnt care for that I may one day consider to get a 4x4 model but for now happy with the regular trd👍

[@locksbog4270]

Off road best bang for buck for sure, you get a way more capable truck for pennies more...... sport is for mall crawling

[@matthewmartinez716]

Great review! Thank you for the simple clarification.

[@DrivenCompanion]

Glad it was helpful!

[@tempo1889]

All of them beat the Nissan Frontier which is what I was originally looking at because I didn't think I could afford a Tacoma. 2 months later I now have a Tacoma sport and I am so glad I did not go with the Frontier.

[@jakepureblood7571]

You will be money ahead to put your own lockers in. I had a TRD and the computer strategy will not let you do a lot. You will have to test drive one and ask a lot of questions.

[@shawnwright1708]

Really really good video explaining the differences. Thank You!!

[@jessacoen6190]

I love my SR. I’m so poor that I get food from the government delivered to my door. My new BMW m4 is a perfect entry level government vehicle to help me pick pf the food that I need when delivery of my food is not available.

[@tracesawyer680]

Awesome video. Thanks my man

[@rafaeldiazus]

Thanks for your time in explaining the differences. I have the first generation of the TRD (2005), it has served me very well (255K) miles and I am now looking to purchase another one. Question, what has been the long term fix on the squeeking noise on the rear leafs? I have used silicone spray and that provides relief for at least several months.

[@DrivenCompanion]

For the time being the issue has disappeared. Crossing my fingers that it doesn't come back

[@forgedsteelwrench9249]

Just buy the showroom Tacoma n put all your money/income towards TOYOTA. We need for these guys to make everything. Can you imagine a toaster made by TOYOTA, that thing will last forever just like their vehicles.

[@pariscarta4591]

I just bought a 2016 Sr5 red interior in CA.. best purchase I feel

[@Michaeljohnson-gr2cu]

I don’t know he left the SR model out the only difference the sr has is the interior not black and no fog lights smh I bought Toytec Baja style fog light kit for 115 bucks TRD Pro grille for 100 bucks and Toytec 2.5 lift kit that allow me to adjust to 3 inch lift for 1700 because I add on leaf spring and control arm then wheel and tire for 1200 and I’m Using 33 on 17inch wheel I paid 28k out the door for my sr model even with the upgrade I bought still came out cheaper then the sr5 model and look way better and has better set up then any trd the only thing is I have grey seat but just waiting around till I find a wreck TRD Pro and get the seat out of it

[@jonaskey]

Michael johnson can u get the sr in 4x4?

[@IrishWariorKing]

Well done video yeeh. Keep up the class videos my friend ☘👑🖒

[@dominicoconner1973]

Ask the dealer what the exact differences are and 90% of them will give you some B.S. to just try and sell you the more expensive truck. When my dad got his Tundra we got the to print out a side by side difference of the TRD vs SR5 & the sales guy was surprised at how close they were. It gives you some leverage. My dad got the SR5 for cheaper and had tow mirror/tonneau cover/side step bars added at no extra cost.

[@morganbeumee3468]

Good review dude! Thanks.

[@TRose-hc9pv]

Excellent explanation. Thank you!

[@azuldelpino3309]

SR5 the best...and yes, have rear LSD diferential.. the 4x4 is the same to another trd. Expept de crow control.. that is for some dont like drive him selve.. SR5 is for my the best..

[@RM80AR]

AZUL del pino does the sr5 2wd come with rear locker?

[@Millirawk]

Neither. It's part of the trd off road.

[@gabesvidz]

The hood scoop looks cool but it takes away some field of view of the road as you are driving which I found out in a test drive of the Sport model

[@sheldonm3535]

The scoop is fake. Not functional

[@bretthoffman2128]

Too bad they won't let you work there, but your still building product knowledge in this video, it's really all in what you want

[@cavalierstoofa]

Hey Mike, I have enjoyed your videos! I was wanting to know which year/trim double cab Tacoma that I should buy with a 25 grand budget and the lowest mileage that I can get? Thanks for the advice!

[@DrivenCompanion]

Hi Caleb, thanks for the positive feedback. Do you need to carry rear passengers and do you plan on any off-roading?

[@cavalierstoofa]

I do need to carry rear passengers and I wanted to know if I can drive on dirt roads with a 2 Wheel Drive? If not, I would prefer 4 Wheel Drive.

[@milesj.943]

"I can't really suggest a base model [because trucks need creature comforts and should be comfortable above all else]" FTFY Give me a break. Get what you can afford, if you think you need shiny wheels go for it.

[@C.Lopez-SWFL-Off-Road-Trucks]

I buy a Tacoma Off Road by 31K is 4x4 2017 with 15,000miles you think was a good purchase? When 2020 are costing 41k

[@DrivenCompanion]

Yeah, sounds like a pretty good deal.

[@karaokekid7189]

Thumbs up, but I really wish you would have included the Pro model as well.

[@Daniel-Duarte]

I shopped aggressively between dealers, both local and far, and for 2018’s I found the price difference between the SR5 and the TRD OR was like 4500 bucks... not worth it.