The Texas Truck Rodeo, hosted by the Texas Auto Writers Association, is more than just an event — it’s an adrenaline-fueled showcase of the finest off-road machines pushing their limits on the rugged terrain of Eagle’s Canyon Raceway. Among the line-up of powerhouse trucks, the newly redesigned 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro took center stage. This is no ordinary Tacoma — it’s a turbocharged, hybrid-boosted beast designed for conquering the most challenging trails. But the question is: can it outshine its competition, such as the formidable Ford Ranger Raptor? Let’s dive in and find out.
Exterior – The Rugged & Refined Look:
The 2024 Tacoma TRD Pro sports an eye-catching “Underground” color, a shade that seems to look better the dirtier it gets. With every off-road trail conquered, the dust and grime only seem to enhance its rugged charm. The classic Toyota Heritage grille in gunmetal metallic gray proudly features the bold “TOYOTA” name, flanked by LED projector headlights and fog lamps, providing a robust and commanding front profile.
But it’s not all about looks — it’s about function. The TRD Pro’s front-end design is sculpted to allow a greater approach and departure angle, ensuring it can climb and descend steep inclines effortlessly. Beneath, TRD skid plates shield the underbody, fuel tank, and critical components, making sure that rocks and debris don’t ruin your off-roading adventure. The 18-inch wheels are made by BBS, a name synonymous with performance and durability, wrapped in 33-inch Goodyear Wrangler tires that are ready for the toughest trails.
Powertrain – A Turbocharged Hybrid Revolution:
Pop the hood, and you’ll find the heart of the TRD Pro: the I-Force Max engine. This 2.4L inline-four turbocharged engine, paired with an electric motor, cranks out a respectable 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. A first for the Tacoma, it ditches the traditional V6 for this hybrid setup — a move that pays off in performance and efficiency, with 23 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the TRD Pro is capable of towing up to 6,000 lbs, with a payload capacity of 1,175 lbs. Toyota’s approach to hybrid technology here isn’t about fuel savings alone; it’s about enhancing the truck’s performance, adding instant torque that’s especially useful for off-road maneuvering.
Interior – Comfort Meets Capability:
Step inside the cabin, and it’s clear the TRD Pro means business. Soft-touch materials with red stitching flow throughout, giving the interior a premium yet sporty feel. The TRD Pro’s 14-inch infotainment system dominates the center stack, offering a suite of off-road specific displays, including a 360° camera view to help you navigate tricky terrain. The integration of tech doesn’t just stop at cameras; the off-road information displays provide details on pitch, roll, and more — all designed to keep you in the know when the trail gets tough.
But the real game-changer? The TRD Pro-specific seats. These aren’t just about looking cool (though the camo accents and TRD Pro branding certainly help). Toyota’s taken inspiration from its Baja 1000 and Baja 500 success to design seats with shock absorbers built into the backs. This technology stabilizes the driver and passenger, reducing the jarring impacts of off-road driving, and providing a level of comfort that’s unheard of in other midsize trucks.
Driving Impressions – Taming the Terrain:
Now for the real test — how does the 2024 Tacoma TRD Pro perform when the pavement ends and the trail begins? At Eagle’s Canyon Raceway, we pushed the TRD Pro through its paces, from rocky inclines to sandy paths, and it tackled every obstacle with confidence and control.
The Fox-tuned suspension works in harmony with the TNG-F platform to absorb harsh bumps and dips, allowing for higher speeds on uneven terrain without the dreaded bone-jarring feel. It’s a reminder of Toyota’s deep roots in off-road racing, going back to the days of Ivan “The Ironman” Stewart. And thanks to the shock-absorbing seats, you feel stable, without the usual cab vibrations shaking you to the core.
The steering is responsive and precise, allowing for easy placement on narrow trails. With the added benefit of technology like crawl control and multi-terrain select modes, the TRD Pro makes even the most intimidating paths feel manageable.
Technology & Off-Road Confidence:
The TRD Pro doesn’t just rely on brute force to tackle trails; it’s got the brains to back it up. From the forward-facing camera technology that gives you a clear view of what’s directly in front of the truck to the customizable off-road settings on the infotainment display, the TRD Pro keeps you informed and in control. The ability to modify sway bar disconnects and lock the rear differential ensures that when the going gets tough, the Tacoma TRD Pro is ready to meet the challenge.
Conclusion – Tacoma vs. the Competition:
After hours on the trail, one thing is clear: the 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro is a serious off-road contender. With its hybrid turbocharged powerplant, advanced suspension, and tech-focused interior, it provides a driving experience that balances comfort, capability, and style.
So, does it have what it takes to outperform rivals like the Ford Ranger Raptor? That depends on what you’re looking for. If you value a smooth, stable ride, thoughtful design features, and a proven off-road pedigree, the TRD Pro may just be your ideal off-road companion. But the decision is yours to make — and it’s a choice any truck enthusiast would be thrilled to have.
Are you Team Tacoma TRD Pro or Team Ranger Raptor? Let us know your thoughts and off-roading experiences in the comments below!
Photo Credit: Kevin McCauley YouTube Channel
