The 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Xtracab is a significant upgrade in the mid-size pickup truck market, boasting impressive off-road capabilities and a refined design. This in-depth review will explore its key features, performance, and overall value, helping you determine if it's the right truck for you.
Power and Performance Under the Hood
The heart of the 2024 Tacoma TRD Pro Xtracab beats with a powerful 3.5L V6 engine, delivering a robust 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a responsive six-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth shifts both on and off the road. While fuel economy isn't its strongest suit, the power output makes up for it when tackling demanding terrain. Expect around 19 MPG combined, a figure that's typical for trucks in this class and power range. The engine's responsiveness is crucial for navigating challenging off-road obstacles requiring quick bursts of acceleration and power.
Off-Road Prowess: TRD Pro Capabilities
The "TRD Pro" designation isn't just a badge; it signifies a serious commitment to off-road performance. The 2024 model features several key upgrades:
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FOX Internal Bypass Shocks: These high-performance shocks provide superior damping and control, ensuring a smoother ride over rough terrain and minimizing body roll. They are a significant upgrade over standard shocks and contribute greatly to the TRD Pro's off-road capabilities. Independent testing has shown a marked improvement in both ride comfort and control compared to non-TRD Pro models.
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Increased Ground Clearance: The TRD Pro boasts a higher ground clearance compared to standard Tacomas, making it easier to traverse obstacles and avoid scraping the undercarriage. This is crucial for navigating rocky trails and uneven surfaces.
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TRD-Tuned Suspension: The suspension system is specifically tuned for off-road performance, providing better articulation and handling on uneven terrain. This precise tuning allows the wheels to maintain better contact with the ground, enhancing traction and stability.
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Electronic Locking Rear Differential: This feature enhances traction by sending power to the wheel with the most grip, invaluable when navigating slippery or uneven surfaces. This is a significant advantage in low-traction situations like mud, snow, or loose sand.
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Aggressive Approach Angles: The TRD Pro features optimized approach and departure angles, allowing for a greater range of motion when tackling steep inclines and declines.
Case Study: Moab Trail Run
Independent testing conducted on the Moab, Utah trails, showed the 2024 Tacoma TRD Pro Xtracab's exceptional performance. It easily navigated challenging rocky sections and maintained stability on steep inclines, demonstrating the effectiveness of its FOX shocks and TRD-tuned suspension. The electronic locking rear differential proved indispensable in several low-traction situations.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside, the 2024 Tacoma TRD Pro Xtracab offers a comfortable and functional cabin. While not luxurious, the interior prioritizes durability and practicality. Key features include:
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Comfortable Seating: The seats provide adequate support and are durable enough to withstand the rigors of off-road driving.
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Infotainment System: The infotainment system, while not cutting-edge, provides essential features like smartphone integration and navigation.
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Practical Storage: The Xtracab configuration offers extra passenger space and storage solutions in the rear.
Exterior Design and Styling
The TRD Pro's exterior design is both aggressive and functional. Key styling elements include:
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Unique Grille: A distinctive TRD Pro grille sets it apart from other Tacoma models.
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Black Exterior Accents: Black accents, including the wheels and badging, contribute to a more rugged aesthetic.
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LED Lighting: Bright LED lighting enhances visibility both on and off-road.
Price and Value
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Xtracab commands a premium price compared to standard Tacoma models. However, the added off-road capabilities and performance justify the higher cost for serious off-road enthusiasts. The long-term reliability and resale value of Toyota vehicles should also be considered.
Conclusion: Is the 2024 Tacoma TRD Pro Right for You?
The 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Xtracab is an excellent choice for off-road enthusiasts who demand rugged performance and reliability. Its combination of power, off-road capabilities, and practical features makes it a compelling option in the competitive mid-size truck market. However, prospective buyers should consider the higher price point and slightly lower fuel economy compared to less-equipped models. If you prioritize off-road performance and dependability, the 2024 Tacoma TRD Pro is a worthy investment.