The TRD Sport, the most recent Tacoma trim, comes in third, followed by the SR5 as the second-tier edition. The beds on Access models are 73.7 inches long, while the beds on double cab versions can be either 60.5 inches long or long. These cabins are more soundproof than ever, as Edmunds has pointed out. Utilizing the bed is made simpler by a new lift/drop assist tailgate. A bed rail system, movable tie-downs, and a bedliner are included with the SR5. The cab includes a tilt-telescopic steering wheel, folding back seats, and a sliding rear glass. You won’t find a competitor’s product with a standard GoPro windshield mount.
Compared to the SR5’s chrome accents, the TRD Sport has a different appearance. It has larger wheels, a hood scoop, and distinctive ornamentation. Adding a 120-volt power outlet to the bed. TRD upholstery and design elements decorate the interior. Keyless entry and push-button start are features of the automatic edition. Smartphone users’ lives are made simpler with a wireless phone charger. Customers can choose the dual-zone climate control and heated front seats.
In This Article...
What does the Toyota Tacoma’s SR5 designation mean?
The SR5 was the top trim level on numerous Toyotas in the 1980s. When a truck had a five-speed manual transmission, it was considered a luxury. SR stood for Sport Rally, and SR5 was the Sport Rally Five Speed. However, that was back when Toyota’s compact pickup was simply known as the Toyota Pickup. Tacoma didn’t become popular until 1995. What does a Tacoma’s SR package entail? What makes SR and SR5 different from one another?
SR5 or TRD, which is superior?
The Toyota Tacoma offers a multitude of model options, like many other pickup trucks on the market, to ensure that there is a truck to suit everyone’s demands. The TRD Off-road and the SR5 are two well-liked variants. The key distinctions between the SR5 and the TRD Off-road may be of interest to you if you intend to buy or trade in your Toyota Tacoma. We looked at both models to find the solution for you.
It is simple to compare the Toyota SR5 and the Toyota TRD Off-road for possible purchases because of their many similarities. There are, however, a few distinctions as well. The following are the primary distinctions between the SR5 and the TRD Off-road:
- Features: The TRD provides features that the SR5 does not.
- The TRD is broader and has more inside room, although the SR5 has a longer bed.
- Weight and carrying capacity: The TRD can carry more weight, but the SR5 can tow more weight.
- There is one package option available for the SR5. The TRD has four different packages.
- The TRD is more expensive than the SR5.
Before you choose which model is best for you, let’s look at each of these variations in more detail and discuss how they impact the driving experience. Let’s get started without further ado!
What makes the Toyota Tacoma SR5 different?
The price is where the SR5 and TRD Off-Road diverge the most. The beginning price of the TRD is $37,855, while the SR5’s is $28,490.
A 2.7-liter, four-cylinder engine with 159 horsepower powers the SR5. However, the large six-cylinder engine with 278 horsepower is standard on the TRD Off-Road. However, the SR5 is also available with a V6. However, a variety of unique colors are available for the TRDs to be ordered. The SR5 or TRD maintain their worth well over time.
The Off-Road stays true to its name with a four-wheel-drive system that incorporates an electronically-controlled transfer case, while the SR5 comes standard as a two-wheel-drive vehicle. The approach and departure angles are larger and the Off-Road sports modified bumpers in addition to Bilstein shocks. The Off-Road has the option of including Crawl Control, which works like magic to free trucks trapped in the mud. But the sophisticated Crawl Control cannot be selected with the four-wheel-drive SR5.
The Engine and Performance
The SR’s base 2.7-liter inline four-cylinder engine produces 159 horsepower. With its optional 278-horsepower 2.7-liter inline V-six engine, the SR5 offers more power and improved towing capability.
The Interior and Technology
The interior of the SR is simple, with manual windows and locks. The Entune infotainment system is also present in the SR.
The Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) system of driving aids, which includes adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, is standard on the SR.
The SR is also available with the TRD Sport package, which adds a sport-tuned suspension, Bilstein shocks, and LED headlights.
LED daytime running lights, automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automated emergency braking are all standard on the SR and SR5.
Fog lights and a sunroof are not standard on the SR trim level, but they are available as part of an optional package.
The Drivetrain
The SR5 is offered with either a four- or six-cylinder engine, while the SR is only offered with a four-cylinder engine. Both grades come in two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations.
The SR5 is it a 4WD?
For the 2020 Toyota 4Runner, there are two distinct four-wheel drive (4WD) systems available. In order to maintain traction on the ground, the SR5 4WD and TRD Off-Road trims use part-time 4WD with Active Traction Control (A-TRAC). The Limited trim level also offers a full-time 4WD system as an alternative. Both A-TRAC and a Torsen limited-slip center differential with a locking function are available with this drivetrain.
Wherever you go, you could run against different difficulties. This may involve a variety of situations, such as muddy, sandy, or rocky pathways. With Multi-terrain Select, you may select from four drive modes to assist you on your journey and ensure that your 4Runner responds as needed dependent on the terrain. So that you can concentrate on where you are steering, Crawl Control (CRAWL) controls your throttle utilizing five low-speed levels in the background. Taking a hilly route up or down? Every 2020 Toyota 4Runner comes standard with Hill Start Assist Control, which stops rollback. When traveling down a steep or slippery slope, Downhill Assist Control is available to keep you down at a reasonable pace.
Which Tacoma has the best ride quality?
Prior to discussing the 2022 Toyota Tacoma, let’s take a look at the problems with earlier models. The ride quality of the 2020 Tacoma has reportedly improved thanks to upgrades, according to Edmunds.
Wind noise in the cabin was lessened by the use of side windows with thicker cut-glass. However, rivals like the Honda Ridgeline and Chevrolet Colorado still have an advantage. Compared to the Tacoma, they ride more comfortably.
According to Car and Driver, the Toyota Tacoma Limited features a quieter and more comfortable ride than the off-road models. The TRD Pro sacrifices pavement comfort in favor of a raised suspension, powerful shock absorbers, and aggressive tires.
Additionally, according to U.S. News, the 2020 Toyota Tacoma has a rougher ride than its competitors. Some drivers found it unpleasant in most driving scenarios and it can be forceful over bumps. You see what I mean? It’s a bumpy ride.
SR5 has off-road capabilities.
“I suppose it all depends on what you plan to do! TRD Off Road features a lot more cool, tech-related items, but no sunglasses holder. Therefore, if you don’t like off-roading, that’s just kind of sitting there. An SR5 4×4 can be modified to perform well both on and off trail. So, it truly comes down to wallet size and personal preference. Personally, I’d purchase the TRD Pro.
When you do not urgently want the off-roading capabilities that come standard on TRD Off-Road, a Toyota Tacoma SR5 can be the best option. You can still maintain traction in the rain or on snowy days with an SR5 Tacoma because it is available in both 4×2 and 4×4. Some might wonder why you should pay for crawl control if you don’t need it, for instance.
Going with an SR5 Tacoma could also be more affordable. The MSRP out of the factory for a 2021 Tacoma SR5 4×4 V6 double cab is $35,305. In contrast, the base price of a 2021 Tacoma TRD Off-Road with comparable specifications is $37,280. If sticking to your budget is crucial to you, starting with the roughly $2,000 you may save by selecting the proper trim level is recommended.
The 3.5-liter V6 engine found in the majority of Toyota Tacoma pickup trucks has 278 horsepower and 265 lb.-ft. of torque. There are a few 4-cylinder Tacoma grades available, including the SR and SR5 pickups (159 horsepower, 180 torque). This is one method to purchase a Toyota Tacoma vehicle for about or just under $30,000. This brings me to my third argument in favor of SR5.
Have you had to look into Tacoma trim levels? If so, what did you decide on? What other elements were or are significant to you?
The best Tacoma is…
The first Toyota Tacoma was introduced in 1995 and produced for three versions, ending in 2005. While the tough truck has never exactly been recognized for being quiet or smooth, its value has held through the years.
The 2000, 2001, 2003, and 2004 Tacomas from the first generation received the highest ratings. However, 2004 received less praise overall.
There are many models available if the second generation is of interest to you. 2005, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015 all received flawless dependability verdict ratings from MotorBiscuit.
For purchasers looking for an all-purpose vehicle that can handle tough terrain, the 2012–2015 series is ideal. These Tacomas had a significant renovation and now have a stylish interior.
This second generation is more expensive than other used trucks on the market, even with higher mileage.
A 2005 Toyota Tacoma 2WD Access Cab PreRunner with 200,000 miles was posted on Autotrader for $9,000, as were a Tacoma 4WD Double Cab with 75,000 miles and a 2015 Tacoma with the TRD package and 6,000 miles.
With a 4 out of 5 rating from Consumer Reports, the 2005 Toyota Tacoma has the greatest satisfaction rating out of the group.
Even the 2016 model of Toyota’s current generation costs between $20,000 and $32,675. But if you’d prefer a more recent design, the Toyota Tacoma from 2019 is your best alternative. The 2019 model received a 4 out of 5 rating for dependability and owner satisfaction.