Like many other pickup trucks on the market, the Toyota Tacoma has a variety of model options to ensure a truck for everyone's needs. Two popular models are the SR5 and the TRD Off-road. If you plan to purchase or trade-in your Toyota Tacoma, you may be wondering what the main differences are between the SR5 and the TRD Off-road. We've researched both models to get the answer for you.
There are many similarities between the Toyota SR5 and the Toyota TRD Off-road, which makes it easy to compare the two for potential purchases. However, there are a number of differences as well. The main differences between the SR5 and the TRD Off-road are:
- Features: The TRD offers features that are not available for the SR5.
- Dimensions: The SR5 has a longer bed, while the TRD is wider and has more interior space.
- Weight and capacity: The SR5 has a higher towing capacity, while the TRD has a higher payload.
- Available packages: The SR5 offers one package option. The TRD has four available packages.
- Price: The TRD costs more than the SR5.
Before you decide which model is right for you, let us take a closer look at each of these differences and how they affect the driving experience. Without further ado, let's get into it!
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Toyota Tacoma SR5 Vs. TRD: Key Differences
Features
The TRD Off-road offers features that are a step above the SR5's available features. While the SR-5 includes sliding rear glass with a privacy panel, the TRD includes power-sliding rear glass with the same privacy panel.
In addition, the SR5's day/night rearview mirror is overshadowed by the TRD's auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Availability Of Features
The TRD includes some standard features that are not even offered as an option on the SR5. For example, the TRD includes a smart-key system and rear child locks.
Potential buyers also have the option of including a multi-terrain monitor in the TRD, which is not available on the SR5.
On the other hand, the SR5 includes remote keyless entry that is not available with the TRD.
Dimensions
There are some slight size differences between the SR5 and the TRD Off-road. The TRD is slightly wider at 75.2 inches to the SR5's 74.4 inches. While this doesn't seem like a big difference, the TRD's rear seats are significantly more roomy than the SR5's rear seats.
The TRD offers three more inches of headroom, almost five more inches of hip room, eight more inches of legroom, and two more inches of shoulder room for a total of 18 more inches of space.
The length of both models are identical, but the TRD's bed is five feet long, and the SR5's bed measures six feet long. While the TRD provides more room to passengers, the SR5 offers more cargo space.
Does The TRD Off-Road Sit Higher Than The SR5?
According to Toyota, both the TRD Off-road and the SR5 sit at 70.6 inches tall.
However, many Tacoma owners feel that the TRD sits slightly higher than the SR5. Differences in tire size and the TRD's upgraded shocks and suspension system may account for the height difference.
Weight And Capacity
The TRD and the SR5 weigh the same, but their towing capacities are a bit different. The SR5 has between a 3,500-6,800 pound max towing capacity depending on the trim level, drivetrain, and bed length. SR5's payload also varies as low as 1105 pounds to as high as 1685 pounds, again depending on trim level, drivetrain, and bed length.
The TRD, on the other hand, can manage a similar payload between 1105 - 1395 pounds depending on grade (Sport, Off-road, or Pro), trim level, drivetrain, and bed length. As for towing capacity, TRD provides between 6,400-6,800 pound max towing capacity depending on grade (Sport, Off-road, or Pro), trim level, drivetrain, and bed length.
You can choose the model that best suits your needs by deciding whether you use your truck more for hauling or towing. If you primarily haul cargo, you would benefit from the SR5's slightly higher payload. If you use your truck to tow more often, the TRD's higher towing capacity options might serve you better.
Seating
You may also consider the seating capacity of each model if you use your truck to travel with family or friends. The SR5 seats four people while the TRD can seat five people.
Available Packages
In addition to the standard features that each model offers, the SR5 and the TRD have packages available that include more features based on your needs.
These packages are a cost-effective way to add more features to your vehicle without having to pay for each optional feature individually.
SR5 Appearance Package
Toyota only offers an appearance package for the SR5, which includes 16-inch dark gray alloy wheels and color-keyed overfenders. The SR5's standard wheels are 16-inch styled steel.
TRD Off-road Entertainment Packages
The premium audio and navigation package includes a three-year trial for Premium Audio and Dynamic Navigation, a one-year trial for Destination Assist, and a 10-year trial for Service Connect. It also includes Remote Connect.
TRD Off-road Safety & Performance Packages
The Technology Package offers parking sonar and Blind Spot Monitor, which also includes Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. The LED lights package includes LED headlight, daytime running lights, and fog lights.
As the name suggests, the TRD Off-road performs well when off-roading in difficult terrain. It is no wonder that an off-road package is offered to make adventuring more enjoyable and safe.
The premium off-road package includes leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, auto headlights, a moonroof, and premium JBL audio so you can ride in style. To keep you safe during off-roading, the package also includes:
- a three-year trial for Dynamic Navigation,
- a one-year trial for Remote Connect,
- a one-year trial for Destination Assist,
- and a 10-year trial for Service Connect.
If you choose to purchase the premium off-road package, it is not necessary to purchase the premium audio and navigation package.
Price
The TRD Off-road starts at $34,000, which is $6,000 dollars more than the SR5's starting price of $28,000. If you are having a hard time deciding whether the extra cost is worth it, consider what features you need for your everyday use.
The SR5 is a basic but reliable truck that has everything you need for safe and comfortable everyday driving.
The TRD Off-Road caters to those who enjoy taking their truck on extreme off-roading adventures. If you go off-roading regularly, the safety features offered by the TRD may be worth the higher cost.
Can Tacoma SR5 Go Offroad?
The Tacoma SR5 can go offroad and is a good option if you off-road casually and don't want to splurge on the TRD. However, it does not offer the extra off-roading accessories that avid adventurers look for in the TRD.
Which Toyota Tacoma Has The Smoothest Ride?
Vehicle enthusiasts seem to be divided about which Tacoma has the smoothest ride.
Some believe that the TRD Sport has the smoothest ride, while others consider the Sport to have the roughest ride of all the models. Some also consider the Toyota Tacoma Limited to have the smoothest ride.
How Reliable Is A Toyota Tacoma?
The Toyota Tacoma has a reputation for its superior reliability. The 2013-2015 models scored a 5/5 reliability rating. While 2016 proved a bad year for Tacoma with a reliability rating of 1/5, subsequent years scored an average of 3.5/5.
Why Do Toyota Tacomas Last So Long?
Toyota Tacomas last a long time because manufacturers have focused on keeping them simple. That way, they could master their original design rather than create new models with flaws.
Because of their basic design, Tacomas are easier and cheaper to fix, increasing the likelihood that owners will keep up with the maintenance.
In Closing
The Toyota Tacoma SR5 is a reliable truck with basic features. It is suitable for everyday driving and the occasional light off-roading adventure.
The TRD Off-road still offers reliable everyday driving, but its added features are appealing for those who enjoy off-roading and driving in difficult terrain. While you can't go wrong with either of these vehicles, each one offers a unique experience that meets different needs.
For more information about the Toyota Tacoma, take a look at this article: