Is the 2022 Toyota Tacoma Good Off-Road?
For mid-size truck buyers, oftentimes off-road capability plays a big role in what gets bought. The 2022 Toyota Tacoma offers legitimate off-road capability depending on trim level. And it can even come with a six-speed manual transmission, which is a rarity in modern truck models. Additional features include available four-wheel drive, a V6 engine, and an electronically locking rear differential. But, just how capable is the 2022 Toyota Tacoma off-road?
The 2022 Toyota Tacoma is an off-road-ready, mid-size truck
One key element makes the 2022 Toyota Tacoma a mid-size truck that is ready to go off-road. And that is the TRD Pro trim level. With the TRD Pro package, the Tacoma receives a suspension lift, skid plates, and TRD-tuned FOX Internal Bypass shocks. These components come together to make the 2022 Tacoma a truck that can handle rugged conditions from the factory.
Better yet, the TRD Pro trim also adds 16-inch wheels with all-terrain tires from Goodyear. This brings even more capability to this mid-size truck. Also notable is the fact that the 2022 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro comes standard with the V6 engine and 4WD. The 3.5-liter V6 engine makes 278 horsepower and 265 pound-foot of torque. Better yet, it can come paired to a six-speed manual transmission.
Do you need a Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro to go off-road?
Toyota understands that not everyone can buy the top-trim Tacoma, which is why there are more budget-friendly models that can go off-road. For instance, the 2022 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road has a starting price of $34,890 and can go off-road.
The TRD Off-Road trim has a locking rear differential, Bilstein shock, and special drive modes to tackle rugged terrain. While it may not have everything that the TRD Pro has, it is also less expensive. Making it more attainable for some buyers. Which is likely to be appreciated.
Should you buy the 2022 Tacoma truck?
If you are shopping for a new, mid-size truck, the Toyota Tacoma could be the right pick. Especially if you are someone who enjoys taking the road less traveled. As one of the few trucks left with a manual transmission and its available off-road features, the new Tacoma mixes modern features with old-school tough. Which allows it to fill a variety of automotive roles with ease.
According to Car and Driver, for most, the Tacoma TRD Off-Road is the right trim. Although, the publication does note that in order to get this trim with the manual transmission, you must opt for the five-foot bed. So, you do lose some utility, but unless you need extra room to haul, that is likely a fine compromise.
Will there be a 2023 Toyota Tacoma?
Although there is not a firm release date, there will be a 2023 Toyota Tacoma. The Tacoma has long been a mainstay in Toyota’s lineup, and it makes sense that it will stay in production.
It is expected that the 2023 Tacoma will receive some kind of redesign to update it. It could even mark a new generation of this mid-size truck. But for now, the 2022 model remains a capable and practical vehicle.
