There’s no denying that the Toyota Tundra is in dire need of a refresh. The current generation dates back to 2007, a time before the pandemic existed and the Apple iPhone was a new and revolutionary device. Fast forward to today and the widespread pandemic is still lingering and the iPhone 12 just made its debut, yet the Tundra’s 13-year-old configuration still remains.

But if you want to change things up, you can always opt for the TRD Pro, which is the off-road-worthy trim that spices the Tundra up with a host of rock-crawling goodies. But is it really worth it to spend the extra money for the TRD package?

Toyota Tundra TRD Pro

Toyota Racing Development (TRD) has gussied up a lot of models in Toyota’s current lineup including the Camry, Avalon, Tacoma, and the 86, so it’s not too surprising that it put its magic touch on a full-size truck like the Tundra. However, instead of any performance accessories, the TRD package adds on a wealth of options that make the truck capable of going off the beaten path.

Opting for the TRD Pro trim level for the Tundra will outfit the truck with 18-inch forged BBS wheels, a TRD dual exhaust, TRD skid plate, and best of all, a set of TRD springs matched to TRD-tuned FOX shocks with external reservoirs to take care of any bump, dips, or boulders you happen to run over. On the inside, the front seats are adorned in black leather with red contrast stitching in addition to a couple of TRD logos embroidered on the headrests. Overall, the off-road look complements the entire truck well, as does the new-for-2021 Lunar Rock exterior paint job.

How does it drive?

According to Toyota, the TRD spring and shock combination add two inches of lift-up front and ups the rear travel by more than two inches as well. This modification does wonders when it comes to driving on uneven pavement or anything that would otherwise upset any non-worthy truck, but when it comes to the daily drive, it can be a little unnecessary. The lifted ride height makes it tough to get in and out of the truck and while it does make for a higher viewpoint when driving, the lack of front and rear parking sensors make getting in and out of tight parking lots and spaces a pain.

As for the truck’s driving performance, we especially liked the rumble that the TRD exhaust system gives off under heavy acceleration, which gives the hefty 5.7-liter V8 the proper audible voice any truck enthusiast would love. And let’s not forget that the tuned suspension makes quick work of any parking lot curb or speed bump and the large tires gained traction on any snow-filled rut we drove over. Sadly, we weren’t able to put the truck through its paces on a proper off-road path.

Otherwise, if our daily commute, or at least our weekend fun, consisted of hitting the trails or towing off-road toys up to our favorite outdoor fun spot, then the Tundra TRD Pro would be the best vehicle to take.

Is the TRD Pro worth it?

Checking the box for the TRD Pro trim level is definitely worth it if you’re going to really make use of the Tundra’s Toyota-given gifts and capability. However, if you’re only planning to use it for daily driving duties, or just to look cool in a massive truck, then we say either buy a lower trim level and modify to your own tastes or simply skip the TRD Pro altogether as it’s not worth spending the extra few thousands dollar over the top-trim Tundra Platinum.