Toyota
Toyota's mid-size pickup. Strong reliability reputation, dedicated TRD Pro variant, and a foundational platform for the modern off-road truck market.
The Toyota Tacoma is a mid-size pickup truck produced continuously since 1995 (replacing the previous Toyota T100 and Hilux-derived trucks). The Tacoma has been one of the best-selling mid-size pickups in North America for nearly 30 years, anchored by Toyota reliability reputation and strong off-road capability. The model has gone through three generations to date: first (1995-2004), second (2005-2015), and third (2016-2023), with the fourth generation launched in 2024. The Tacoma TRD Pro variant is the off-road focused trim. Standard equipment includes Fox internal bypass shocks, off-road tires, increased ground clearance, locking rear differential, and TRD-specific styling. The TRD Pro competes directly with the Ford Ranger Raptor and Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 in the mid-size off-road truck segment. Other Tacoma variants (TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, base) cover more conservative use cases. The Tacoma has built a particularly strong overland and off-road following. The combination of mid-size dimensions (more capable than a compact truck, more nimble than a full-size), Toyota reliability, and the TRD Pro variant has made the Tacoma a favorite for serious off-road enthusiasts. Aftermarket support is exceptional; lift kits, larger tires, recovery gear, and various other modifications are widely available. The fourth-generation Tacoma launched in 2024 with significant improvements. The new platform includes a hybrid powertrain option (i-FORCE MAX), updated chassis, improved interior, and refined off-road capabilities. The TRD Pro variant continues with revised styling and tuning. On WhipJury, Tacoma submissions are common, particularly TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road variants with overland modifications. Lifted Tacomas with larger tires, recovery gear, and roof tents are typical. The community recognizes the Tacoma as one of the best-supported off-road platforms.
The Tacoma TRD Pro is the off-road focused variant. Fox internal bypass shocks, locking rear differential, TRD-specific aerodynamic accessories, and 33-inch off-road tires. Specifically tuned for serious off-road use including high-speed desert running and technical trails. Comparable in concept to the Ford Ranger Raptor.
First (1995-2004). Original Tacoma, replacing the T100. Compact mid-size dimensions. 5VZ-FE V6 in performance applications.
Second (2005-2015). Larger and more refined. 4.0 V6 (1GR-FE) engine. The breakthrough generation for off-road following.
Third (2016-2023). Updated platform. 3.5 V6 with direct injection. Refined chassis dynamics.
Fourth (2024+). Latest generation. Hybrid powertrain option (i-FORCE MAX). Updated chassis. TRD Pro continues.
TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road variants reliably do well in voting, particularly with overland modifications (lifts, larger tires, roof tents, recovery gear). Stock Tacomas appear regularly. The community recognizes the Tacoma as one of the top mid-size off-road platforms.