Toyota Truck Showdown

When it comes to TRD trucks, Toyota knows how to deliver the goods for folks who crave dirt trails, desert runs, and rugged style. I had the opportunity to drive the 2024 Tacoma TRD Pro Double Cab and the 2025 Tundra TRD Rally back-to-back, and it really opened my eyes to how these two models are cut from the same cloth yet feel wildly different in the real world.

Tacoma TRD Pro: A Hardcore Toy Brought to Life

Let’s start with the 2024 Tacoma TRD Pro, which is the poster child for off-road capability in a midsize truck. Toyota gave this redesign some serious muscle with its i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, which pumps out a stout 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This means it’s got torque for days, and you feel that punch every time the gas engine roars to life.

Loaded with TRD-tuned FOX shocks, a multi-link rear suspension, a Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism for better wheel articulation, and that new IsoDynamic Performance seat system to keep your spine aligned, this truck is built for true trail taming. And let’s not forget the styling — it’s got that mean heritage grille, black fender flares, and beefy tires that make it look like a Hot Wheels truck come to life. If you’re an outdoors junkie, motocrosser, or weekend warrior, the Tacoma TRD Pro is going to scratch that itch.

But here’s where things shifted for me: driving it in the city felt more like piloting a big truck in a smaller body. The ride is stiffer than you’d expect from a midsize, and maneuvering through tight streets or parking lots made me wish it were just a tad more refined. It sounds great and looks even better, but I didn’t love the daily driving feel.

And with an MSRP around $67,794, the Tacoma TRD Pro is right at the top end of the midsize truck price bracket. When you factor in a few quirks — like some hard plastic interior bits that don’t quite feel premium for that price — it makes you pause and ask if it’s truly the best deal.

Tundra TRD Rally: Big Truck Energy, Small Truck Ease

Then came the 2025 Tundra TRD Rally, and man, this one just spoke to me. While it’s a big full-size truck, it doesn’t feel cumbersome at all. Behind the wheel, it’s surprisingly easy to steer and park — the handling feels lighter than you’d expect from a beast this size.

It’s got a burly 3.4-liter twin-turbo V-6 good for 389 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, so highway passing is a breeze and the shifts from the eight-speed automatic are smooth and satisfying. Sure, fuel economy isn’t its strong suit (I averaged about 13.4 mpg), but that big tank means fewer stops.

The TRD Rally package is the star here — Bilstein shocks, skid plates, all-terrain tires, and Toyota’s iconic Baja racing stripes in red, orange, and yellow tie it all together. You get serious off-road goodies like Crawl Control, Multi-Terrain Select, and an electronically controlled locking rear diff. Additionally, the interior is enhanced by SoftTex seats stitched in the same racing colors, adding a fun touch.

Where the Tundra really wins for me is comfort. My road trip to Austin was comfy and quick, and there’s tons of space for five people to stretch out. Even loaded with adventure gear, it felt practical — and more versatile than the Tacoma day-to-day.

And here’s the kicker — the Tundra TRD Rally’s MSRP is around $62,442, so you’re getting a bigger, more powerful truck with more room and better road manners for about $5,000 less than the Tacoma TRD Pro. That’s what I call better bang for your buck.

Verdict: Which TRD Truck Should You Pick?

If your life revolves around serious trails and you want something that looks ready to tackle Baja every weekend, the Tacoma TRD Pro is an absolute beast — no question. It’ll make any off-roader grin ear to ear.

But for me, the Tundra TRD Rally takes the crown. It hits that sweet spot where big-truck muscle meets daily driving comfort. You get legit off-road chops when you want them, a comfy cabin when you don’t, and a price tag that feels more reasonable for what you’re getting. The Baja stripes don’t hurt either.

When the dust settles, these two trucks prove one thing: Toyota’s TRD division still knows how to build trucks that stand out. But for my money, the Tundra TRD Rally is the clear winner.

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