How to Choose Between 2020 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport vs TRD Off-Road

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For many people it is an easy decision to buy a Toyota Tacoma. The hard part is picking what one to get. We give you tips to choose between 2020 Tacoma TRD Off-Road and TRD Sport.

The country’s top midsize truck is about to get the award for most improved. Well at least in my book. The 2020 Toyota Tacoma is coming to dealerships near you this fall complete with an entire set of new upgrades and additions. These improvements will help you with added technology, safety and convenience.

This is a refresh year for the 2020 Tacoma, which means while most of the truck remains the same, there are quite a few changes and features to each trim level that make it worth a strong look to purchase.

A whole host of new standard features for 2020 Tacoma

Before we get into the Off-Road versus Sport comparison, it might be a wise idea to talk about the across-the-board changes.

Multimedia fans will be pleased to find Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa commands on every new 2020 Toyota Tacoma this year. It will be easier and more convenient than ever to manage your music, make and receive phone calls and coordinate navigation functions. All SR models feature 7-inch multimedia touch screens, while all others have the even larger 8-inch touch screens.

Most trim levels will receive new front grille and taillight updates, along with new alloy wheel designs. All V6 Tacomas from the SR5 level up get a brand new 10-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support. This is huge news for people of all heights and sizes, and it is an important and expected feature Tacoma drivers have been asking about for many years.

Tell us about 2020 Tacoma TRD Sport

The TRD Sport is a very popular grade level. It offers a more high-performance type ride due to its sport-tuned front and rear suspension. You can spot its trademark hood scoop from a long distance away.

I became a huge fan of the updated 2020 Tacoma TRD Sport when I first laid eyes on its new 17-inch alloy wheel design, which is a combination of silver and gloss black.

The most appealing TRD Sport additions are not necessarily standard, but rather features that are available as an upgrade package. You may want to consider upgrading to LED headlights and LED daytime running lights, as well as adding in the available Panoramic View Monitor. This set of cameras allows you to see all the way around your 2020 Tacoma as you drive.

2020 Tacoma TRD Off-Road offers tough off-roading tools

By very nature of its name, the 2020 Tacoma TRD Off-Road arms you with several tools and resources to conquer that next remote trail or mountain pass. First off, it features an off-road suspension complete with Bilstein shocks.

Also, look for electronically controlled locking rear differential, crawl control and multi-terrain select. These features will allow you to successfully tackle those challenging obstacles and tough terrain that stand in your way.

As opposed to Sport’s 17-inch alloy wheels, the 2020 TRD Off-Road’s offers 16-inch alloy wheels that are silver and dark gray accented.

You can upgrade to LED headlights, daytime running lights and fog lamps just like in 2020 TRD Sport. Also, the new Multi-Terrain Monitor allows you to see underneath your Tacoma so you can spot that next treacherous rock or stump.

Both models share some identical changes

New features that both trucks share include a 10-way power driver’s seat, dark gray three-dimensional front grille and chrome insert taillamps. Also, smart key system is shared by both grades, and works on both the driver and passenger front doors.

My video review compares 2020 Tacoma TRD Off-Road vs TRD Sport.

Remember, both Tacoma TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road now offer passengers an 8-inch touch screen with which to use their Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Time for your thoughts on the 2020 Toyota Tacoma

Just as every other 2020 Tacoma trim level is the benefactor of new updates, so too is the 2020 Tacoma TRD Pro. You may also be interested in reading about updates to the TRD Pro, especially the new Army Green color.

The 2020 Tacoma is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 278 horsepower and 265 lb.-ft. torque. It is matched with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission. Both trucks are available in rear-wheel drive or part-time four-wheel drive.

Just as both 2020 Tacoma TRD Off-Road and TRD Sport are similar in features, they share the same factory MSRP. Pricing for a 4x4 Double Cab V6 is $36,965 for each.

What do you think of the changes coming to 2020 Tacoma? Do you plan on shopping for one in the near future? What trim level is catching your eye the most?

Thanks for reading everyone. See you next story when I reveal 1st look pics of 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Limited exterior and interior.

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Submitted by Betsy (not verified) on October 8, 2019 - 7:06PM

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Thanks for all your super-helpful and informative posts and videos! Any news on when the 2020 Tacomas and 4Runners will be available anywhere near Chicago? I'm about to cave and buy a 2019--been waiting for the 2020s forEVER! ;-) Thanks!!!