While most auto companies are building their trucks and SUVs to become more and more refined and city-like, Toyota is doing the opposite: their going back to their roots by getting down and dirty. The company announced at the Chicago Auto Show that their TRD (Toyota Racing Development) department is working their magic on the Tundra, Tacoma, and 4Runner in 2015.
Toyota’s goal is pretty simple: take three of the most successful trucks and SUVs, and modify them in-house for the off-road enthusiast. All three TRD models achieve this across three levels: they act the part (TRD Bilstien shocks, tuned front springs, and a front skid plate); they feel the part (TRD floor mats and shift knobs); and they look the part (signature black wheels and old-school front grilles with the unforgettable “Toyota” lettering).
Everything about the TRD line is improved over the base models (at least as far as off-roading is concerned). The wheels are larger (18” for the Tundra, 17” for the 4Runner, and 16” for the Tacoma), and the shocks and springs are dramatically increased front and rear. While the 4Runner features no alterations with its exhaust system, both the Tacoma and Tundra feature stainless steel systems with polished steel dual wall tips, as well as an increased, beefy purr. The Tundra features a TRD cat back exhaust, while the Tacoma optimizes TRD dual exhaust.
And if you want to look the part? In addition to the wheel and grille modifications, all models are offered in a TRD-exclusive Inferno color; to amplify matters, the Tundra and Tacoma have their name stamped on the doors, while the 4Runner goes for the more subtle black bumper accenting.
So if you love off-roading, have no fear; the rest of the world may be getting soft, but Toyota sure isn’t.
Photo Credit: Toyota
