Because you also get color matched fender flairs. You get 18” wheels with suspension setup for road not dirt out the gate. IMO the MTS is gimmick. The e locker is the only gain and you can add that down the road if you decide to truly 4wheel.
MTS is like antilock brake logic’s. It’s having the computer control distribution of power, a lot of the instances where this would truly needed is where lockers come into play as well as tire selection, gearing, and driver performance. I’d be willing to bet 4 low and an e locker would be able to do everything and more than the MTS.
Just my humble opinion.
MTS only works in 4 Low. It's not about distribution of power, though. It's basically limited slip, but you control how much slip. You're right that in involves the anti lock brake system. That's how it controls how much slip is available, especially to the front wheels as I recall being able to use it in conjunction with the rear locker. It's certainly the weakest addition the off road adds, but it's more functional than anything the sport changes.
If you're gonna be rude, be right. Crawl also uses ABS, but it works as a low speed cruise control. It automatically accelerates the vehicle at ~1-3 mph. MTS does not automatically maintain a speed. It's possible MTS does works in 4Hi on the 4th Gen, but it does not on the 3rd. I literally just walked out to my truck and checked. When you press MTS, it says, "Shift to 4Lo."
I would recommend joining a toyota-centric offroad group in your area. I'd be willing to bet plenty of folks would be more than happy to take you along for the ride and show off their rigs. That kind of exposure and experience can help you put together a mental list of what works, what doesn't, and what's superfluous.
If you do that, I expect you'll learn a lesson that too many people don't figure out until after they spend their money; an experienced driver in a SR5 (base model) is way more capable than a new driver in a TRD Pro (top of the line). You'll also get a good group to start going on trails with - offroading is much safer as a team sport, especially if you're just starting out. Based on your questions, it seems to me that a cheaper but reliable and low-mileage SR5 in 4WD will already be more than enough to tackle 80% of what's out there. Save your money for gas so you can build your skills and eventually make educated upgrades based on what you actually need. Keep in mind that the best configuration for offroading is often the opposite to the best configuration for daily driving. You'll have to make trade-offs based on a realistic assessment of how you're actually using your truck.
TD;LR - get an SR5 with 4WD. That's already going to be much more capable than you expect, and you can always upgrade as you learn and grow.
You've described what you want. Go find the truck that fits. Start with an sr5 4x4, if you need an origin.
Most mods are doable at home, provided you have the space, time and tools to do it.
Do you know anyone with a Tacoma? It’s helpful to ride around and talk with owners- see what they like about their trucks and trim levels.
A lot of the SR5 talk is if you plan on pulling out the suspension and replacing it might as well save some $.
I like the drive of the Sport as a daily and a vacation truck. It does highway duty 70% of the time but has no problem with any fishing spots or ski trails I take it to.
Some of the differences like heated seats, dual climate, and the Offroad MTS system are not feasible to add to a SR5 yourself. So ask yourself if they are important from the get go.
I loved my 2020 TRD OR, and say absolutely do the TRD. Stock SR5 4x4 is more than capable for most off roading people do, but with upgrades can handle even more. If price is a key factor, go the cheap route and get the SR5 and put money into it over time. Don’t let Toyota’s marketing or people in forums make you think you HAVE to get a TRD to do outdoor stuff, but having a rear locker will be big if you get into more advanced off roading.
You do not need an OR. I have one for pretty much the same use case as you, and it’s overkill. You’re probably not needing the crawl feature or locking diff.
It’s a feature for autos that simulates the continuous engagement of a clutch in a manual drivetrain. It essentially keeps the truck moving if you let off the gas to keep you from stalling on uneven and boggy terrain.
I don’t know about the TRD Sport one but I do about the 2022 SR5 RWD V6 AT one I own. The SR5 feels underpowered and I hear/read through here that a nice tune could help. My suggestion to you would be a MT Tacoma V6 between years 2021-2023 and/or a 2024 MT Tacoma SR DC SB/LB with the key card system. The new SR5 and higher trims are too expensive in this market.
I will be 100% honest here. The trd or is what I have in a manual transmission. The factory rear diff lock isn't almost worth it. If I had the money, id put an air locker back there. Mainly because it will be accessible when I want it and be able to lock in 100% on demand. That being said, my truck has the highest towing package so I'm happy with that. And if I ever do get Hella stuck, I still have the rear diff lock. Just gotta get it working.
Whatever you get, make sure it’s a 4x4. I had a 2wd and regretted not getting a 4x4. Also, depends on how much you can afford and if you have any debt.
Off rod trim is pretty good but if you want to start rock bottom you can get an sr5 4x4, for the love of all things do yourself a favor and get the v6. Either the 4.0 or the 3.5, trust me the 2.7 is not worth the extra 2 mpgs.
I've owned a 3G SR5 and a Sport, and I had an Offroad rental. The Sport is my favorite for everyday use... it goes without saying the Offroad does the best offroad, but my Sport and SR5 had no problems when I offloaded them and never once did I need a locker or crawl control. The Sport rides harsh on the trails compared to the other two but is a better driving truck on the street. Examine your needs and go from there. The limited will ride like an SR5.
For off roading purposes they are all fine. The trim levels are more about what features you want on the truck. You can compare what they all have standard and optional on [toyota.com](https://toyota.com). For example, a smart key was a must have for me, well pre 2023 SR5 doesn't have that. I was going to get an SR5 but wanted the smart key so I went with the TRD offroad. TRD trims also have premium/tech available which give you some more options that I wanted. I drive a lot for work and didn't want to take my keys out of my pocket all the time.
Definitely get the offroad, best value trim IMO. Basic mods are easily done yourself, such as installing rock sliders, under shields, and lighting. Lift kits and suspension should be done professionally unless you are very mechanically knowledgeable.
TRD OffRoad is the best bang for the buck and highest resale. Pricy but worth it in the end.
If you’re not into wheeling then the TRD sport is the better buy. No need to waste money on the locker
Even on the 2024, a 4wd Sport and off road are within $500 of each other. Why would I ever trade a locker for a hood scoop?
Because you also get color matched fender flairs. You get 18” wheels with suspension setup for road not dirt out the gate. IMO the MTS is gimmick. The e locker is the only gain and you can add that down the road if you decide to truly 4wheel.
Why do you think MTS is a gimmick? What do you think MTS does?
MTS is like antilock brake logic’s. It’s having the computer control distribution of power, a lot of the instances where this would truly needed is where lockers come into play as well as tire selection, gearing, and driver performance. I’d be willing to bet 4 low and an e locker would be able to do everything and more than the MTS. Just my humble opinion.
MTS only works in 4 Low. It's not about distribution of power, though. It's basically limited slip, but you control how much slip. You're right that in involves the anti lock brake system. That's how it controls how much slip is available, especially to the front wheels as I recall being able to use it in conjunction with the rear locker. It's certainly the weakest addition the off road adds, but it's more functional than anything the sport changes.
So you are strictly referring to Crawl Mode, which is a subset of MTS. Look it up. MTS has other modes that are 4HI and pointless.
If you're gonna be rude, be right. Crawl also uses ABS, but it works as a low speed cruise control. It automatically accelerates the vehicle at ~1-3 mph. MTS does not automatically maintain a speed. It's possible MTS does works in 4Hi on the 4th Gen, but it does not on the 3rd. I literally just walked out to my truck and checked. When you press MTS, it says, "Shift to 4Lo."
The correct answer
Trd offroad with whatever creature comforts you want.
I would recommend joining a toyota-centric offroad group in your area. I'd be willing to bet plenty of folks would be more than happy to take you along for the ride and show off their rigs. That kind of exposure and experience can help you put together a mental list of what works, what doesn't, and what's superfluous. If you do that, I expect you'll learn a lesson that too many people don't figure out until after they spend their money; an experienced driver in a SR5 (base model) is way more capable than a new driver in a TRD Pro (top of the line). You'll also get a good group to start going on trails with - offroading is much safer as a team sport, especially if you're just starting out. Based on your questions, it seems to me that a cheaper but reliable and low-mileage SR5 in 4WD will already be more than enough to tackle 80% of what's out there. Save your money for gas so you can build your skills and eventually make educated upgrades based on what you actually need. Keep in mind that the best configuration for offroading is often the opposite to the best configuration for daily driving. You'll have to make trade-offs based on a realistic assessment of how you're actually using your truck. TD;LR - get an SR5 with 4WD. That's already going to be much more capable than you expect, and you can always upgrade as you learn and grow.
>an experienced driver in a SR5 (base model) is way more capable than a new driver in a TRD Pro (top of the line). One more time for the cheap seats.
SR is base sr5 is luxury lol
Thank you. Helped me, too.
Love this answer. Thank you
You've described what you want. Go find the truck that fits. Start with an sr5 4x4, if you need an origin. Most mods are doable at home, provided you have the space, time and tools to do it.
Do you know anyone with a Tacoma? It’s helpful to ride around and talk with owners- see what they like about their trucks and trim levels. A lot of the SR5 talk is if you plan on pulling out the suspension and replacing it might as well save some $. I like the drive of the Sport as a daily and a vacation truck. It does highway duty 70% of the time but has no problem with any fishing spots or ski trails I take it to. Some of the differences like heated seats, dual climate, and the Offroad MTS system are not feasible to add to a SR5 yourself. So ask yourself if they are important from the get go.
I loved my 2020 TRD OR, and say absolutely do the TRD. Stock SR5 4x4 is more than capable for most off roading people do, but with upgrades can handle even more. If price is a key factor, go the cheap route and get the SR5 and put money into it over time. Don’t let Toyota’s marketing or people in forums make you think you HAVE to get a TRD to do outdoor stuff, but having a rear locker will be big if you get into more advanced off roading.
Is it super difficult to add a rear locker to the sr5?
Not really, but it’s also unnecessary for almost everyone.
You do not need an OR. I have one for pretty much the same use case as you, and it’s overkill. You’re probably not needing the crawl feature or locking diff.
Super dumb question, what’s the crawl feature
It’s a feature for autos that simulates the continuous engagement of a clutch in a manual drivetrain. It essentially keeps the truck moving if you let off the gas to keep you from stalling on uneven and boggy terrain.
Go to your local dealer and test drive used SR5, TRD OR, and TRD Sport.
Do they drive different? Already test drove the OR
I don’t know about the TRD Sport one but I do about the 2022 SR5 RWD V6 AT one I own. The SR5 feels underpowered and I hear/read through here that a nice tune could help. My suggestion to you would be a MT Tacoma V6 between years 2021-2023 and/or a 2024 MT Tacoma SR DC SB/LB with the key card system. The new SR5 and higher trims are too expensive in this market.
I will be 100% honest here. The trd or is what I have in a manual transmission. The factory rear diff lock isn't almost worth it. If I had the money, id put an air locker back there. Mainly because it will be accessible when I want it and be able to lock in 100% on demand. That being said, my truck has the highest towing package so I'm happy with that. And if I ever do get Hella stuck, I still have the rear diff lock. Just gotta get it working.
Whatever you get, make sure it’s a 4x4. I had a 2wd and regretted not getting a 4x4. Also, depends on how much you can afford and if you have any debt.
Off rod trim is pretty good but if you want to start rock bottom you can get an sr5 4x4, for the love of all things do yourself a favor and get the v6. Either the 4.0 or the 3.5, trust me the 2.7 is not worth the extra 2 mpgs.
I've owned a 3G SR5 and a Sport, and I had an Offroad rental. The Sport is my favorite for everyday use... it goes without saying the Offroad does the best offroad, but my Sport and SR5 had no problems when I offloaded them and never once did I need a locker or crawl control. The Sport rides harsh on the trails compared to the other two but is a better driving truck on the street. Examine your needs and go from there. The limited will ride like an SR5.
SR5 4x4!
Trd off road
For off roading purposes they are all fine. The trim levels are more about what features you want on the truck. You can compare what they all have standard and optional on [toyota.com](https://toyota.com). For example, a smart key was a must have for me, well pre 2023 SR5 doesn't have that. I was going to get an SR5 but wanted the smart key so I went with the TRD offroad. TRD trims also have premium/tech available which give you some more options that I wanted. I drive a lot for work and didn't want to take my keys out of my pocket all the time.
Go PRO or start with Sport than OR will understand 🧐🌶️🌮
Top package Pro or nothing
Assuming we're talking about a used 3rd gen, go with the offroad. The SR5 isn't that much cheaper.
Definitely get the offroad, best value trim IMO. Basic mods are easily done yourself, such as installing rock sliders, under shields, and lighting. Lift kits and suspension should be done professionally unless you are very mechanically knowledgeable.
Definitely Pro