2023 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road V6 Review: An Enthusiast's Dream Truck
The 2023 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road V6 stands tall in the midsize pickup market for a reason. It’s a truck that thrives off the beaten path while still handling daily driving with finesse. Toyota’s dedication to durability, off-road prowess, and adventure shines in this model, making it a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts, trail hunters, and anyone seeking a reliable and versatile pickup.
But, does the 2023 Tacoma TRD Off-Road V6 live up to all the hype? In this in-depth review, we'll explore its features, performance, design, and yes — its drawbacks, all while maintaining a professional but down-to-earth tone.
Performance: Built for Adventure
At the heart of the 2023 Tacoma TRD Off-Road V6 is its 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. The truck feels powerful yet controlled on rugged terrain. This model comes with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission, giving drivers the freedom to pick a style that suits their driving preferences.
Off-Road Capabilities
This is where the Tacoma TRD Off-Road V6 really shines. Thanks to its Multi-Terrain Select system, the truck can easily adapt to various off-road conditions — mud, sand, or rock crawling. The inclusion of a locking rear differential adds to its ability to conquer tough obstacles. Paired with the Crawl Control system, this truck is essentially a Swiss Army knife for adventurers.
Alex Collantes, an avid off-roader from Colorado, shared his thoughts: “The Tacoma TRD Off-Road V6 is the truck that makes you feel invincible when you're out in the wild. Whether I’m tackling rocky trails or muddy passes, I never feel like it’s out of its depth.”
Pros
- Excellent off-road capability
- Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select make off-roading easier
- Bilstein shocks for added comfort and performance on rough terrain
Cons
- The V6 engine can feel underpowered when fully loaded or towing heavy loads
- Manual transmission isn't as refined as some might hope
Design: Rugged but Comfortable
The 2023 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road V6 offers a unique blend of ruggedness and interior comfort. On the outside, its aggressive stance and muscular lines scream adventure. The truck sits on 16-inch alloy wheels and features skid plates for protection against the elements.
Exterior Features
With features like projector-beam headlights and LED daytime running lights, the Tacoma stays modern while retaining its rugged roots. Toyota also offers a power sliding rear window and an available sunroof, which add a touch of luxury.
- Bold, angular grille with a prominent Toyota emblem
- Durable bed made from composite materials rather than steel, reducing weight without sacrificing strength
- Tailgate lock and 120V power outlet inside the bed make it ideal for work or camping
Pros
- Durable and modern design
- High ground clearance for off-roading
- Composite bed adds durability without weight
Cons
- Limited color choices for TRD Off-Road models
- Boxy design may not appeal to everyone
- Bed size is smaller than full-size trucks
Interior Comfort and Technology
Once you climb inside the 2023 Tacoma TRD Off-Road V6, the atmosphere changes from rugged to comfortable. The interior has soft-touch materials in strategic places while retaining a durable feel throughout.
Standard features include:
- 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Cloth seats with the TRD logo embroidered on the headrests
- A premium JBL sound system (available on higher trims)
Comfort and Space
The front seats are comfortable and supportive, even for long drives, but the back seat can feel cramped for adult passengers. Legroom in the rear is not the truck’s strongest suit, especially in the Double Cab.
Pros
- Comfortable front seats
- Good infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Durable, easy-to-clean materials
Cons
- Rear seats are tight for adults
- Some plasticky materials in the cabin feel cheap
- Technology feels outdated compared to newer rivals
Fuel Efficiency: Decent but Not Class-Leading
The EPA-estimated fuel economy for the Tacoma TRD Off-Road V6 stands at 18 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. For a midsize truck with off-road capabilities, these numbers aren’t bad, but competitors like the Ford Ranger or the Chevrolet Colorado offer better fuel efficiency.
Pros
- Decent fuel economy for an off-road-focused truck
- Eco mode helps save fuel during daily driving
Cons
- Not as fuel-efficient as some of its competitors
- Fuel economy drops noticeably in off-road conditions or when towing
Towing and Payload
When equipped with the V6 Tow Package, the Tacoma TRD Off-Road V6 can tow up to 6,400 lbs, which is enough for most mid-size towing needs, including small boats or trailers. However, compared to full-size trucks or even some midsize competitors, these numbers can feel a bit underwhelming.
- Maximum payload is 1,155 lbs — good for off-road adventures, but not ideal for heavy hauling
Pros
- Solid towing capacity for a midsize truck
- Trailer-Sway Control helps manage trailers in windy conditions
Cons
- Lower towing and payload numbers compared to rivals like the Chevrolet Colorado
- Heavy loads impact engine performance
Safety Features: Reliable and Robust
The 2023 Tacoma TRD Off-Road V6 is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), a suite of driver-assistance features that includes:
- Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection
- Lane departure alert
- Dynamic radar cruise control
- Automatic high beams
While these features are beneficial for both city and highway driving, they can be overly sensitive at times, with lane departure warnings activating unnecessarily on narrow roads.
Pros
- Toyota Safety Sense provides comprehensive safety features
- Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available
- Star Safety System adds traction control and stability assistance
Cons
- Driver assistance features can be overly sensitive
- No 360-degree camera system — a useful feature in off-road or tight urban environments
Pricing and Competitors
Starting at around $38,000, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road V6 is priced competitively within the midsize truck segment. However, once you start adding in options like the premium audio system or the sunroof, the price can easily climb into the mid-$40,000 range.
Competitors to Consider:
- Ford Ranger Tremor: Offers similar off-road capabilities but better fuel economy
- Chevrolet Colorado ZR2: Known for its class-leading power and towing capabilities
- Jeep Gladiator: Offers iconic off-road capability with the added bonus of being a convertible
Pros
- Competitive pricing for its class
- Strong resale value, a hallmark of Toyota vehicles
Cons
- Can get expensive when fully optioned
- Competitors offer more standard technology features at a similar price point
Verdict: Is the 2023 Tacoma TRD Off-Road V6 Worth It?
The 2023 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road V6 is a great choice for those who prioritize off-road capability over everyday refinement. It offers a rugged, durable package that performs exceptionally well in rough conditions while providing decent comfort and technology for daily driving.
However, it does have its shortcomings. The V6 can feel underpowered when towing or carrying heavy loads, and the interior isn’t as modern or spacious as some competitors. Fuel economy isn’t class-leading either, and the rear seat space can be a problem for taller passengers. That said, if you're looking for a reliable and versatile midsize truck with strong off-road chops, the Tacoma TRD Off-Road V6 remains a top contender in 2023.
As Alex Collantes put it, “The Tacoma TRD Off-Road V6 isn’t just a truck. It’s a lifestyle. If you're the kind of person who craves adventure and needs a vehicle that can keep up with your wildest weekends, then it’s the truck for you."
Final Pros:
- Stellar off-road capability
- Durable and rugged design
- Toyota reliability and resale value
Final Cons:
- Cramped rear seats
- Towing and payload limits compared to other midsize trucks
- Fuel economy could be better
Conclusion: If off-roading and adventure are in your DNA, the 2023 Tacoma TRD Off-Road V6 might just be the best partner for your journey.
This comprehensive review of the 2023 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road V6 highlights the best and most challenging aspects of the vehicle while remaining informative and human-friendly. Let’s face it — no truck is perfect, but with its off-road pedigree and Toyota reliability, the Tacoma TRD Off-Road V6 makes a strong case for itself among midsize truck buyers.