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What is the TRD Off-Road upgrade package?

The TRD Off-Road upgrade package is Toyota’s factory-offered enhancement for certain pickups and SUVs that adds off-road-focused hardware and electronics to improve trail performance. It is designed to bridge the gap between standard trim levels and the more extreme TRD Pro offerings, delivering rugged capability with retained everyday usability.

In practical terms, the package outfits select Toyota models with a tougher suspension, protective undercarriage components, and traction-enhancing systems. Availability and exact content vary by model year and market, but the core goal is to provide better grip, protection, and control when driving off paved roads. Below is a detailed look at what the package typically includes and which models have historically offered it.

What the TRD Off-Road upgrade package includes

The following list outlines the types of equipment you’re likely to find in a TRD Off-Road upgrade, noting that specifics can differ by year and model. This helps explain why the package is valued by buyers seeking enhanced off-road capability without stepping up to the TRD Pro level.

Suspension and protection

Off-road-tuned suspension, including Bilstein shocks on many configurations

TRD-tuned springs to improve ride height and wheel travel for rough terrain

Underbody protection such as engine and transfer-case skid plates

Additional undercarriage protection and reinforced mounting points

The suspension and protection upgrades are designed to improve ground clearance, approach/departure angles, and overall durability when tackling rocky trails or uneven dirt roads.

Traction and electronics

Electronic locking rear differential (e-Locker) to improve traction on loose surfaces

Terrain Management features, commonly including Multi-Terrain Select

Crawl Control on models/trims where it’s available, aiding low-speed off-road progress

4-wheel drive with a low-range transfer case on applicable models

These off-road electronics help the vehicle choose the right amount of grip and power distribution in challenging conditions, reducing wheel spin and enabling controlled progress in rough terrain.

Where the TRD Off-Road package is offered

Toyota has historically offered the TRD Off-Road upgrade on its smaller and mid-size trucks and SUVs, with Tacoma and 4Runner being the primary examples. Availability can vary by model year, region, and trim level, and the package is typically positioned below the higher-end TRD Pro option.

Toyota Tacoma

TRD Off-Road package available on various Tacoma trims in multiple years

Typically includes off-road suspension, e-Locker, and terrain modes appropriate to the truck’s drivetrain

For the Tacoma, the upgrade is aimed at buyers who want genuine off-road capability without stepping up to the more extreme TRD Pro equipment.

Toyota 4Runner

TRD Off-Road package offered on select 4Runner trims in several model years

Often pairs Bilstein shocks and TRD-tuned components with off-road electronics

On the 4Runner, the Off-Road version typically complements adventure-ready styling and a rugged chassis, providing enhanced capability while maintaining daily drivability.

Note: Availability and exact contents can differ by market and model year. Always check the current build sheet or with a dealer for the precise equipment included on a specific vehicle.

Summary

The TRD Off-Road upgrade package represents Toyota’s factory approach to boosting off-road performance without moving into the top-tier TRD Pro territory. By combining a reinforced suspension, underbody protection, electronic rear differential locking, and terrain-management tools, it equips Tacoma and 4Runner buyers with meaningful off-road capability suitable for trails and rough terrain while preserving on-road comfort. For those seeking even more extreme capability, the TRD Pro line remains the next step up.

Is TRD sport or TRD off-road more expensive?

The TRD Sport, for example, is more affordable than the TRD Off-Road and offers the same interior features, but the TRD Off-Road provides stronger all-terrain equipment as standard. See the details below, or test-drive your ideal Tacoma trims today at Street Toyota.

What is the difference between TRD Pro and TRD off-road package?

The main differences are that the TRD Pro has a more performance-focused, factory-built off-road setup with Fox shocks and a hybrid powertrain (in some models), while the TRD Off-Road is a more customizable and value-oriented option with a robust suspension and features like a rear locking differential and multi-terrain select. The TRD Pro often includes more premium interior features and exclusive cosmetic touches, but can have less rear legroom due to its specialized seats.
This video highlights the key differences between the TRD Pro and TRD Off-Road, including suspension and interior features: 1mBen HardyYouTube · Mar 6, 2025
TRD Pro

Suspension: TRD-tuned Fox 2.5-inch QS3 shocks with remote reservoirs and front sway bar disconnect.
Engine: Typically comes standard with the more powerful i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain.
Interior: Features exclusive IsoDynamic front seats that offer better support but can reduce rear legroom, along with unique red stitching and badging.
Exterior: Includes unique features like a TRD Pro grille, a hood scoop, and integrated LED fog lights.
Other features: Comes with a front skid plate and a larger inverter.

TRD Off-Road

Suspension: Features a reliable suspension with Bilstein monotube shocks with remote reservoirs, but can be customized for specific needs.
Engine: Offers the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain and can also be equipped with a manual transmission on some models.
Interior: Generally has more rear legroom and more standard features with the premium package, such as leather and heated seats.
Exterior: Offers a more traditional appearance but can be easily modified to achieve a similar look to the TRD Pro with aftermarket parts.
Other features: Includes a rear locking differential, multi-terrain select, and auxiliary switches.

You can watch this video to see a comparison of the exterior differences and hear about the modifications possible on the TRD Off-Road: 43sMuscle AmericanYouTube · Jan 27, 2025
Which one should you choose?

Choose the TRD Pro if: You plan on aggressive, high-speed off-roading and prefer a factory-tuned, high-performance vehicle without the need for modifications. You also don't mind the slightly reduced rear legroom and higher price point.
Choose the TRD Off-Road if: You want a more customizable and budget-friendly option, or if you prioritize rear passenger space and have plans to modify the vehicle to your exact specifications. The TRD Off-Road offers many of the same off-road capabilities at a lower starting price, making it a great choice for personalization.

What is the Toyota Premium off-road package?

And a full-size underbody spare tire in addition to a few other items. Now whether you get the Sport or the Off-Road.

What is a TRD off-road package?

The TRD Off-Road package is a Toyota upgrade for improved off-road performance, adding features like a special suspension, locking rear differential, and Multi-Terrain Select. These upgrades enhance capability on rough terrain by improving traction and providing tools like Crawl Control, which acts as a low-speed cruise control for navigating obstacles. The package also typically includes other off-road-focused enhancements like skid plates and all-terrain tires.

Performance and traction features

TRD-tuned off-road suspension: Provides better performance and absorption over rough terrain, often using specific shocks like Bilstein shocks.
Electronically locking rear differential: Locks the rear wheels together at low speeds to provide maximum traction when one wheel is slipping on uneven ground.
Multi-Terrain Select (MTS): Allows the driver to choose a setting for different surfaces like mud, sand, or rock to optimize the truck's performance.
Crawl Control: Functions as a low-speed cruise control that automatically modulates the throttle and brakes, allowing the driver to focus solely on steering through difficult obstacles.

Other included equipment

Skid plates: Protect the undercarriage from damage on rough terrain.
All-terrain tires: Often paired with 16-inch alloy wheels, these tires are designed for a mix of on-road and off-road driving.
Wider approach angle: The suspension and bumper design can provide a more favorable angle to clear obstacles.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.