2011 Toyota Tacoma TRD TX Pro review and pictures

Toyota Tacoma TRD TX Pro review:

The Toyota Tacoma, the best-selling compact pickup truck in America, offers two new accessory packages for 2011 based on a concept truck first shown at the 2009 Specialty Equipment Marketing Association (SEMA) Show. The T|X and T|X Pro packages, available in conjunction with the Off-Road Package, add Toyota Racing Development (TRD) accessories in a unique combination at a special value price.

Toyota developed the Tacoma T|X concept truck to gauge consumer reaction at the 2009 SEMA Show.

The concept featured unique dual custom graphic designs on each side of the truck, and an assortment of aggressive performance features inspired by traditional TRD elements that conveyed the lifestyle of Tacoma owners. The overwhelmingly positive reaction to the truck was a major inspiration for the development of the two new packages.

Available on a limited basis, the new T|X and T|X Pro Packages translate a sporty SEMA concept into a package the customer can add to a Tacoma V6 Access Cab or V6 Double Cab on both 4x2 PreRunner and 4x4 drive types equipped with the TRD Off-Road Package. The extra dose of performance makes it the most capable off-road Tacoma in the Toyota lineup.

The T|X Package gives the Tacoma a sporty and even semi-menacing look with TRD 16-inch black alloy bead-lock wheels and 265/70R16 BF Goodrich Rugged Trail tires. Black tube side steps, a stainless steel exhaust tip and unique exterior graphics give the T|X the look of a custom truck, but at a special value. The MSRP of the T|X Package is $1,699, a savings of $754 compared to the package items ordered as separate options.

The T|X Pro Package is a performance-driven package with a TRD cat-back performance exhaust system to give the V6 a throatier sound and a bit more power. Also priced at an MSRP of $1,699, the T|X Pro Package represents a savings of $720 versus the package contents added as separate accessories. Both T|X and T|X Pro packages deliver a superior value to aftermarket accessories, especially considering that they are covered under the three-year/36,000 mile comprehensive vehicle limited warranty.

The TRD Off-Road Package underlying both T|X editions provides a carefully tuned balance of off-road performance and on-road handling. Chassis modifications include an electronic locking rear differential, progressive-rate front springs, specially tuned Bilstein shock absorbers, a 28-mm front stabilizer bar and B.F. Goodrich Rugged Trail tires. Fog lamps top off the package for a tough, sporty appearance. Added features on the TRD Off-Road Package include a 400W/115V powerpoint in the bed, sport seats with adjustable lumbar support and unique fabric, plus an overhead console with a compass and outside temperature display.

Ordering for the 2011 Tacoma T|X Pro Package will begin in July and the T|X Package will launch two months later in September.