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If you’re in the market for a midsize truck, the 2022 Toyota Tacoma is a likely option. As the most popular model in its class, there is a lot to like about the Tacoma. It’s not very often experts agree on which version of a vehicle is the best. However, for the 2022 Toyota Tacoma, experts like Edmunds and Car and Driver recommend buying the same trim level. Experts agree on the best 2022 Toyota Tacoma trim, the TRD Off-Road model.

What is the best 2022 Toyota Tacoma trim?

2022 Toyota Tacoma parked near a lake and mountains. Experts agree the TRD Off-Road model is the best trim.
The 2022 Toyota Tacoma pickup truck | Toyota

If you’re someone who often researches cars online, you’ll likely notice a trend. For the most part, experts will disagree on the best trim level for several reasons. That’s why when a few agree on which version is best; it probably means it’s a stand-out model. Moreover, both Edmunds and Car and Driver think the TRD Off-Road is the best 2022 Toyota Tacoma trim.

C/D likes the TRD Off-Road for the standard electronic rear locking differential, 16-inch wheels, black over-fenders, many driver assists, and a modern infotainment system. Additional tech features include Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and the Technology package. Selecting the optional package (which C/D recommends) gets owners upgraded front lighting with LEDs, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking sensors.

Next, Edmunds likes the TRD Off-Road for its many modern amenities. For example, keyless entry and ignition, heated mirrors, and an enhanced off-road capability. The publication says even those who won’t do much (or any) off-roading will find a lot of value in the Tacoma TRD Off-Road model.

Is TRD Off-Road better than TRD Sport?

The 2022 Toyota Tacoma shows off its capability as a mid-size truck with an optional manual transmission.
2022 Toyota Tacoma | Toyota

According to Edmunds, the 2022 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road and TRD Sport are very close in price. The experts recommended model starts at $36,555, and the alternative is $36,530. Moreover, the TRD Sport comes with 17-inch wheels, a Sport suspension, a hood scoop, and more. More convenience features enter the lineup with the TRD Sport as well, like wireless charging and a 120-volt outlet in the bed. However, the TRD Off-Road model takes everything good about the Sport and improves it.

Upgrading to the TRD Off-Road changes the wheels to 16-inches and removes the hood scoop. Next, Tacoma owners gain a chrome rear bumper, textured black fender flares, a lockable rear differential, Bilstein shock absorbers, and an advanced off-road traction system with terrain settings and rock crawl. In addition, both models have access to the same optional packages.

The Technology, Premium Audio and Dynamic Navigation, Premium Sport, and Advanced Technology packages are available options. Purchasing these extras provides you with excellent features like blind-spot monitor, rear parking sensors, a JBL audio system, heated front seats, and much more.

Is the 2022 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro worth the money?

Experts agree the best 2022 Toyota Tacoma trim is the TRD Off-Road model. However, there’s an even more expensive, well-equipped off-road model at the top of the range of Tacomas, the TRD Pro. As you’d expect, it’s much more costly than other models. Does the Tacoma TRD Pro provide enough bang for your buck?

Firstly, the TRD Pro model starts at $47,800, roughly $10,000 more than the TRD Off-Road. However, owners get upgrades like black-painted TRD wheels with all-terrain tires, increased approach, breakover, and departure angles, and an off-road-oriented suspension with Fox shock absorbers. As a result, the TRD Pro model is heavily geared toward off-road driving.

If that’s not enough, the range-topping Tacoma also comes with a unique grille, a hood scoop, a thicker front skid plate, an upgraded exhaust, a multi-terrain monitor, a sunroof, special leather upholstery, the JBL audio system, navigation, and more. Buying a TRD Pro is for those who plan to do some serious off-roading. If you’re not going to drive off the beaten path very often, we wouldn’t recommend paying so much more for the mostly off-road features.

Experts agree on the best 2022 Toyota Tacoma trim

In conclusion, the best 2022 Toyota Tacoma trim is the TRD Off-Road. It has the perfect mix of off-road features, modern amenities, and a reasonable price. The cheaper TRD Sport isn’t quite as well-equipped and comes at a similar starting price, making it inferior. Additionally, the upgraded TRD Pro model is too much for most people. Only hardcore off-roaders should pay all the extra cash for the TRD Pro model’s exclusive features.

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Section Editor - SUVs

Tim Harding

Having spent half a decade managing the reconditioning and marketing processes for upwards of 400 vehicles monthly, Tim is no stranger to the automotive industry. He has a deep understanding of the many different types of vehicles on the road today and brings to the table valuable insight into the industry itself.

Tim earned an Associate’s in English and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a Marketing specialization from Ashford University. Tim joined MotorBiscuit as an Autos Writer in 2021, and his work can also be seen at Gamepur, Overtime Heroics, and Pro Game Guides.

Tim is most inspired by the constantly changing automotive industry. He looks forward to a future when cars, particularly electric vehicles, look and operate completely differently than they do today. Tim’s content draws on this inspiration while also providing MotorBiscuit readers with useful consumer advice.