The fourth-generation Tacoma rewrote the midsize pickup playbook in 2024, and the 2025 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport keeps that momentum going. Think sharper styling, a stronger frame, a smoother ride, and a turbocharged 4-cylinder that makes the old V6 feel like yesterday’s news. If you like a street-savvy Tacoma with real capability and you’re one of the folks who still wants a manual the TRD Sport should be on your shortlist.
Design That Looks Fast Standing Still
TRD Sport is the “athletic” member of the Tacoma family. It leans into a more on-road personality without ditching truck fundamentals.
- Clean, chiseled bodywork with a sport-specific grille, color-keyed trim, and an available hood scoop for that classic TRD vibe.
- Standard 18-inch alloys wrapped in street-friendly tires for confident cornering and a planted stance.
- A sport-tuned suspension paired with the Tacoma’s TNGA-F boxed steel ladder frame for a ride that’s calmer and more controlled than before.
- Multi-link coil-spring rear suspension on TRD Sport trims for improved composure over bumps versus old-school leaf springs.
- Double Cab layout with a 5-foot bed standard; a 6-foot bed may be available depending on configuration.
- Bed smarts include a composite bed, integrated tie-down points, and available 120V AC power to keep tools and tailgates powered.
Turbocharged i-FORCE Power: Punchy and Efficient
Toyota swapped out the old V6 for a modern 2.4-liter turbo four called i-FORCE. The results are exactly what most buyers wanted: more torque, better response, and improved efficiency.
- i-FORCE 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder
- With the 8-speed automatic: around 278 hp and 317 lb-ft
- With the 6-speed manual: around 270 hp and 310 lb-ft
- Broad torque curve for quick around-town punch and easy highway merges
- Available 4×2 or 4×4 depending on configuration
Some Tacoma trims offer the i-FORCE MAX hybrid system, but TRD Sport primarily focuses on the turbo gas engine. Availability can vary by region and model year.
The Manual Transmission Experience
Yes, you can still get a Tacoma with a stick. On TRD Sport, the 6-speed iMT (intelligent manual transmission) keeps the driver engaged without punishing you in daily traffic.
- Rev-matching logic helps smooth downshifts
- Calibrated anti-stall behavior makes low-speed crawling less stressful
- Well-spaced gearing for everyday drivability
- 4×4 versions pair the manual with a traditional two-speed transfer case for confident traction
If you prefer a set-it-and-forget-it vibe, the 8-speed automatic complements the turbo’s torque with crisp shifts and relaxed cruising.
On-Road Character and Everyday Capability
TRD Sport is tuned for pavement confidence, daily comfort, and weekend versatility.
- Sport-tuned damper calibration provides flatter cornering and better body control than work-focused trims
- Multi-link rear suspension improves ride quality and cabin calm over broken pavement
- Strong low-end torque makes the Tacoma feel lively even with a bed full of gear
Towing and hauling remain central to Tacoma’s mission. When properly equipped, the Tacoma lineup can tow up to 6,500 pounds with the i-FORCE automatic; manual-equipped models may be rated slightly lower. Payload varies by configuration but remains competitive for the class.
Tech and Safety That Feel Fresh
The latest Tacoma cabin blends tough-truck practicality with genuinely modern tech.
- Toyota Audio Multimedia with an 8-inch touchscreen standard; a larger 14-inch screen is available on many builds
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus wireless charging on select trims
- Multiple USB-C ports to keep devices topped up
- Available digital instrument cluster and premium audio
Every Tacoma gets Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including features like Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, and Proactive Driving Assist. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are widely available.
Key Specs at a Glance
| Item | 2025 Tacoma TRD Sport (expected carryover) |
|---|---|
| Platform | TNGA-F boxed steel ladder frame |
| Engine | 2.4L i-FORCE turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| Output (8-speed automatic) | About 278 hp / 317 lb-ft |
| Output (6-speed manual) | About 270 hp / 310 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | 4×2 or 4×4 (varies by configuration) |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-link coil-spring (TRD Sport) |
| Wheels/Tires | 18-inch alloy wheels |
| Bed | 5-foot standard; 6-foot availability varies |
| Towing | Up to 6,500 lb when properly equipped (automatic); manual typically slightly lower |
| Payload | Configuration-dependent; competitive within midsize class |
| Infotainment | 8-inch standard; available 14-inch |
| Safety | Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 standard |
Pricing and Value
Official 2025 pricing may see modest year-over-year adjustments as is common across the industry. Based on the 2024 TRD Sport and typical annual changes, here’s a grounded look at what to expect. Actual prices will vary by region, drivetrain, options, and destination charges.
| Configuration | 2024 MSRP ballpark | 2025 outlook (estimate) |
|---|---|---|
| TRD Sport 4×2 Automatic | Around mid-to-high $39,000s | Low $40,000s |
| TRD Sport 4×4 Automatic | Low $40,000s | Low-to-mid $40,000s |
| TRD Sport 4×4 6-speed Manual | Around low $41,000s | Low-to-mid $40,000s |
Why the TRD Sport makes sense:
- You want the Tacoma’s new-frame toughness and coil-spring ride without going full off-road
- You like sharper handling and street-friendly tires
- You’re drawn to the manual option or want a smooth 8-speed automatic paired with turbo torque
- You value Toyota’s resale strength and large ecosystem of accessories
Who Should Buy the TRD Sport?
Choose TRD Sport if your daily miles are mostly pavement and you want a Tacoma that feels composed in traffic, comfortable on commutes, and still ready for bikes, boards, and weekend projects. If your life involves frequent rock gardens and rutted trails, the TRD Off-Road or TRD Pro will suit you better. If you want luxury-like comfort and the most tech, a Limited could be your lane. But for a just-right balance of style, control, and capability plus that rare manual option the TRD Sport hits a sweet spot.
FAQs
- Is the manual transmission really available on the 2025 Tacoma TRD Sport?
Yes, the TRD Sport continues to offer a 6-speed manual on select 4×4 configurations. Availability can vary by region and build. - How does the turbo 2.4L compare to the old V6?
It delivers more torque, especially down low, which makes the truck feel stronger in everyday driving while also improving efficiency. - Can the TRD Sport tow and haul like other Tacomas?
Absolutely. Properly equipped automatic models can tow up to 6,500 pounds. Payload is configuration-dependent, and the TRD Sport remains competitive within the class. - What’s the fuel economy like?
EPA figures can vary by drivetrain and equipment, but expect combined numbers in the low 20s for most TRD Sport builds, with the manual typically a touch lower than the automatic. - Does TRD Sport include locking differentials or hardcore off-road hardware?
TRD Sport focuses on street-oriented performance and comfort. For features like an electronic locking rear differential and specialized off-road tech, the TRD Off-Road or TRD Pro is a better fit.