2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Wins Mid-Size Truck Of Texas

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2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro

2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Wins Mid Size Truck of Texas At TAWA Texas Truck Rodeo

Texas Auto Writers members were the first automotive media to get their hands on the wheel of the all new 2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro this week. On a ranch just outside of Austin, the new Tacoma was a popular truck on the level three off road course.

The 2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro demonstrated its off-road prowess at the 2016 Texas Auto Writers Association’s (TAWA) Texas Truck Rodeo, winning the Mid-size Pickup Truck of Texas award.

After two days of demanding on and off-road driving at Longhorn River Ranch in Dripping Springs, Texas, journalists voted for their favorite pickup trucks, SUVs and CUVs in multiple categories. This year, more than 70 media members attended the event to test drive 82 vehicles from the world’s top truck and SUV manufacturers.

“As America’s best-selling mid-size pickup for ten years running, the recognition as Mid-size Pickup Truck of Texas confirms our vision of producing a truck that can tackle any off-road challenge,” said Mike Sweers, Tacoma chief engineer. “Toyota’s commitment to the new Tacoma TRD Pro was focused on meeting the needs of adventure-seekers where roads fear to tread, and we have proven that today.”

2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro Born In Texas

2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro
Photo by Tim Esterdahl from PickUpTrucktalk.com

Assembled at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas (TMMTX) in San Antonio, the 2017 Tacoma TRD Pro impressed TAWA members with its suspension, exhaust enhancements and off-road technology. The Tacoma TRD Pro’s front springs with a 1-inch lift, rear suspension with progressive-rate off-road leaf spring and 16-inch TRD black alloy wheels with Goodyear Wrangler® All-Terrain Kevlar®-reinforced tires helped to navigate the off-road course at the event.

With a heritage-inspired TOYOTA grille and TRD Pro badge on its front door with diamond-pattern knurled finish, the 2017 Tacoma TRD Pro’s exterior it stands out in the crowd. From behind, the truck features a black TRD Pro, 4×4 rear tailgate badging and taillights with black bezels and TRD cat-black stainless steel exhaust system. The TRD Pro grade’s look is topped off with a TRD Pro badge on the front door with a diamond-pattern knurled finish.

The 2017 Tacoma TRD Pro produces 278 horsepower and includes a V6 with a segment-first Atkinson Cycle engine. For those traveling off the beaten path, the Tacoma’s TRD Pro grade offers a Crawl Control system, Multi-Terrain Select, Locking Rear Differential, Hill Start Assist Control and Active Traction Control, which takes over the truck’s acceleration and braking, allowing drivers to focus on navigating over tough terrain.

With Tacoma’s Chief Engineer Mike Sweers riding shotgun, I took the mid-size pickup off-roading to experience its toughness firsthand. We tackled moguls, climbed rocks, descended hills and more, all in two-wheel drive. Sweers’ grinned when he told me, “the Tacoma is one of the few trucks here capable of handling this course without using four wheel drive.And guys, in my opinion, the mid-size Truck of Texas was begging for more.

Its tough, its capable and it just earned its first trophy. Congratulations Toyota, the 2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro is a winner!

 

 

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Kristin Barclay
Kristin Barclay graduated from the University of South Carolina with a major in Journalism and Advertising. Throughout her career, Kristin has demonstrated a passion for storytelling and a commitment to providing accurate, timely, and informative news coverage. She has a deep understanding of the issues and concerns facing local communities and has earned a reputation as a trusted source for reliable news and information. In addition to her work as an editor and journalist, Kristin is also a skilled writer and has written articles on a wide range of topics, including politics, business, education, and culture. She has a keen eye for detail and a talent for crafting compelling stories that engage and inform readers. Kristin is also an active member of the community and has volunteered her time and resources to numerous organizations and causes. She believes in the importance of giving back and making a positive impact on the world around us. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Kristin Barclay is also a passionate advocate for local journalism and the role it plays in keeping communities informed and engaged. She believes strongly in the importance of supporting local news outlets and is dedicated to ensuring that quality journalism remains a vital part of our society. Outside of work, Kristin enjoys traveling both for business and pleasure. She loves exploring new places, meeting new people, and experiencing different cultures. Whether she's on a business trip or a vacation, Kristin is always eager to discover what makes each place unique and special. Kristin's passions include boots, bourbon, dogs and college football. She is a self-proclaimed boot aficionado and has an impressive collection of cowboy boots that she wears with pride. She also enjoys sipping on a good bourbon and spending time with her husband and beloved border collies. Last but certainly not least, Kristin is the proud mother of two children who bring joy and meaning to her life. She is deeply committed to being a loving and supportive parent, and her children are her greatest source of inspiration and motivation