The 2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro arrived as a surprise, not just because it was a TRD Pro model, but because reviewing a truck felt like uncharted territory. Stepping away from typical car reviews and into the realm of full-size trucks presents a different set of expectations and a deeply knowledgeable audience. Truck enthusiasts delve into specifications like payload capacity and axle ratios with an intensity that demands precision and accuracy. Making a mistake with truck specs is a cardinal sin, inviting the wrath of fiercely brand-loyal communities – Ford, RAM, and Chevy fans are not to be trifled with. However, the Toyota Tundra occupies a unique space in this landscape, often seen as the underdog, which perhaps offers a bit more leniency in the review process. Moreover, this particular Tundra, the TRD Pro, is built for off-road adventures, shifting the focus from towing capacities to sandbox escapades. But the question remained: how to thoroughly review this beast in a suburban setting, far from rugged terrains? To truly understand its essence, an inspirational road trip was necessary, leading to a journey to Percé, a good ten hours away.
Serious Off-Road Credentials of the 2016 Tundra TRD Pro
2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro off-road performance
Before detailing the road trip experience, it’s crucial to understand what sets the 2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro apart from the standard model. The TRD Pro trim is not merely a cosmetic upgrade; it’s a substantial package of off-road performance enhancements developed by Toyota Racing Development. These upgrades equip the 2016 Toyota Tundra Truck to compete with rivals like the RAM Rebel, though it’s positioned slightly below the Ford SVT Raptor in the extreme off-road hierarchy. However, in a genuine off-road challenge, a TRD Pro Tundra could very well keep pace with a Raptor.
2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro suspension
The TRD Pro package is available for any V8-powered 4×4 2016 Toyota Tundra truck, in both Doublecab and Crewmax configurations. It adds a suite of robust all-terrain components to an already durable truck. Key modifications include TRD Bilstein shocks with external reservoirs, TRD-tuned front springs providing a 2-inch lift, TRD front skid plates for underbody protection, and specially tuned spring rates for improved off-road ride comfort. The truck rides on Michelin ORP tires mounted on distinctive black 18-inch TRD wheels. Finally, a TRD dual exhaust system gives the 2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro a powerful, race-truck-like sound when pushed hard.
2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro exterior styling
Aesthetically, the 2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro distinguishes itself with a blacked-out front grille featuring classic “TOYOTA” lettering, TRD Pro stamping on the bed’s quarter panels, and unique TRD shift knob and seats. These elements combine to create a tough, aggressive look, especially when paired with the Magnetic Grey Metallic paint, which further emphasizes the blacked-out trim.
Engine performance in the 2016 Toyota Tundra truck remains unchanged, but the 5.7L iForce V8 is already a potent powerplant. Its 32-valve design delivers smooth, linear power across the rev range, with ample low-end torque. Producing 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque, this engine propels the hefty 2600 kg truck to 100 km/h in around 6.3 seconds – comparable to a mid-size sports sedan.
2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro engine bay
For practical purposes, the 2016 Toyota Tundra truck boasts a maximum towing capacity of 4762 kg and a payload capacity of 934 kg, slightly less than the Ford F-150 in top configurations. For the 2016 model year, notable upgrades included an integrated trailer brake controller and a larger 142-liter fuel tank, the biggest in its class. This larger tank is a welcome addition, especially given the Tundra’s thirst for fuel.
Road Trip Performance and Fuel Consumption
2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro on the road
The decision to drive the 2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro to Percé, while seemingly illogical due to fuel economy concerns, became a journey of discovery. The Tundra, at best, achieves 14.5L/100 km on the highway, and that’s with restrained throttle inputs, resisting the temptation to constantly hear the engine’s roar. A transmission with more gears, like those in competitors’ trucks, might improve fuel efficiency. However, the 2016 Toyota Tundra truck still utilizes the same 6-speed automatic transmission from its 2007 release.
Despite its age, the 6-speed transmission is smooth, reminiscent of a Camry’s refined gear changes. However, the 5.7L engine’s eagerness to rev and access its power band meant the transmission sometimes downshifted unnecessarily, even on slight inclines. Compared to modern 8-speed transmissions, this older unit feels less sophisticated.
2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro interior detail
As the miles accumulated, the rationale behind taking the 2016 Toyota Tundra truck to a remote Quebec village solidified. The Gaspésie region, unlike pothole-ridden Montreal, is truck country. Modified Ford, RAM, Super Duty, and Chevy trucks, often with oversized tires and off-road gear, are common sights. Surprisingly, the TRD Pro Tundra garnered considerable attention, even towering over many of these customized trucks. This was notable, considering the TRD Pro is a factory-tuned vehicle with a manufacturer’s warranty.
2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro on coastal road
For long journeys, the 2016 Toyota Tundra truck excels as a road trip vehicle. The cabin is spacious, more so than many mid-size sedans, and the leather seats offer excellent comfort and support for extended drives. The interior design is straightforward and functional, though not luxurious. The large HVAC controls are user-friendly, even with gloves, a practical touch. However, the interior’s age is apparent, with lower-grade materials and hard plastics similar to a Corolla in places. In this truck segment, the interior quality is somewhat lacking. On the positive side, the test model was refreshingly free of unnecessary electronic gadgets, even lacking a proximity key fob, now standard in vehicles like the Honda Fit. The inclusion of a backup camera and parking sensors, however, proved invaluable for maneuvering the large truck. Overall, the interior is business-like and unfussy, which has its own appeal.
2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro bed space
Upon reaching Percé, the 6.5-foot bed of the 2016 Toyota Tundra truck served as an impromptu hotel room for the night. The Doublecab model tested features the second-longest bed option. Unlike some American competitors, bed length in the Tundra is tied to cabin configuration. The Crewmax with full-size rear doors comes with a shorter 5.5-foot bed, while the regular cab offers the longest 8-foot bed. The 6.5-foot bed was sufficient to comfortably accommodate a full-size adult for sleeping. Lying in the Tundra’s bed, listening to the ocean waves, a realization dawned: the 2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro is not just a great long-distance family vehicle, but also a surprisingly comfortable RV for a night. More details about the road trip, including photos, are available in the author’s Opposite Lock column.
Off-Road Capabilities: Truly Impressive
2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro off-roading in sand pit
The crucial question is, of course, about the 2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro’s off-road performance. The answer is a resounding yes. After the Percé trip, the Tundra was taken to an abandoned sandpit in the Eastern Townships, a playground for dirt bikers and ATV enthusiasts. This area features steep inclines, deep sand, aggressive banks, and sudden drops, providing a challenging off-road environment. Here, the TRD-tuned suspension truly shined. Similar to the aerodynamics of a Formula 1 car, the suspension performs best at speed, which initially felt unnerving, hesitant to push the truck too hard.
2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro climbing sand dune
As confidence grew, the 2016 Toyota Tundra truck eagerly absorbed more punishment. Holes, obstacles, and elevation changes were handled effortlessly. The suspension maintained stability, delivering a surprisingly smooth and comfortable ride even during aggressive off-road driving. TRD’s racing expertise is evident in the finely tuned suspension, performing exceptionally well both on and off-road. Engaging 4×4-high, disengaging traction control, selecting ‘S’ mode for the transmission’s sportiest shift pattern, and applying throttle proved to be the formula for conquering almost any obstacle. Only once did the front shocks feel like they bottomed out, but the skid plates effectively protected critical components.
2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro side view off-road
The 2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro is truly remarkable. One day it’s effortlessly navigating challenging off-road terrain designed for specialized vehicles, and the next it’s cruising comfortably on highway 20. Sitting in the air-conditioned cabin, with the massive Michelin off-road tires consistently finding traction, a thought emerged: the 2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro isn’t just a great family vehicle for long trips and a makeshift RV; it’s also the ideal escape vehicle for a zombie apocalypse. Imagine mounting machine guns on the roof – invincibility guaranteed!
2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro rear view
This reflects the core Toyota promise: to deliver robust, reliable vehicles that endure, regardless of abuse. Throughout the test drive, the 2016 Toyota Tundra truck inspired unwavering confidence in its reliability, displaying no weaknesses. Like all Toyota products, from the Prius to the Lexus GS F-Sport, the Tundra conveys a sense of lasting durability.
The price for this off-road-ready, yet fuel-hungry, giant? As tested, the 2016 Tundra TRD Pro costs $57,000. The Crewmax version is priced at $59,500. Expensive? Perhaps. However, unlike the Ford SVT Raptor, which compromises everyday usability for extreme off-road capability, the TRD Pro remains fundamentally a regular Tundra. It can still haul materials, tow boats, and handle typical truck duties, making it a more versatile proposition.
2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro parked
In conclusion, while a truck like the 2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro might be considered excessive for many, it’s undeniably appealing. It’s a high-end toy for those who can afford it. But Toyota’s commitment to building such vehicles is commendable. The 2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro is a testament to Toyota’s playful side and a clear indication that the off-road truck competition is intensifying, reaching new levels of capability. Now, the only question is, when will Ford hand over the keys to a Raptor for a test drive?
Clavey’s Verdict
Review of the 2016 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro by William Clavey
7.8 / 10 Full Size Pick-up Trucks
+ + Impressive offroad credentials for the price. + TRD Pro adds aesthetic edge over standard Tundra. + iForce V8 engine remains among smoothest and most powerful in the segment.
– – Automatic transmission could use two extra gears. – Interior is starting to show its age. – Not the most fuel efficient vehicle.
Clavey’s Corner is located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Prices and trim levels discussed in this article reflect the Canadian car market.
Special thanks: Toyota Canada
Photography: Appearance
Contact the author: [email protected]
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