2018 Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4: Price & Review

by Alex Braham 42 views

Hey guys! Are you thinking about getting a 2018 Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4? You've come to the right place! Let’s dive into what makes this truck awesome, what you can expect to pay, and whether it’s the right choice for you. We'll cover everything from performance and features to pricing and potential alternatives. So buckle up, and let's get started!

Overview of the 2018 Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4

First off, the 2018 Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4 is not just your average pickup truck. It's designed for those who want a blend of everyday practicality and off-road capability. The TRD (Toyota Racing Development) Sport trim adds a sporty aesthetic and performance enhancements that set it apart from the base models. This truck is perfect for weekend warriors, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who needs a reliable vehicle that can handle tough conditions.

Key Features

  • Engine: Typically equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering around 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. This provides ample power for both on-road driving and tackling trails.
  • 4x4 System: A robust four-wheel-drive system ensures that you can confidently navigate various terrains, from rocky paths to snowy roads. It’s electronically controlled, making it easy to switch between 2WD and 4WD modes.
  • Sport-Tuned Suspension: The TRD Sport comes with a sport-tuned suspension that enhances handling and provides a smoother ride on paved roads. While it’s not as extreme as the TRD Off-Road suspension, it still offers improved performance over the standard Tacoma.
  • Exterior Styling: Unique to the TRD Sport are features like a color-keyed hood scoop, body-colored bumpers, and a sport-specific grille. These elements give the truck a more aggressive and stylish appearance.
  • Interior Comfort: Inside, you’ll find comfortable seating, an infotainment system with a touchscreen display, and various tech features like Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and available smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto).
  • Safety Features: Toyota prioritizes safety, so the 2018 Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4 includes features like Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), which includes pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams.

Why Choose the 2018 Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4?

The 2018 Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4 is a popular choice for several reasons:

  • Reliability: Toyota is renowned for its reliability, and the Tacoma is no exception. It’s a truck that’s built to last, with a reputation for holding its value over time.
  • Off-Road Capability: While it’s not the most hardcore off-roader in the Tacoma lineup (that title belongs to the TRD Off-Road), the TRD Sport still offers impressive capability for tackling moderate trails and rough terrain.
  • Versatility: It’s equally at home on the pavement as it is on the trails. Whether you’re commuting to work, hauling gear, or exploring the great outdoors, the Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4 can handle it all.
  • Resale Value: Tacomas are known for their excellent resale value. If you decide to sell it down the road, you can expect to get a good return on your investment.

What’s the Price of a 2018 Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4?

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks – the price. The cost of a 2018 Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4 can vary quite a bit depending on several factors:

Factors Affecting the Price

  • Condition: Obviously, the condition of the truck plays a significant role. A well-maintained Tacoma with low mileage will command a higher price than one with more wear and tear.
  • Mileage: Lower mileage generally translates to a higher price. Trucks with fewer miles are typically seen as having more life left in them.
  • Location: Prices can vary by region due to differences in demand, local market conditions, and transportation costs.
  • Options and Packages: Additional features and packages, such as premium audio systems, sunroofs, and upgraded interior options, can increase the price.
  • Private Seller vs. Dealership: You might find a better deal from a private seller, but dealerships often offer warranties and financing options that can provide peace of mind.

General Price Range

As a general estimate, you can expect to find a 2018 Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4 priced anywhere from $28,000 to $38,000. Keep in mind that this is just a rough estimate, and prices can fluctuate. To get a more accurate idea, it’s a good idea to check online marketplaces like Kelley Blue Book (KBB), Edmunds, and local listings.

Tips for Getting the Best Deal

  • Do Your Research: Before you start shopping, research the market value of similar trucks in your area. This will give you a good baseline for negotiating.
  • Get Pre-Approved for Financing: Knowing your budget and getting pre-approved for a loan can give you more leverage when negotiating with a dealer.
  • Inspect the Truck Thoroughly: Whether you’re buying from a private seller or a dealership, take the time to inspect the truck carefully. Look for any signs of damage, wear and tear, or mechanical issues.
  • Take a Test Drive: Always take the truck for a test drive to get a feel for how it handles and to identify any potential problems.
  • Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price. Dealers and private sellers often have some wiggle room, so it’s worth trying to get a better deal.

Performance and Handling

The 2018 Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4 offers a balanced driving experience, blending on-road comfort with off-road capability. Here’s a closer look at its performance and handling characteristics:

Engine and Transmission

  • Engine: The 3.5-liter V6 engine provides plenty of power for most situations. It delivers a good balance of horsepower and torque, making it suitable for both daily driving and more demanding tasks like towing and hauling.
  • Transmission: You typically have a choice between a six-speed manual transmission and a six-speed automatic transmission. The manual transmission is favored by enthusiasts who enjoy having more control, while the automatic transmission offers convenience and ease of use.

On-Road Performance

On the road, the Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4 offers a comfortable and composed ride. The sport-tuned suspension helps to reduce body roll in corners, providing a more confident driving experience. The steering is responsive, and the brakes offer good stopping power.

Off-Road Performance

While it’s not as specialized for off-roading as the TRD Off-Road model, the TRD Sport still holds its own on the trails. The four-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, and the higher ground clearance allows you to navigate over obstacles with ease. The electronic locking rear differential (available on some models) can further enhance traction in challenging conditions.

Driving Experience

Overall, the 2018 Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4 offers a versatile and enjoyable driving experience. It’s equally at home on the highway as it is on a dirt road. The engine provides plenty of power, the suspension is well-tuned, and the four-wheel-drive system gives you the confidence to tackle a variety of terrains.

Interior and Technology

The interior of the 2018 Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4 is designed to be both functional and comfortable. While it’s not the most luxurious truck on the market, it offers a good balance of features and practicality.

Interior Features

  • Seating: The seats are comfortable and supportive, making them suitable for long drives. The TRD Sport typically comes with cloth upholstery, but leather-trimmed seats may be available as an option.
  • Infotainment System: The infotainment system features a touchscreen display that provides access to navigation, audio controls, and smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on some models). The system is generally user-friendly and responsive.
  • Technology Features: Other available tech features include Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, a rearview camera, and a premium JBL audio system.

Comfort and Convenience

The Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4 offers a range of comfort and convenience features, such as automatic climate control, power windows and locks, and keyless entry. These features make the truck more enjoyable to drive and live with on a daily basis.

Cabin Space

The cabin offers adequate space for both front and rear passengers. However, the rear seats can be a bit cramped for taller adults on longer trips. The Tacoma is available in both Access Cab and Double Cab configurations, with the Double Cab offering more rear-seat legroom.

Potential Issues and Things to Consider

Before you make a purchase, it’s important to be aware of some potential issues and things to consider with the 2018 Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4:

Potential Issues

  • Fuel Economy: The Tacoma’s fuel economy is not the best in its class. The V6 engine can be thirsty, especially when driving in four-wheel-drive mode or towing heavy loads.
  • Transmission Issues: Some owners have reported issues with the automatic transmission, such as hesitant shifting or a feeling of “gear hunting.”
  • Rear Drum Brakes: Unlike some of its competitors, the Tacoma uses drum brakes on the rear wheels. While they are adequate for most situations, they may not offer the same level of performance as disc brakes.

Things to Consider

  • Ride Quality: The ride quality can be a bit stiff, especially on rough roads. This is due to the truck’s off-road-oriented suspension.
  • Interior Design: The interior design is functional but not particularly stylish. Some may find it to be a bit dated compared to more modern trucks.
  • Towing Capacity: While the Tacoma is capable of towing, its towing capacity is not as high as some of its competitors. Be sure to check the truck’s specifications to ensure that it can handle your towing needs.

Alternatives to the 2018 Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4

If the 2018 Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4 isn’t quite the right fit for you, here are some alternatives to consider:

  • Chevrolet Colorado: The Colorado offers a comfortable ride, a refined interior, and a choice of engines, including a diesel option.
  • GMC Canyon: The Canyon is mechanically similar to the Colorado but offers a more upscale interior and styling.
  • Ford Ranger: The Ranger is a strong contender in the mid-size truck segment, offering a powerful engine and a range of features.
  • Nissan Frontier: The Frontier is a more affordable option that still offers good off-road capability.

Conclusion

So, is the 2018 Tacoma TRD Sport 4x4 a good buy? Absolutely, if you're looking for a reliable, versatile, and capable mid-size truck with a sporty edge. Its blend of on-road comfort and off-road prowess makes it a great choice for a wide range of drivers. Just be sure to do your homework, inspect the truck thoroughly, and negotiate the best possible price. Happy truck hunting, guys!