Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the 2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport. This truck isn't just about looks; it's packed with some serious engineering and features. If you're considering buying one or just curious about what makes it tick, you're in the right place. We'll break down everything from the engine and performance to the interior comforts and tech.

Engine and Performance

The heart of the 2017 Tacoma TRD Sport is its robust engine. Under the hood, you'll typically find a 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine is designed to deliver a great balance of power and efficiency, making it suitable for both daily driving and more demanding tasks. The V6 engine churns out around 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. What does this mean for you? It means you've got enough grunt to haul cargo, tackle off-road trails, and merge confidently onto the highway.

One of the standout features is the direct injection system. This technology optimizes fuel delivery, ensuring that each drop of fuel is used efficiently. As a result, you get better fuel economy and reduced emissions. The engine also features variable valve timing, which adjusts the timing of the intake and exhaust valves based on driving conditions. This further enhances both power and efficiency.

The 2017 Tacoma TRD Sport comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission. This transmission provides smooth and precise gear changes, whether you're cruising on the open road or navigating city streets. For those who prefer a more engaging driving experience, a six-speed manual transmission is also available. The manual transmission gives you complete control over the gear selection, allowing you to maximize the engine's performance.

When it comes to off-road capability, the TRD Sport doesn't disappoint. It features a sport-tuned suspension that provides a comfortable ride on paved roads while still being able to handle rough terrain. The suspension is designed to absorb bumps and vibrations, keeping you planted and in control. While it may not have all the extreme off-road features of the TRD Off-Road model, the TRD Sport still offers plenty of capability for light to moderate off-road adventures. It’s really the perfect blend for someone who spends most of their time on the road but wants the option to explore when the opportunity arises.

Towing Capacity

If you're planning on using your truck for towing, the 2017 Tacoma TRD Sport has you covered. When properly equipped, it can tow up to 6,800 pounds. This means you can easily haul a small boat, a camper, or a trailer with all your gear. The truck also comes with a tow package that includes a Class IV hitch receiver, trailer sway control, and transmission cooler. These features work together to ensure that you can tow safely and confidently. The trailer sway control system detects and corrects any unwanted movement of the trailer, while the transmission cooler helps prevent overheating when towing heavy loads.

Fuel Economy

Let's talk about fuel economy. The 2017 Tacoma TRD Sport gets respectable gas mileage for a mid-size truck. With the V6 engine and automatic transmission, you can expect to get around 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. Of course, your actual fuel economy may vary depending on your driving habits and the conditions you're driving in. If you opt for the manual transmission, the fuel economy is slightly lower, but the added control and engagement may be worth it for some drivers. Keep in mind that using the truck for towing or hauling heavy loads will also impact fuel economy.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the 2017 Tacoma TRD Sport, you'll find a cabin that's both functional and comfortable. The seats are designed to provide ample support, even on long drives. The TRD Sport also comes with unique interior accents, such as sport seats with TRD logos and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. These details add a touch of sportiness to the cabin.

The 2017 Tacoma TRD Sport is equipped with a variety of tech features to keep you connected and entertained on the road. The centerpiece of the infotainment system is a 7-inch touchscreen display. This screen is used to control the audio system, navigation, and other vehicle functions. The system is easy to use and responds quickly to inputs. It also includes features like Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to stream music and make hands-free phone calls. Smartphone integration is another key feature, with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you can seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the truck's infotainment system. This allows you to access your favorite apps, make calls, send messages, and get directions using the touchscreen display or voice commands. The TRD Sport also comes with a premium JBL audio system. This system delivers clear and powerful sound, making your favorite music sound even better. The JBL system includes multiple speakers and a subwoofer, providing a rich and immersive listening experience.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, the 2017 Tacoma TRD Sport is equipped with a comprehensive suite of features to protect you and your passengers. It includes standard safety features such as anti-lock brakes, stability control, and traction control. These systems work together to help you maintain control of the truck in challenging driving conditions. The truck also comes with a rearview camera, which makes it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. The rearview camera displays a live video feed of the area behind the truck on the touchscreen display.

In addition to the standard safety features, the TRD Sport also offers advanced safety technologies. It's got a blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert, which helps you avoid collisions by alerting you to vehicles in your blind spots. The rear cross-traffic alert system warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking space. These systems provide an extra layer of protection, helping you stay safe on the road. The 2017 Tacoma TRD Sport also earns high marks in crash tests, providing added peace of mind.

Exterior and Design

The 2017 Tacoma TRD Sport stands out with its sporty and aggressive exterior design. It features a unique front grille, hood scoop, and body-colored accents that set it apart from other Tacoma models. The hood scoop isn't just for looks; it actually helps to improve airflow to the engine. The truck also comes with alloy wheels and fog lights, which add to its overall appearance. The alloy wheels not only look great but are also lightweight, which can improve fuel economy and handling.

The TRD Sport is available in a variety of colors, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your style. Some of the popular color options include Barcelona Red Metallic, Quicksand, and Cement. The truck also comes with a bed liner, which helps to protect the bed from scratches and dents. The bed liner is a practical feature that can help to keep your truck looking its best for years to come.

Key Exterior Features

• Sport-tuned suspension
• Hood scoop
• Body-colored accents
• Alloy wheels
• Fog lights

These features not only enhance the truck's appearance but also improve its performance and functionality. The sport-tuned suspension provides a more comfortable ride, while the hood scoop helps to improve engine airflow. The body-colored accents give the truck a more cohesive and refined look, while the alloy wheels and fog lights add to its sporty appeal.

Overall Impression

The 2017 Tacoma TRD Sport is a well-rounded mid-size truck that offers a great balance of performance, comfort, and technology. It's a great choice for anyone who wants a truck that can handle both daily driving and weekend adventures. The TRD Sport's robust engine, sporty suspension, and advanced features make it a standout in its class. The interior is comfortable and well-equipped, with plenty of tech features to keep you connected and entertained on the road. The exterior design is sporty and aggressive, giving the truck a unique and eye-catching appearance.

Compared to other trims, the TRD Sport offers a sweet spot. It gives you more than the base models without going all-in on the off-road focus of the TRD Off-Road. It’s a truck that looks great in the city but is still ready to get its tires dirty when you need it to.

In conclusion, the 2017 Tacoma TRD Sport is a fantastic truck that offers a lot to like. Whether you're looking for a daily driver, a weekend warrior, or a capable workhorse, the TRD Sport is definitely worth considering. Its combination of performance, comfort, and technology make it a top contender in the mid-size truck segment. So, if you're in the market for a new truck, be sure to give the 2017 Tacoma TRD Sport a closer look. You might just find that it's the perfect truck for you.