Best Trim to Buy to Start a Build

I am new here, so this is my first thread post out of hopefully many more to come. I've searched for this topic and couldn't find anything. So if this topic has already been discussed in a previous thread, I apologize.

To keep things short, I just graduated college and I've had my mind set on getting a Tacoma for a while now. A Tacoma would be a very practical vehicle to have for both my job and my hobbies. My friend just recently bought a 2020 TRD Off-Road 4Runner and is beginning an overland build and it got me very interested in starting my own overland build on a Tacoma.

Being that I don't yet have a Tacoma, I'm wanting to know what the most optimal trim would be to start an overland build. The SR5 is the most affordable trim, but is lacking in options such as the terrain selection and the locking rear differential. The TRD Off-Road is the middle tier that costs a little bit more, but has more options. And the TRD Pro is the top tier that is the most expensive, but has the most options.

Are these options worth the money if I am going to inevitably replace them in my overland build? e.g. the FOX coil-overs and shocks on the Pro that would be replaced with a whole new suspension system, or the color-match bumpers that would be replaced with off-road bumpers.

Obviously I have tons to learn, and I'm sure I will gain plenty of knowledge once I start to dive into the deep threads of this website. But basically this is what I'm asking: is it worth buying a trim that has more options when my intentions are to do a complete overland build? What trim is the best starting point in order to start an overland build?

 

A TRD off road probably has the most bang for your buck if you plan to mod it heavily. The factory rear locker is why I would say you should go for the OR instead of the SR5.

Welcome to the forum

 

Sounds like you answered your own question. Just buy a base model 4x4 if you're going to replace/customize everything to the way you want it. All the "premium" trim packages give you are more buttons to press.

 

Depends on what mods you're interested in and what you're going to do with it. Since you're looking at going expo, a TRD OR might be your best starting platform.

 

I'm with @boston23 , TRD Off Road is a great place to start.

 

You looking for an Auto or Manual? That will play a factor as well

 

The big question is if you're going to crawl it, thus needing a shorter wheel base, or whether you want a trail limo and thus going DCLB.

I LOVE having the long bed since I don't have to parallel park anywhere.

 

good point, if i did it again I'd probably get an OR ACLB instead of an SR5 DCSB
I honestly toy with the idea of trading it in...but that'd put me in more debt

 

I would go “previously owned”. Assuming the build will replace current: coilovers, rear shocks, life springs, wheels and tires.

Occasionally a built truck will come up for sale on TW.

 

The TRD OR will also tide you over for quite awhile, as it's very capable in stock form with it's rear locker (and other traction aids). That way you don't immediately have to dump gobs of money into the rig the second you buy it.

 

Welcome to the forum.

The 2016/ 2017 SR access cab 4x4 4cyl engine 5 speed MT is the best 3rd gen.

Good luck with your journey.

 

Agreed UNLESS you’re planning on doing gears, or you want certain features not offered in the SR5 like crawl control. If doing gears, just get front & rear lockers and be a big step ahead of even a Pro.

 

But best at WHAT?

 

Yeah if you like wiring your own fog lights and dont ever plan on running big tires

 

It comes down to Crawl control.

 

Welcome aboard I have an SR with the 2.7 and 5 spd.

 

Get the highest trim you’re willing to afford. I’m really happy with my OR with tech and premium, but sometimes I think I shoulda sucked it up and got the Pro

 

My everyday driver is a manual right now, so I would be fine with either or. Besides being able to select what gear I would be in, what other factors are there for A/M?

 

I'm not planning to do any extreme off-roading or crawling. I'd be using it to haul materials in an everyday setting and overlanding/light off-roading on the weekends. I'm looking at getting a DCSB or LB, haven't decided on that yet.

 

Check out the "show off your sleeping platform" thread, might make you sway toward the LB

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads...platform-drawer-storage-systems.424709/page-6