It seemed fitting to feature a Tacoma as I embark on another 8-month international trip in my decrepit 1986 Volkswagen T3 Syncro. I’ve often made the point that the best overland vehicles are those that you can count on to provide the maximum experience. In other words, a rig like mine is charismatic but costs a lot to run and often breaks down, which eats into both my travel time and budget. Alternatively, rigs like the Tacoma provide class-leading build quality, reliability, and capability, which ensures you can focus more on the journey than the vehicle. In addition, I can’t tell you how stressful it is driving a classic vehicle when you know that at any time, it could leave you stranded. In fact, I often catch myself gripping my steering wheel with white knuckles and grinding my teeth on particularly challenging routes where I’m nervous about a huge mechanical problem. In a Tacoma, you can just enjoy the view knowing that you’re driving a vehicle that’s statistically proven to be one of the most reliable on the market, and that’s a great feeling. It’s, therefore, the most desirable platform on our forum, with recent examples including this 2017 with a Four Wheel Campers Project M camper, a 2021 with an RSI Smart Cap, and a 2018 with a GFC V1. It’s also a favorite with the Expedition Portal team and was subsequently chosen as an Overland Journal project vehicle. There’s no shortage of aftermarket support for this truck, which means it can be completely tailored to its owner’s requirements. Consequently, despite their immense popularity, no two are the same, as demonstrated by the unique builds from Badass Brunette, ATerra camper, The Wander Taco, and Free Range Camper. Today’s 2021 offering features a long list of premium modifications and is topped with an RSI Smartcap Evo.
From the Seller:
“Had this rig built out late last year and have yet to take it out. It has been off-road 0 times. My work situation has changed, and I will not be able to use the truck to commute the way I need to and will not be able to have the 2023 adventures that I planned. Everything you see was purchased new, and I have receipts. The truck was about $50,000 new, purchased by me. I’ve put in over $35,000 in parts and had everything professionally installed. The truck has all the packages from Toyota, including LED lighting and premium sound. This truck is pretty turnkey, but if you want to make any changes, I work closely with VMI Offroad, and I’m sure they’d do whatever you require.”
2021 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road
The Tacoma is fitted with a 3.5-liter motor that produces 278 horsepower, 265 pound-feet of torque, and returns a combined 20 mpg. A bulletproof motor and drivetrain are matched with class-leading all-terrain performance thanks to 4WD, skid plates, high and low range, rear locking differential, crawl control, multi-terrain select, stability control, and more. Inside, the TRD Off-Road showcases a well-equipped interior with driver comforts that include:
- Backup camera
- Dual-zone climate control
- Active cruise control
- Premium audio
- Infotainment system with navigation
Distinguishing Features
- RCX Pro Stage suspension kit and Sumo springs
- Icon Rebound Pro wheels with Mickey Thompson Baja Boss A/T tires
- RCX Pro fender flares and hybrid front winch bumper
- iKamper Skycamp 2.0 rooftop tent
- RSI Smartcap Evo
- Prinsu cab rack
This 2021 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road with an RSI Smartcap EVO is listed for $75,000 and is currently located in Bellingham, Washington State. Check the full vehicle specifications via the original Expedition Portal forum post here.
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