The manual transmission is fading in the pickup world, but the 2025 Toyota Tacoma continues to stand out with its unique offering.
With the Jeep Gladiator transitioning to automatic-only for the 2025 model year, enthusiasts find themselves with just one option left in the manual transmission realm: the highly regarded Toyota Tacoma. Though manual transmission sales only represent 1-2% of overall vehicle sales in the U.S., this development adds to the charm of the Tacoma and its dedicated fan base.
What Makes the Toyota Tacoma Stand Out?
For buyers curious about the final price of the only manual pickup truck in America, let's explore the features, pricing, and add-ons that make the Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road an interesting choice. The base model starts at around $41,800, offering advanced off-road capabilities and a plethora of customization options that can push the price as high as $78,844 when fully loaded.
Key Specs of the 2025 Toyota Tacoma
- Base Trim Maximum Towing Capacity: 6,500 lbs
- Base Trim Engine: 2.4L Turbo Inline-4 Gas
- Base Trim Transmission Options: 6-Speed Manual, 8-Speed Automatic
- Base Trim Horsepower: 278 hp
- Base Trim Torque: 243 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm
- Fuel Economy: 20/26/23 MPG
- Basic Warranty: 36 Months/36,000 Miles
- Powertrain Warranty: 60 Months/60,000 Miles
For those who opt for the TRD Off-Road, many exciting features come standard that make it a popular pickup among adventure seekers.
TRD Off-Road Features and Benefits
The TRD Off-Road trim, priced at $41,800, boasts capabilities that resonate with off-road enthusiasts. Key features include:
- TRD Off-Road alloy wheels
- Color-keyed rear bumper
- LED bed lighting and fog lights
- Multi-terrain select
- Electronically controlled locking rear differential
- Class-IV towing hitch receiver with 7-pin/4-pin connector
- A digital meter with selectable gauge display screens
- Blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert
These features define the TRD Off-Road as a formidable vehicle for those who love to tackle rugged terrains.
Customizing Your Tacoma: Price Breakdown
The fun truly begins when looking at all the add-ons that can elevate the Tacoma into the ultimate off-road vehicle. A fully loaded 2025 Toyota Tacoma can include features and accessories totaling an impressive sum. Here’s how the customization can look:
- Supersonic Red exterior - $475
- TRD Off-Road Premium package - $8,940
- Stabilizer disconnect mechanism - $1,230
- RetraxPRO retractable hard tonneau cover - $2,249
- Phone cable charge package - $79
- Dashcam - $529
- Emergency assist kit - $89
- Black aluminum running board - $1,499
- Toyoguard Platinum - $699
- Paint protection film - $748
- All-weather floor mats - $349
- Center console safe - $499
- 17-inch all-terrain tire upgrade - $1,349
Additional options include a Moab package with a TRD lift kit and camping setup costing around $12,479 or a Toyota wireless trailer camera system priced at $1,550. Adding these accessories brings the starting cost of the TRD Off-Road to a staggering $78,844 after including a $1,495 destination fee.
Financing Insights for Buyers
Most drivers will seek financing options rather than paying the total amount upfront. Here's a hypothetical breakdown for financing a fully-loaded TRD Off-Road Tacoma:
- Sale Price: $78,844
- Loan Term: 60 months (5 years)
- Down Payment: $10,000
- Sales Tax: $4,730 (6%)
- Interest Rate: 5%
- Total Loan Amount: $77,574
- Monthly Payment: ~ $1,463
Ultimately, buyers will spend approximately $97,835 before fully owning the truck, with 12% representing interest expenses.
Is a Fully-Loaded Toyota Tacoma Worth It?
The pricing of a fully-loaded Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road raises questions about what features truly add value. While having countless accessories may be tempting, many may enjoy everything the TRD Off-Road offers straight from the dealer. For serious off-road performance, such as the TRD Off-Road's rugged suspension and features, the extra gear may feel like luxury rather than necessity.
As a manual pickup truck, the Tacoma fills a niche market, and for those dedicated to driving a manual, its value is irreplaceable. Whether heading off-road or simply driving around town, the Toyota Tacoma provides versatility and performance, making it an appealing choice for buyers.
With the 2025 model year, the manual transmission might become a novelty, but the Toyota Tacoma remains prepared to stand strong in a changing market.