Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport 2020: Top Mods & Upgrades
Hey Tacoma enthusiasts! Let's dive into the awesome world of modifying the 2020 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport. This truck is already fantastic, but with a few strategic upgrades, you can take its performance and appearance to the next level. Whether you're looking to enhance its off-road capabilities, improve its style, or simply add some personal touches, this guide will walk you through some of the best mods and upgrades available.
Suspension Upgrades
When it comes to suspension upgrades, the 2020 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport offers a solid foundation, but there's always room for improvement, especially if you plan on tackling tougher terrains or just want a more comfortable ride. One of the most popular upgrades is a lift kit. A lift kit not only enhances the truck's appearance but also provides additional ground clearance, allowing you to install larger tires and navigate obstacles more easily. Options range from simple leveling kits that raise the front of the truck to match the rear, to complete suspension systems that offer significant improvements in ride quality and off-road performance.
For those looking for a budget-friendly option, a leveling kit is a great starting point. These kits typically include spacers or coil spring preloaders that lift the front of the truck by a couple of inches. This simple modification eliminates the factory rake and gives the Tacoma a more aggressive stance. However, keep in mind that leveling kits primarily address aesthetics and may not significantly improve off-road performance or ride quality.
If you're serious about off-roading, consider investing in a complete suspension system. Brands like Old Man Emu (OME), Bilstein, and Fox offer comprehensive kits designed specifically for the Tacoma. These systems typically include new coil springs, shocks, and sometimes even new leaf springs for the rear. The benefits of a complete suspension system are numerous. You'll experience improved ride quality on and off the road, increased wheel travel for better articulation on uneven terrain, and enhanced control and stability at higher speeds. Moreover, these systems are engineered to work together, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.
Another important aspect of suspension upgrades is the choice of shocks. Upgrading your shocks can make a world of difference in how your Tacoma handles. Aftermarket shocks like Bilstein 5100s or Fox 2.0s offer superior damping compared to the factory shocks, which translates to better control and a more comfortable ride. These shocks are designed to handle a wider range of conditions and can be tuned to match your specific needs and driving style. Whether you're cruising down the highway or tackling rocky trails, upgraded shocks will provide a noticeable improvement in performance.
Wheel and Tire Upgrades
Wheels and tires are arguably one of the most impactful modifications you can make to your 2020 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport. Not only do they dramatically alter the truck's appearance, but they also play a crucial role in its performance both on and off the road. Choosing the right set of wheels and tires can significantly enhance your Tacoma's capabilities and overall driving experience.
When selecting new wheels, consider factors such as size, material, and offset. Many Tacoma owners opt for aftermarket wheels that are slightly wider than the factory wheels, which allows for the installation of larger tires. Common wheel sizes for the Tacoma range from 16 to 18 inches, with various widths available depending on the desired tire size. The material of the wheels also matters. Alloy wheels are a popular choice due to their lightweight and durability. They also come in a wide variety of designs and finishes, allowing you to customize the look of your Tacoma to your liking.
The offset of the wheels is another critical consideration. The offset determines how far the wheels will stick out from the fenders. A negative offset will push the wheels outward, giving the Tacoma a wider stance and more aggressive appearance. However, it's important to ensure that the wheels don't protrude too far, as this can cause rubbing issues and may not be legal in some areas. A positive offset, on the other hand, will keep the wheels tucked closer to the body.
Choosing the right tires is just as important as selecting the right wheels. The type of tires you need will depend on how you plan to use your Tacoma. All-terrain tires are a popular choice for Tacoma owners who want a balance of on-road comfort and off-road traction. These tires feature a more aggressive tread pattern than standard street tires, providing better grip on dirt, gravel, and snow. However, they may produce more road noise and have a slightly shorter lifespan than street tires.
For those who primarily drive on pavement, highway tires are a good option. These tires offer a smooth and quiet ride, excellent fuel efficiency, and long tread life. They are designed for optimal performance on paved roads and may not provide sufficient traction for off-road use. If you're a serious off-roader, consider investing in mud tires. Mud tires feature large, aggressive tread blocks that provide maximum traction in muddy and rocky conditions. However, they can be noisy on the road and may wear out more quickly than other types of tires.
Armor and Protection
Armor and protection are essential modifications for the 2020 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport if you plan on tackling challenging trails and protecting your investment. The Tacoma is a capable truck, but its factory armor is often insufficient for serious off-roading. Upgrading your truck's armor will help prevent damage to vulnerable components such as the undercarriage, rocker panels, and bumpers.
One of the most important pieces of armor is a skid plate. Skid plates are designed to protect the undercarriage of your Tacoma from rocks, stumps, and other obstacles. They are typically made from steel or aluminum and are bolted to the frame. A full set of skid plates will protect the engine, transmission, transfer case, and fuel tank. Investing in high-quality skid plates can save you from costly repairs down the road.
Rocker panel protection is another crucial consideration. Rocker panels are located on the sides of the truck, just below the doors. They are particularly vulnerable to damage when driving over rocks and other obstacles. Rock sliders, also known as nerf bars or side steps, are designed to protect the rocker panels from impacts. They are typically made from heavy-duty steel tubing and are bolted to the frame. Rock sliders not only provide protection but also serve as a convenient step for getting in and out of the truck.
Upgrading your front and rear bumpers is another great way to protect your Tacoma. The factory bumpers are often made from plastic and are not very durable. Aftermarket bumpers are typically made from steel and offer much greater protection. They can also improve the approach and departure angles of your truck, making it easier to navigate obstacles. Many aftermarket bumpers also include features such as integrated winches, lights, and recovery points.
In addition to skid plates, rock sliders, and bumpers, there are other types of armor available for the Tacoma. These include differential covers, which protect the vulnerable differentials from damage, and bedside armor, which protects the sides of the bed from impacts. Choosing the right armor for your Tacoma will depend on your specific needs and the type of terrain you plan on tackling.
Performance Upgrades
For those looking to boost the performance of their 2020 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport, there are several modifications that can make a noticeable difference. While the Tacoma's engine is reliable, it can sometimes feel a bit underpowered, especially when towing or climbing steep hills. Upgrading various components can help improve horsepower, torque, and overall responsiveness.
One of the most popular performance upgrades is a cold air intake. A cold air intake replaces the factory air box with a larger, less restrictive intake that allows more air to flow into the engine. This can result in a slight increase in horsepower and torque, as well as improved throttle response. Many cold air intakes also feature a washable and reusable air filter, which can save you money in the long run.
Another effective performance upgrade is an exhaust system. The factory exhaust system is designed to be quiet and efficient, but it can also restrict the flow of exhaust gases. An aftermarket exhaust system can improve exhaust flow, resulting in increased horsepower and torque. Many aftermarket exhaust systems also feature a more aggressive sound, which can enhance the driving experience.
Tuning the engine's computer is another way to improve performance. A tuner can adjust various parameters such as fuel injection, ignition timing, and throttle response to optimize the engine's performance. This can result in increased horsepower and torque, as well as improved fuel economy. However, it's important to choose a reputable tuner and to ensure that the tune is compatible with your specific Tacoma.
In addition to these upgrades, there are other modifications that can improve the Tacoma's performance. These include throttle body spacers, which can improve throttle response, and performance chips, which can adjust various engine parameters. However, it's important to research any performance upgrade thoroughly before installing it to ensure that it's compatible with your Tacoma and that it won't cause any damage.
Interior and Exterior Accessories
Interior and exterior accessories are where you can really personalize your 2020 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport and make it stand out from the crowd. These modifications range from practical additions that improve functionality to aesthetic enhancements that give your truck a unique look. Whether you're looking to improve comfort, convenience, or style, there are countless accessories available for the Tacoma.
On the interior, consider adding seat covers to protect your seats from wear and tear. Seat covers come in a variety of materials, including cloth, leather, and neoprene. They can also add a touch of style to your interior. Floor mats are another essential accessory, especially if you live in an area with harsh weather. Floor mats can protect your carpets from dirt, mud, and snow.
Other popular interior accessories include dash cams, which can record your driving and provide evidence in the event of an accident, and upgraded audio systems, which can improve the sound quality of your music. You might also consider adding a center console organizer to keep your belongings organized and within easy reach.
On the exterior, consider adding a bed cover to protect your cargo from the elements. Bed covers come in a variety of styles, including tonneau covers, which are hinged or retractable covers that fit over the bed, and camper shells, which are fully enclosed covers that provide additional storage space. Running boards or side steps are another popular exterior accessory. They can make it easier to get in and out of the truck, especially if you have a lift kit installed.
Other exterior accessories include roof racks, which can be used to carry luggage, bikes, or other gear, and light bars, which can provide additional illumination for off-roading. You might also consider adding a bug deflector to protect your hood from insects and debris, or window visors to reduce glare and allow you to crack your windows open in the rain.
With these modifications, your 2020 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport will be ready for anything!
