The latest Toyota rumor has it that there will no longer be Trail or Trail Premium models offered in 2017, and instead, Toyota will follow suit with their Tacoma versioning with TRD Off Road and TRD Premium versions. It seems the new 4Runner off road lineup will be: TRD Pro (base), TRD Off Road (Mid Range) and TRD Off Road Premium.
Toyota first offered the Trail Edition on the 5th Gen in 2009. It seems 2016 will be its last year running, a brief 7 year stint in the overall 4Runner lifespan.
Personally, as a 2016 Trail Premium owner, I welcome the change and the rarity it will place on the Trail models. It might even have a positive impact on the resale value. I'm also a fan of the Trail Edition and Trail Edition Premium stealth looks - no badging, no emblems, no headrest embroidery or floor mat stitching calling out what it is. It's subtle and clean.
On the other hand, with an expanding TRD line up, the rarity and exclusivity of the TRD badge may eventually find itself somewhat diminished and commoditized.
What are your thoughts on this change, if indeed it turns out true? What do you Trail owners think and what about all you TRD owners?
The trd pro will be the most capable for off roading of the three.