When it comes to flagship off-road trucks, Toyota has always held a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts. But recently, getting your hands on their top-tier model has been a challenge. We recently got a 2023 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro in at Mark Martin Motors, and it is a beast.
Whether you are a die-hard Toyota fan or just looking for a truck that can handle the trails straight off the lot, this Tundra demands attention. From its "technical camo" exterior accents to the controversial engine swap, here is our full walk-around and review of this elusive off-road machine.
Exterior: Built for the Trail (Factory Lift Included)
The first thing you notice about the 2023 TRD Pro is that Toyota didn't cut corners on the aggressive styling or the utility. This isn't just a pavement princess; it’s designed with clearance in mind.
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Integrated Lighting: The TRD Pro comes standard with an LED light bar built directly into the grille, along with upgraded LED headlights and marker lights.
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Forged Carbon-Style Trim: Toyota uses a unique "modeled camo" material (often referred to as "technical camo") on the wheel wells and bumpers. It looks like forged carbon fiber—it’s rugged, expensive-looking, and adds a premium feel to the plastic cladding.
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Suspension & Tires: This is where the truck shines. It sits on 35-inch BFGoodrich tires right from the factory. You can see the signature red springs and TRD Pro off-road shocks in the wheel wells. You don't need to go out and buy a lift kit; this truck is done right immediately.
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Protection: It features rock slider-style running boards. Note: these are for protection, not for stepping. They sit high and tight to protect your rocker panels on rough terrain.
Interior: "Technical Camo" Meets High-Tech Comfort
Stepping inside, the 2023 redesign feels miles ahead of the previous generation. It feels fresh, modern, and spacious.
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Unique Upholstery: The "technical camo" pattern isn't just on the outside; it’s perforated into the leather seats. Combined with the signature TRD Pro red stitching and red leather accents, the cabin looks incredible.
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Massive Space: If you are a bigger guy (over 6 feet tall), this truck passes the test. The seats are wide, and the headroom is generous.
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Technology: The center stack features a massive infotainment screen with a clean layout. It includes a 360-degree camera system—essential for off-roading—and a fully digital gauge cluster where you can even customize vehicle visuals.
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Storage: The center console is a dream for Americans. It features huge cup holders that easily fit a large Yeti mug, wireless chargers, and a sliding tray for organization.
Performance: The Twin-Turbo Hybrid Controversy
The biggest talking point of the 2023 redesign is under the hood. Toyota dropped the legendary 5.7L V8 in favor of the i-FORCE MAX Twin-Turbo V6 Hybrid.
The Pros:
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Efficiency: The hybrid system pushes fuel economy into the low 20s (MPG), a significant jump from the 13–15 MPG of the old V8s.
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Power: Don't let the cylinder count fool you—this truck has plenty of "spunk" and torque thanks to the electric motor assist.
The Cons:
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Complexity: As noted in the video, the loss of the naturally aspirated V8 is a sore spot for traditionalists who value simplicity and long-term reliability.
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Rear Storage: Because of the hybrid battery components and fuse boxes, you lose the under-seat storage in the rear cab. Instead of open space, you have plastic casing for fuses and relays.
Value and Pricing
Finding a TRD Pro in the wild is difficult. This specific 2023 model has 14,000 miles and is listed at **$64,000**. Considering these trucks carried sticker prices in the mid-$70k range when brand new (and often suffered from dealer markups), buying slightly used offers a savings of over $10,000.
The Verdict
The 2023 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro is a massive leap forward in technology, interior comfort, and factory off-road capability. While we miss the sound of the old V8, the performance and stance of this new platform are undeniable.
Watch the full walk-around video below to hear the engine and see all the hidden features!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGyOJS8qONE