LUV Toyota of Lakewood | Model Comparison | 2026
2026 Tacoma SR5 vs. TRD Sport: Which One Should You Buy?
If you have narrowed your Tacoma search down to the SR5 and TRD Sport, you are comparing two popular trims in the 2026 lineup.
For this comparison, we are looking specifically at the gas-powered SR5 and gas-powered TRD Sport. Toyota also offers a separate TRD Sport i-FORCE MAX hybrid configuration.
The two gas models share the same basic engine, but they are built for different priorities. Here is how they compare.
The Quick Answer
Buy the SR5 if you want a well-equipped Tacoma without paying extra for sport-focused features you may not need.
Buy the TRD Sport if you want a sport-tuned suspension, more distinctive styling, and the option of a manual transmission on select configurations.
Contact LUV Toyota for current pricing on both trims.
What They Have in Common
The gas-powered SR5 and TRD Sport both use Toyota's 2.4-liter turbocharged i-FORCE four-cylinder engine. With the 8-speed automatic transmission, the engine produces up to 278 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque, depending on configuration.
The TRD Sport is also available with a 6-speed intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT). Manual-equipped versions produce 270 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque.
Both trims are midsize pickups designed for work, towing, recreation, and everyday driving.
2026 Tacoma SR5
Toyota lists the 2026 Tacoma SR5 at 21 mpg city / 26 mpg highway for the applicable configuration.
Available SR5 configurations include:
- Double Cab, 5-foot bed
- Double Cab, 6-foot bed
- XtraCab, 6-foot bed
Toyota specifically lists the SR5 with a coil-spring rear suspension on Double Cab models.
Who it is for: Drivers who plan to use the Tacoma for commuting, hauling supplies, towing a trailer, camping, hunting, or everyday driving in Western New York without needing a sport-tuned suspension.
2026 Tacoma TRD Sport
Toyota lists the 2026 Tacoma TRD Sport at 20 mpg city / 24 mpg highway for the applicable gas configuration. The TRD Sport is available as a Double Cab with either a 5-foot or 6-foot bed. It also includes a TRD sport-tuned suspension, TRD Sport styling, and a black front Toyota logo for 2026. A 6-speed intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) is available on select TRD Sport configurations.
Who it is for: Drivers who want a sportier driving setup and more distinctive appearance, along with the option of a manual transmission.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | 2026 Tacoma SR5 | 2026 Tacoma TRD Sport |
|---|---|---|
| Gas Engine | 2.4L turbocharged i-FORCE | 2.4L turbocharged i-FORCE |
| Automatic Horsepower | Up to 278 hp | Up to 278 hp |
| Automatic Torque | Up to 317 lb.-ft. | Up to 317 lb.-ft. |
| Manual Horsepower | Not available | 270 hp |
| Manual Torque | Not available | 310 lb.-ft. |
| EPA-Est. MPG | 21/26 city/hwy* | 20/24 city/hwy* |
| Sport-Tuned Suspension | No | Yes |
| Manual Transmission | Not available | Available on select configurations |
| Double Cab | Available | Available |
| XtraCab | Available | Not available |
| Bed Options | 5-ft. or 6-ft. Double Cab; 6-ft. XtraCab | 5-ft. or 6-ft. Double Cab |
| 4WD | Available on select configurations | Available on select configurations |
| Max Tacoma Towing | Up to 6,500 lbs., depending on configuration | Configuration dependent |
*EPA estimates, equipment, and towing capacity vary by configuration. Maximum towing requires proper equipment.
A Note on 4WD
Toyota offers the 2026 Tacoma with rear-wheel drive and available 4WDemand part-time 4WD. For the SR5 and gas TRD Sport, 4WD configurations use Toyota's 4WDemand part-time 4-Wheel Drive system with an electronically controlled 2-speed transfer case. Availability depends on the specific configuration, so it is worth confirming the drivetrain on the exact truck you are considering.
For Western New York drivers, that can be an important distinction. Your needs may be very different if you are primarily commuting around Jamestown, Lakewood, or Erie compared with someone regularly driving on unplowed roads, rural roads, or rougher terrain.
Towing Capacity
The 2026 Tacoma has a maximum towing capacity of 6,500 pounds when properly equipped, although the actual rating varies by configuration. That makes the Tacoma a practical option for people hauling things like:
- Boats
- Campers
- Utility trailers
- ATVs
- Snowmobiles
- Equipment
If towing is a priority, do not choose a Tacoma based on trim name alone. The specific engine, transmission, drivetrain, cab, bed, and equipment can affect the truck's actual towing rating.
How the TRD Off-Road Fits In
The TRD Sport emphasizes sport-tuned suspension and styling. The TRD Off-Road is a separate trim designed around off-road capability, with features including Bilstein monotube shocks with piggyback reservoirs and available Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control.
So the choice is not simply SR5 vs. TRD Sport. If your priority is serious trail capability, the TRD Off-Road is the more relevant Tacoma to compare.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose the SR5 if you want a capable, well-rounded Tacoma with multiple cab and bed configurations and solid fuel economy, without paying extra for sport-focused equipment.
Choose the TRD Sport if the sport-tuned suspension, styling, and available manual transmission matter to you.
Choose the TRD Off-Road if your priority is off-road capability rather than a sport-oriented street setup.
The best way to decide between the SR5 and TRD Sport is to see and drive both. Specifications tell you what is different on paper. Driving them back-to-back tells you which one really feels right for you.