Get (A Little Farther) Off-Road With 2021 Toyota Trail Edition Models

There’s no denying that niche marketing has become the name of the game. As if it didn’t already feel like there was a model trim available for every conceivable buyer, automakers continue to pump out special editions with increasing regularity. And while many shoppers might not see the appeal in a hyper-specific limited run, just as many are itching to buy one. Because, let’s be honest, people love being part of an exclusive club—and special edition vehicles do just that.

So, if you like your rig like you like your Netflix—Visually-Striking But Understated Outdoorsy-Oriented Fun With a Strong Lead Driving the Action—then Toyota has something just for you.

Special Trail Editions

Debuting at the 2020 Chicago Auto Show was Toyota’s newest creation: The Trail Edition, a limited-run model geared toward off-road enthusiasts. Available for 2021 4Runner, Tacoma, and Tundra models, this edition’s upgrades are definitely more style-oriented than function-forward, but there are still some exciting features to unpack—including some very cool and convenient cargo management add-ons.

All three are based on the SR5 grade models, with buyer’s choice of 2WD or 4WD. Other shared features include special exterior colors (Cement, Army Green, Midnight Black, and Super White) featuring black badging, as well as the addition of tan stitching and all-weather floormats to the interior.

From there, each Toyota Trail Edition model sports its own particular set of upgrades.

Toyota 4Runner

Despite the model sitting in its fifth generation for more than a decade, the 4Runner remains a capable off-roader with attractive styling. It sports a respectable if not particularly fuel-efficient 270-hp 4.0-liter V6 mated to a 5-speed automatic, and still operates on a good old-fashioned body-on-frame construction.

To be honest, we like the 4Runner’s old school charms. And, while a redesign is always fun, this new Trail Edition definitely makes the wait easier to endure.

In addition to the few styling upgrades, the 4Runner Trail Edition gains 17-inch dark gray TRD Off-Road wheels and a Yakima LoadWarrior rooftop cargo basket for some extra storage capability. Around back, you’ll find a custom sliding cargo tray to make gear access a little easier and attached to it, via special tie-down straps, is arguably the coolest new feature: a custom-made 40-quart cooler.

I know what you’re thinking, but this isn’t any old cooler. With a lockable lid and freezer-grade gasket, it can keep ice frozen for up to a WEEK. Two heavy-duty latches feature integrated bottle openers and a large built-in drain plug makes clean-up a breeze. The sturdy unit also has a nice flat top, which can double as an extra seat or table-top when camping. Plus, the cooler comes color-keyed with Cement or Army Green exterior 4Runner colors. How cool is that?

Toyota Tacoma

Only about five years into its third generation, we don’t expect much to change on the 2021 Toyota Tacoma. So, like the 4Runner, this Trail Edition is a welcome addition to freshen things up.

In addition to upgrading drivers to the 278-hp 3.5-liter V6, the new Toyota Tacoma Trail Edition also features dark gray 16-inch TRD Off-Road wheels with Kevlar All-Terrain tires, a 115-volt power outlet in the bed, and the attractive grille from the Tacoma Limited.

On the cargo management front, it gains lockable storage bins in the bed. (They’re a little reminiscent of the RamBox, except that they open from inside the bed, not outside the truck.) Plus, the bin on the driver’s side is actually insulated, allowing it to double as a cooler.

Toyota Tundra

Like its 4Runner sibling, the Toyota Tundra has also been lingering in its most recent generation for over a decade. However, it did see a pretty significant redesign in 2014 and the new Trail Edition model helps refine that styling a little further.

Borrowing the chrome grille from the 1794 Edition with color-keyed surround, this Tundra ends up with a pretty upscale-looking front end for an off-road model. It’s still adventure-ready though, thanks to its 18-inch special edition wheels, lockable bed storage, and a 5.7-liter V8 pumping out 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque.

Overall Impression

Overall, Toyota is serving up a nice little package in its Trail Edition, even if we do find the name a little misleading. With no real noteworthy performance and capability upgrades in these models, they feel less equipped for “trail riding” and more equipped for “handling those few trails on the way to the campground/fishing hole/deer stand” if you catch my drift.

Regardless, if you’re outdoor-oriented and looking for a limited-run Toyota to match that vibe, act fast. Toyota only plans to make 7,000 Tacomas, 5,000 Tundras and 4,000 4Runners as Trail Editions.

 

Still rocking an older model Tacoma or Tundra…?

Meet the UnderCover RidgeLander

“Designed with the weekends in mind,” the RidgeLander from UnderCover is capable of protecting, securing, and organizing all the recreation equipment your full-time explorer’s heart desires. And, as it’s available for 2014-2020 Toyota Tundra models and 2016-2020 Toyota Tacoma models, this hard, one-piece, hinging tonneau might be just what you need to add a little trail-ready oomph to your older ride.

The RidgeLander is constructed of aircraft-grade aluminum and designed to withstand 250-lbs of cargo. Its built-in cross bar Tango Track System can be used with or without the cover and offers near-infinite cargo carrying options. Better yet, the RidgeLander plays well with other aftermarket friends, fitting over 35 accessory mounts from popular names like Yakima, Thule, and Rhino Rack.

While UnderCover offers a variety of accessory upgrades like super tough UV-treated luggage bags, handy combo brackets to store Hi-lift jacks and shovels, and clever quick-mounting bike carriers, the company also simplifies the shopping experience by offering thoughtfully packaged, well-priced accessory kits. Targeting the specific needs of campers, overlanders, fishermen, skiers, and cyclists, each kit offers versatile storage and secure protection.

Made in the USA, the RidgeLander carries a 3-year warranty and uses a simple, no-drill installation. Click here to learn more.