Finding a mid-size truck that combines forced induction with a manual gearbox is a dream for many off-road purists. This 2011 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport serves as a masterclass in functional, high-end modification without compromising its rugged Toyota DNA. Since 2017, the current owner has transformed this Double Cab into a serious overland contender. It features a rare six-speed manual transmission paired with a supercharged V6 engine. This combination offers a level of driver engagement that modern trucks simply cannot replicate. It represents a deliberate build where every component was chosen to enhance technical trail capability and road presence.
Supercharged V6 and Mechanical Refinement
The heart of this 2011 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport is the 4.0-liter V6, now breathed upon by a Magnuson supercharger. This bolt-on power adder utilizes a URD pulley to increase boost and overall engine response. To manage the extra heat, a Flex-A-Lite electric cooling fan and an aFe cold air intake were installed. The owner also integrated a URD flywheel and a custom 3-inch stainless-steel cat-back exhaust system. These upgrades ensure the truck has the torque needed to turn its larger tires effortlessly. Maintenance remains a priority, with recent 2025 services covering the intake manifold gaskets and various engine sensors.
Advanced Drivetrain and Atlas Transfer Case
What truly sets this 2011 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport apart is the specialized drivetrain configuration found beneath the cab. The factory transfer case was replaced with an Atlas twin-stick unit for ultimate control over the 4×4 system. This setup allows the driver to select between rear-wheel and four-wheel drive ranges independently for the front and rear. A URD short-throw shift kit sharpens the gates of the six-speed manual gearbox. Out back, a Nitro Gears 4.10:1 ring and pinion set works with an ARB pneumatic rear locker. These professional-grade parts provide the traction required for crawling through steep, loose terrain with absolute confidence.
Professional Suspension and Braking Components
Handling the added weight of armor and gear required a total overhaul of the factory suspension system. Up front, the 2011 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport utilizes Icon 2.5-inch coilovers paired with Total Chaos lower control arms. The rear features Icon 2-inch shocks and RXT leaf springs supported by hydraulic bump stops for heavy loads. Braking performance was drastically improved with a Sequoia-spec master cylinder and Wilwood six-piston front calipers. Cross-drilled rotors and stainless-steel lines ensure consistent pedal feel during long mountain descents. This setup balances high-speed desert stability with the articulation needed for technical rock crawling sections.
Overland Armor and Cargo Bed Utility
Protecting the bodywork is a suite of Pelfreybilt skid plates, rock sliders, and a high-clearance rear bumper. The front features a powder-coated C4 steel bumper equipped with Baja Designs auxiliary lighting for nighttime trail visibility. An ARE color-keyed canopy covers the 5-foot bed, which is outfitted with a carpeted liner and recovery gear. Inside the bed, users find power ports, RotopaX containers, and access to the onboard ARB air compressor. Even the wheels are top-tier, featuring forged 17-inch Volk Racing TE37XT RAYS finished in a rugged bronze. These modifications turn the truck into a self-contained basecamp for remote explorations.
Performance Specifications and Power Delivery
The Magnuson supercharged 4.0-liter V6 delivers a substantial increase in power over the stock 236 horsepower rating. Using a Bully Dog controller, the engine management is fine-tuned to maximize the potential of the forced induction system. This Tacoma delivers instant torque, which is essential when navigating technical obstacles or passing on the highway. High-RPM idling is noted, but the truck remains a reliable performer with 137,000 miles on the clock. The six-speed manual ensures that the driver can always find the right gear for the supercharger’s powerband. It is a robust mechanical package built to endure the rigors of heavy off-road use.
Summary of a Purpose-Built Tacoma
This 2011 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport is an exceptional example of what happens when a builder prioritizes quality over cost. It successfully integrates high-end racing components with the legendary reliability of the second-generation Tacoma platform. The inclusion of an Atlas transfer case and a supercharged V6 makes it one of the most unique builds available. While the body shows honest signs of trail use, the mechanical systems have been maintained with professional scrutiny. It offers a turn-key solution for any enthusiast looking to skip the build process and head straight to the trails. This truck remains a definitive statement in the world of custom Toyota 4x4s.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
