New 3rd gen buyer confused on audio

Hey guys I come to you for clarification. Currently have a 2009 Tacoma Prerunner Sport with the JBL sound system.

We are looking to upgrade now to a 2021 TRD Sport 4x4. I did a build out on the Toyota website and selected a $2790 package that includes (technology package, Led head and fog lights and Premium Audio and Navigation). The dealer is telling me this premium audio does not include a subwoofer. The only way to get one is to go to the JBL which is only available with the TRD Sport Premium package which would add another $2300. Is this correct? If so seems like the “Premium Audio” really adds nothing beyond built in nav and an app.

Thanks all

 

I’m not 100% on the answer, but I can tell you from first hand experience, the JBL is not worth any additional money. My truck is less than a month old, has the JBL package, and I’m already in the process of upgrading it all. The door speakers aren’t horrible, but the sub is beyond disappointing.

As a note, I’m not an 18 year old who is looking to blow out windows, or even remotely close. I’m 35. I’ve upgraded systems in a few of my cars, but for the past decade I’ve been more than happy with normal upgraded stock systems. The Tacoma’s sub is horrible though.

 

Personally, I would get the system without JBL and just upgrade everything yourself. It will be cheaper, and sound much better. Had I known before hand the JBL was as bad as it is, I would have tried to find one without it. Too little too late though.

 

Toyota can be confusing in terms of this. They have base audio, premium audio then JBL premium audio. Up here in Canada JBL is not available with a manual transmission, even in a Pro. Not worth the extra money. Better having regular premium and upgrade everything. You'll have better sound for less money.

 

I have a 2020 TRD Sport Premium Tech package and it does include the subwoofer. It’s located in the back, behind one of the seats. Like, @mwrood mentioned it’s not worth it. I was really surprised on how low quality the JBL system is. Not sure how much “better” it is compared to the ones that don’t have it. I’ve read that if you don’t get the JBL audio, you can always upgrade your speakers with subaru speakers and they’re much better.

I would much rather have the extra cubby space that people get without the jbl subwoofer than to have the subwoofer behind one of the seats.

 

Thanks guys they do make it confusing for sure. To make it even more confusing the dealers don’t list the packages like Toyota does on the website. Funny they have two premium audio options but the first really doesn’t add anything to the audio. Only get that if you get the TRD Premium. Shoot they may as well say it’s military grade and call it a day! lOl

 

Ha yeah, the regional differences in option packages makes things even more confusing if you don't put the right zip code in before you build.

We have the premium JBL and also wish that we had the behind seat cubby space instead.

 

I like my jbl. Coming from a 2016 sr5 with entune radio to 2020 with jbl.

 

Didn't know that the JBL option caused so many conflicts with trims.

Luckily I am not an audiophile/fine with the stock system.

 

Jbl is nice, but not 2300 nice if thats the case. I had non jbl and now the jbl and while you get more base it's definitely not a premium sound system

 

Yes, it is annoying how Toyota does their packages. But here's my 2 cents on what's worth it and what might not be:

Sport Premium Package (only way to get JBL sound system I think) - not worth it just to get the audio upgrade. Worth it if you will appreciate the leather seats, moon roof, and JBL combined.

LED headlights - 1000% worth it. If you get anything, a package with these.

Advanced Tech Package - Tough call. I really enjoy the 360 camera system, but might not be worth the extra price. Regular tech package has all the goodies except the 360 cameras.

 

Thanks for the reply’s.

My wife wants heated seats but I can add those to fabric seats later. I really don’t want leather as we live in Phoenix and my last car, Audi S4, had Nappa leather and it was sticky and hot. I really don’t want a moon roof either. Won’t use it. So your right it’s a lot of money for just heated seats and audio as that’s really the only things that interests us.

They really don’t do a good job of outlining the differences.

Regular technology is what we are looking at not the Advanced Tech with the 360.

 

The JBL stereo sucks. Not worth the extra money. But then again, the lower end one sucks too.
But I'll be replacing everything in mine. I've already bought everything.

 

I agree. Have the 2021 as well, with JBL and Leather. Real disappointed with the JBL.
Like Mwrood, im not a kid looking to bounce the car. Would like to crank some Stones on occasion though, so already considering upgrade.
JBL would be fine if you just want some OK music at a moderate level.

I Do not want to replace the head unit so not sure what needs to be done. If anyone has suggestions, im all ears.
Aside from better speakers and bigger amp, anything else needed? Would that do it?

 

I wanted the JBL but cannot spec it with a manual transmission. I then heard the JBL and was glad I don't have it. Reminded me of the Rockford Fosgate system in my Titan. Sounded good but not great.

 

The sound of music....Ever notice so many Audio companies... near car dealers? is it because most vehicles have average sound systems...and maybe a few with higher quality?

I listen to more talk shows...than anything else...as long as it clear enough..the sound system in 2019 Tacoma TRD..meets satisfactory...would I like it to be better...off course...but not paying more $$$...
I rather use the money for other mods...

One of best friends (was a musician)...got the best audio systems one can buy...home and car... always ask what I think...he gets disappointed because I hardly notice the difference...

I am a recreation fisher..the only sounds that is exciting ..is the screaming reels..
Aloha,

 

Sound is such a subjective thing. I too like the sound in my JBL, but so much depends on the source music. I listen to Spotify 99% of the time, and I've adjusted the bitrate and quality settings to the max. Some songs sounds perfect with great bass and loudness, while others sound flat. I've had a few cars with Bose and a Nissan with the Rockford Fosgate, I preferred the JBL in my Tacoma to all of those.

I feel aftermarket stereo is the same as lifts, racks, and extras people add to their truck. Make it your own, but don't expect to recoup the cost when you go to sell.

 

The oem “upgrade” ... is just sad. You are better off upgrading the stereo yourself .

 

I like the JBL upgrade. I wasn't looking for extreme, window shattering bass but I wanted a good thump with my songs I listen to.

I was comparing the JBL system to my previous car, which is 2005 Lexus IS300, which I absolutely loved the stock music system in it for 13 years.

I used that as a standard and found JBL system to be performing well, but not exactly Lexus level but close enough for me.

 

Ive had an audi, Mercedes and Suburban. the premium factory audio in those 3 was awesome for me. the JBL is not even close to any of them. I'll be trying a minor upgrade as soon as this quarantine is over and im driving distances for work again.