Considering a 2015 Tacoma - a few questions

I am considering purchasing a Tacoma, and have a few questions for those of you with one.

Rear axle
Which model/size axle is in the Tacoma? Does the TRD Off-Road truck with the electric locker have the same size axle as the non-e-locker trucks? From what I have read, I think they may be different, but am not 100% sure.

Automatic transmission
When the trans is manually shifted into 1st, 2nd or 3rd, does the transmission hold that gear until hell freezes over, or does it shift on its own (either up or down)?

Towing
Does the V6 have enough power to tow a 1500 lb. teardrop off-road? (I am asking regarding a heavy overlanding built truck.)

TRD Off-Road Package
Aside from the e-locker, are the other features (switches!) on this model worth it? (I ask from the perspective of a truck that will be fairly well built.)

Any other thoughts, suggestions, ideas welcome.

Thanks in advance.

 

either one.. should work for you..

 

Thank you for the answers.

Does the SR5 model have the 8.4" axle or just the Sport?

I assume the 8.4 is stronger - any reason to prefer one over the other?

 

that I am unsure of..

not necessarily that much stronger.. the 8" off road rear end can take a beating.. the locker is the only reason I can see.

I had a sport previously.. and as much as I liked the color matched trim, etc.. I use the rear locker on my Off Road quiet often and am glad I went with the off road vs the sport this go around.

EDIT: after some looking around.. seems the SR5's have the 8.4"

 

As much as i agree with you, if i could do it over i think i would do a sport and add my own lockers

 

i mean.. air lockers > e-locker anyday.. no argument there.. but for my needs, and I'm sure most others here.. an e-locker + atrac is perfect lol

 

lol well i was thinking best of both worlds, color match, bigger rear and locker lol e-locker is fine for me too but its all about that scoop

 

I do somewhat miss my ol skewp.. lol

all that can be added as well tho..

 

I am thinking about running TruTracs at each end. That is how my current truck is set up.

I really like the way a TruTrac handles in slipperly conditions on the road. When off-road, you can "override" the occasional wheel spin by applying the brakes. Sure, not as effective as a locker, but for 99% of the time they works great.

 

Agreed. Trutracs are great!

If that's what you're thinking of doing, do the SR5, save some coin, and mod it the way you want it.