The 2016 SEMA Show packs everything cool and amazing from the automotive industry into one week. While we were out there, we saw trucks and SUVs that were probably a bit more show than substance, but one vehicle that definitely bucked that trend was the Camburg Engineering-built 2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro.

Quick Look At Camburg's 2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro

• Kinetik billet upper A-arms
• Fox 2.5 remote front coilovers
• Fox 16×3.0 triple bypass shocks on Kinetik bedcage
• Rigid Industries Q2 driving lights
• CBR transmission cooler
• Camburg custom front bumper with skidplate (one-off)
• Pyrotect 50-gallon fuel cell
• Camburg Toyota Tacoma L/T spring-under kit
• Rugged Radios race radio and intercom system
• Kinetik TIG-welded 4130 cage
• KMC XD127 Bully 17-inch wheels
• General Grabber X3 285/70R17 tires

From its carbon fiber-esque wrap to its glowing red wheels, the Tacoma had the looks to go with its serious off-road credentials, which is something Camburg prides itself on. As a matter of fact, the truck is eventually destined to race next year in a very important event. We talked with CEO Jerry Zaiden to get a better sense of how this Taco came to be.

“It was our idea to start this build,” said Zaiden. “We approached Toyota about the idea of racing one of these new TRD Pro Tacomas, and they got very excited. They sent us the truck about two months ago, and this is the result.”

Asked what the goal of the build was, Zaiden said: “We aimed to take a stock Tacoma TRD Pro and build it into a race truck, make sure it meets the rules for the Mint 400, and showcase what it’s really capable of. We’ve kept the drivetrain totally stock, but upgraded the chassis and suspension as much as we’re allowed to by Best In The Desert rules.”

To that end, the Tacoma sports Fox three-inch bypass shocks on all four corners, providing about 14 inches of travel in the rear and 9 inches of travel in the front. The Camburg touch comes in the form of upgraded billet aluminum Kinetik upper control arms, as well as the custom rear bedcage to mount the longer, beefier shocks.

“My favorite part about this build is that we get to race a brand new Tacoma,” said Zaiden. “I’ve always liked the suspension on these trucks. They’re a tried and true platform for off-roading, and we’ve built components for the previous 2005 to 2015 generation. It will be a lot of fun to beat up this truck at the 2017 Mint 400 and see how it does.”

Given Camburg’s esteemed history and focus on always building top-tier parts, we expect this is one Tacoma that will do very well at the upcoming Mint 400. We look forward to seeing how it does while we’re out there next March. In the meantime, check out more on Camburg’s website, and stay here on Off Road Xtreme for more sweet off-road content!