Smarter Trails Ahead
While off-road-ready vehicles are already capable of tackling trails thanks to features like a rugged body-on-frame platform and four-wheel-drive systems, their capability can be further enhanced by non-mechanical tools. One example is a dedicated off-road navigation platform that provides trail maps and related information, which eligible Toyota owners can use.
Toyota announced that it is expanding its partnership with outdoor digital navigation platform onX for a second year. Eligible owners of select 2026 Tundra, Tacoma, 4Runner, Sequoia, and Land Cruiser models will receive six months of complimentary onX Elite access, essentially covering the brand’s body-on-frame lineup.
Digital Maps, But For Dirt
The onX Elite subscription offers detailed trail information, land ownership data, hunting maps, fishing access points, offline maps, and backcountry routes. It is more specialized for off-road use than platforms like Google Maps, which are typically focused on street navigation.
The press release also highlighted onX’s other initiatives, including the Trail Creators Program and expanded Trail Revival Project. The Trail Creators Program brings together outdoor enthusiasts and content creators to promote responsible recreation, while the Trail Revival Project focuses on trail maintenance, restoration, and sustainable recreation efforts to preserve public land access. New onX Offroad features will also allow users to report trails in need of restoration.
While Toyota’s complimentary subscription is limited to the Tundra, Tacoma, 4Runner, Sequoia, and Land Cruiser, onX itself is available to anyone, so owners of models like the Kia Sportage and Chevrolet Equinox can use it too. It is worth noting, however, that more challenging trails are better suited to vehicles with the right off-road hardware.
That is because a body-on-frame chassis, as the name suggests, separates the body from the frame, allowing it to better handle the torsional forces encountered on uneven terrain. Unibody models like the Toyota RAV4 can still handle light off-road use, though they are generally designed more for comfort and everyday drivability.
Eyes On The Trail
The onX platform supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, Backcountry is not supported on either system, while TroutRoutes is not available through Android Auto.
Aside from this partnership, the Japanese marque has also explored using drones for off-road adventures. The proposed small drone system would provide real-time aerial awareness to help drivers scout terrain and avoid hazards. If green-lit, it could eventually make trail driving easier and more engaging, especially when paired with tools like onX.
