Thoughts on the JBL Premium Audio in the 4th Gen Tacoma — How Does It Stack Up to Stock?

[JustinDizon]

Hey everyone,


I’ve been digging into the JBL® Premium Audio setup in the new 4th Gen Tacoma and thought I’d breakdown what I’ve found. Plus, I'll compare it to the standard audio system so you can decide if the JBL option is worth it.

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Stock (Base) Audio vs JBL — What’s the Difference?​

Stock System (SR, SR5, some TRD trims):

• Uses simple single-driver speakers: 3.5" dash speaker, 7" front door, and 6.5" rear door.
• No dedicated tweeters or subwoofer setup—just basic audio. One guy on TacomaWorld pointed out this setup is basically standard and doesn’t deliver much at all.

JBL Premium Audio:

• Adds the dash-mounted JBL FLEX Bluetooth speaker and a small sub (~8") behind the rear seat.
• Better front-end sound thanks to upgraded door speakers. A few owners report more punch, especially up front.
• Some feel it still falls short—bass is weak, and the escape of sound from the small sub makes a real thump impossible.

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Real-World Feedback​

Pros of JBL:

• Noticeably better than the basic system, especially in front.
• The FLEX speaker can be handy for outdoor or tailgate use.
• Clean and clear audio for daily drives.

Cons of JBL:

• Bass is minimal. That small rear sub isn’t enclosed and adds low-end only in a small way.
• The docked FLEX speaker often overpowers other channels, messing with stereo balance—many users un-dock it for better sound.

One owner said, “I’m a sound snob—and the JBL? It doesn’t do much over stock; it feels like the same base system.

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Bottom Line​

For casual listening, the JBL setup is a solid step up from the stock audio—especially upfront. But if you’re after bass, balance, and true stereo, it’s going to leave you wanting more. Most serious audiophiles end up adding an amp, better speakers, or tearing in a full aftermarket system.

Has anyone upgraded theirs yet? Interested in how I'd do it—deadening doors, adding a sub, or just fiddling with EQ.

 

[Jim_TRD_Offroad]

I like the JBL portable Flex speaker. I use it when I do maintenance and errands around the house. Comes in handy.

I never owned a vehicle with JBL system. So far I really like it.

 

[opappen]

The JBL system is the worst “premium” sound package I’ve heard in a vehicle. I wouldn’t say there’s a lack of bass as the sub does sound okay but the speakers just don’t get loud enough. I know people say taking the center speaker out makes it sound better but I don’t agree with that. You can just adjust the balance a notch or two towards the rear and it fixes the overpowering front speakers. Unfortunately I can’t compare it to the stock speakers as I’ve never heard them. There is hella rattle in the doors already at 2000 miles so you probably wan’t to deaden everything as your first step.

For now I’m leaving the sound system alone, it sounds better than my 2017 Subaru so I’m probably going to replace the head unit in that to get CarPlay and upgrade the speakers before I touch the Taco.