So you're unsure of which Tacoma to buy..

Hey all,

I finally got around to posting a few pics of my new Taco. God damn I love this truck! My love affair with the Taco aside, I'd like to provide my comparison between a 2009 V6 AT AC 4x4 TRD, 2009 4x4 AT and Manual 2.7L, and 2013 DC 4x4.

I recently purchased my 2009, but had the opportunity to drive a 2013 DC 4x4 for a month before I made my purchase. I drove the 4x4 2.7L's a few times. This post might be useful for those of you that are torn between buying the AC or DC, TRD or non-TRD, or 2009-2014.

Here are my observations:

1) Sound-proofing in the 2013 is much better than the 2009. Road noise is significantly reduced. In the 2009, engine and transmission sounds are much more prominent, but not in a good way. This wasn't a deal breaker, but the 2013 was as quite as a Benz.

2) Transmission somehow shifts "smoother" in the 2013. I couldn't find any information on changes in the tranny or driveline, but I can feel a difference.

3)The 2.7L is extremely underpowered. The 4 cyl mated to the 4 speed transmission is clunky, and painfully slow. The 5 speed is tolerable, until you drive the 4.0L. The 4 cyl does provide slightly better fuel economy, but not by much. 2.7L is 17/22 while the 4.0L is 16/20. The 4.0L generates 236HP and the 2.7L is 159 HP. The 77 HP difference is VERY noticeable. I'm surprised Toyota produced the Tacoma with the 2.7L, it just doesn't feel adequate.

4)TRD seats provide better lumbar and lateral support. The stitching on the seats is much better quality.

5)If you plan on traveling with a few adults for more than 45 minutes, get the DC. I took the DC for a 5 hour road trip with 3 adults and gear. We fit very comfortably.

 

Don't be in a hurry with the 2.7, for sure.

 

Originally bought the 2.7. It was totaled with 4500 miles on it. I upgraded to the 4.0 v6. Could not be happier. The 2.7 is seriously underpowered.

 

You said it yourself 2.7 is undepowered, Go with the V-6!

Jay

 

Love my 2.7 manual shift. Gas sipper compared to my old chevy