With the resale value on Tacoma's being so high, does it make sense to spend $25k on a used one?

I'm probably over posting when it comes to trying to decide on a Tacoma, but as this is the biggest purchase I've ever made, I'm trying to do it right the first time.

I have the trim level and features down, so that's a plus.

I'm just trying to decide if it's worth buying for the long term, (senior college student) so I can virtually drive this truck for the next 20 years, or buy a cheaper model that I will probably "like" and sell or trade in 2-3 years.

I've got the following to look at:

2009 TRD Sport 4x4 Access, silver, 40k miles (already lifted with tires)
- $18,000

2015 TRD Sport Access, 4x4 super white, 10k miles
-$26,000

2017 Access TRD Sport 4x4, 0 miles
$34-35k

Thoughts on buying for the long term vs. buying for the now?

 

Of those three, definitely get the 2015. They're proven to be reliable, it's barely got any miles, and it's a fair price. That'll last you a long ass time.

EDIT: It'll also hold its resale value really well, with it being the last year of the second gens.

 

^Yep what he said

 

What @EatSleepTacos mentioned

 

Thanks, I'm going to go check it out later tonight and report back with my findings later this evening.

 

In your situation as a college student, buy some beat up $2k truck, graduate, get a good paying job, then buy the Tacoma of your dreams with cash or that you're able to pay off within a year.

Don't fall into the trap of immediate gratification as 99% of the population does.

 

If it's in good condition, you should hop on it because that's a great deal!!

 

Not to sound like a cock, but if I can afford to pay for the remainder of school as well as cash for a truck, would you still not recommend any of these options, and to still buy a $2k truck?

 

Only if you're able to buy your dream truck and not have to compromise

You want to love your truck, not like it ( especially if this is a huge purchase for you)

I know it's tough, but that's why 99% of people go the immediate gratification way that ultimately puts them behind or at a disadvantage years from now. Worst thing is having a new toy and being trapped working for The Man to pay it off with the chance you'll hate your job.

All in all ( and this is probably leaning more towards life advice) it's better to have a FU fund than any material possession. We all were in the same position when we are younger due to society pushing the whole immediate gratification down our throats. It's tough seeing others with something you want too especially in your previous peer group. So my advice, get an FU fund first, then buy anything you want

 

Just my 2 cents. You should also think about what your life will look like in the future. Kids? You might want to consider a double cab. Otherwise you could end up selling your dream truck for a minivan.

 

Good point. Haven't test drove a 2016 yet so can't say for sure if the 2.5 gen TRD Sport is my "dream truck" or not.

I'm still back and forth on whether I like the looks of the 3rd gens, everyone has their own opinion but, I really feel like the 2.5's are the best looking, especially with the scoop!

 

What Juforrest said. Think about how your life may change over the next 20 years.

 

I figured that the Tacoma could hold its value well enough that by the time I have kids, hopefully 10+ years in the future, I could trade it in for a 4th gen DCSB. By then my dirtbiking days will probably be over so I probably won't need a 6 ft. bed

 

Longbeds forever!!!!!

 

You all are providing me with future advice that I've been trying to push waaaaay down.

Kids. Mini Vans. Future Plans

 

The access cab really is awesome. After owning a DCSB and an AC, I vastly prefer the AC.

 

Lol, I really don't mind the Long Bed that much. And I'd imagine it's the most practical
of all the Tacoma's.

But my dad and I have agreed that they look like a "Turd". (No pun intended)

 

4th Gen DCLB and keep those dirtbike days going forever! Never grow old! Never conform! Neeeevvvvver get a Minivan!

I will beat everyone to the punch line and post myself "never say never"

Get your truck & be happy!

 

Yeah, really it seems to be the most useful for what I'll be using it for. Plus I only have a dog, and a girlfriend. So I don't find myself hauling multiple passengers too often.

 

Same here. Just a wife and a dog, and it's perfect! Granted it's our 3rd vehicle and a dedicated camping/wheeling toy, but it could be my DD and still work great.