3rd Gen Tacoma powertrain

Y'all, I will be attending a university next year, so I thought I would start test driving some vehicles, to see which ones I liked. I test drive a Tundra and F-150(both great trucks, but too big for college parking spaces). I drove a 4Runner trail, which I loved, and then yesterday I drove a 2016 Limited Edition Tacoma. Honestly was disappointed. Loved the way it drove, but the transmission and engine combo left much to be desired. Interior was great, very comfortable leather seats, awesome turning radius, and nice back up camera. But I couldn't get over that powertrain. It downshifted and upshifted wierd, hunted for gears, etc. As of now, I have pretty much narrowed it down to a Tacoma or 4Runner. What do y'all think of the powertrain in the 3rd gen tacos? I thought the 4Runner had a lot more to offer, I honestly don't have a complaint for the 4Runner. And, is there a way to make the transmission better for the Tacos? I have an 05 taco, and I honestly love it. Only reason I'm trading it in is because of lack of room(access cab), almost 200k miles on it, and I need a 4x4. Should I get a taco or 4Runner?

 

Why would you want more room? Are you married? Kids? If not, just keep your current truck. Because:

1) You will not automatically be named the driver for all extracurricular outings. Additionally, when the inevitable Saturday night barf session ensues, you won't worry as much in your old truck as a new one.
2) College parking lots aren't the most "new car" friendly places. I don't know how many door dings, bumper dents I got. Don't worry yourself sick about getting door dings and such. You'll have enough of other things to worry about.

I had a crappy 2 door Honda coupe back in college. One of the best cars I've had to date.

 

Do you want a tuck or an SUV? Well there is a good start to your answer.

 

I need a fishing/backpacking rig. How do you like your Tacoma SDTaco4x4? Any complaints?

 

I personally love mine and have had zero real issues with it. *knock on wood*

 

4Runner

 

I swapped my 2007 Taco for my 2016 OR. It probably took me 8,000 miles to get used to the different power response and transmission. It's now the norm. It's a great rig.

SB

 

i dont know how you can afford a new car just starting college but i'll let that slide. IF you think college parking spaces is a reason to decide on what vehicle to buy, you need to start thinking about things that actually matter like dependability, price and capability you need.

 

I mean, it's a bit harder to tailgate in a 4Runner

 

You gonna hate the Tacoma more over time because that test drive experience will not get any better

 

Very true, better for him to find out that he doesn't like it during the test drive rather than after buying it.

 

This is also true. If the one doesn't like the test drive, then that probably means they shouldn't get the vehicle.

 

Ridgeline.

Or turn on the ECT switch on the next test drive.

 

Not with the sliding cargo tray!

I vote 4runner!

But be warned, everyone will want to suddenly be your friend to pile up in your spacious ride. Seriously though, I’d just get a piece of crap front wheel drive car for college campus. Or keep what you got, when you finish school, then upgrade.

 

OP, welcome to the forum. Unfortunately, we are not you. Test drive and pick what YOU want, not a consensus of an internet forum.