Need Your Opinion!

Hey All!

I don't have a truck yet, but I think I am in the right place to get some info!

I am a soon to be college grade (so I don't have a ton of cash) and I looking for my first truck. I've always been a Chevy guy, but there is something about a Tacoma that really interests me.

I know I will get 4WD because I do not know where I'll be living with my job, but I need some input - I4 or the V6? I am sort of on a tight budget, but I want to buy a truck that I can drive for years and years. I don't think I'll do towing or carrying heavy stuff, but the thought of opting out of the extra power bothers me. Anyone made a similar decision? Thanks!

 

V6 TRD off road all the way!

 

if i were to do it over again i would not have bought a new truck, i would have researched it like your doing...and bought a slightly used vehicle "tacoma" and for me and my needs i need 4x4, the tacoma has a lot of models that are different, example 4x4, comes with a locker if it "TRD" package or a regular 4x4 doesn't ( LSD ) if you plan on wheeling your truck then get the TRD package, if you don't then the 4x4 is enough to get you out of any normal situation. Sounds like you want 4x4 so the v-6 would be your choice. I have the 4 banger and have no regrets but i would have bought the trd if i would have researched period.. just because i plan on wheeling and want the rear locker. I almost regret getting the 4 bangere but its not really a slouch when driving normal, i honestly believe when i get my ARB locker for the rear i can get anywhere a v-6 TRD can, possibly farther because of being a little lighter <JMHO ..
you said you want to tow, carry heavy loads < i recommend some sort of aftermarket leaf pack re: ome dakkar pack. so with that little bit of info you gave i would recommend a used (2000 plus) tacoma with v-6 trd package....you would have to decide color, single cab, access cab, double> shop around and you should be able to find a good deal...keep looking and asking questions they will get answered. best of luck...

 

Great Truck, V6 definitly

search the different packages on the toyota web site.

SR5 package, Sport package, Off-road package

look them over real good, decide on your needs and wants

once you do that it should point you to the best truck for you.

For example: the SR5 package included everything i wanted

where the sport and off-road had nice extra's, but didnt need them.

So i got a SR5 and have been very happy.

The tires are the only major upgrade i have had to do.

But i recommend that with all the model's, stock tires limit the trucks abilities

 

All depends on your price range. Can't go wrong buying used either. I've had a '92 Taco 4x4 4cyl, '03 Taco 4x4 V6, now '05 Taco 4x4 V6. (I won't count the briefly owned dodge Ram,). I will say the current V6 has the most HP/towing capacity of the 3. Been very pleased so far. Better to have too much than regret later. You may need the extra HP when you decide to Mod the truck out with bigger tires,etc.. or haul/tow a load. Good luck and welcome to TW.

 

I really appreciate everyone's input! Thanks! I really agree with it's better to have more than regret having too little later.

Wattapunk - What made you move from the 4cyl to the V6?

 

i would say the TRD sport.
love the sport edition.

but i also dont wheel to hard so i did not need all the stuff that comes with the off road, which makes the sport good for me.
it kinda depends if you are wanting to go off roading alot.

 

I originally had a '99 V6. My '10 is an I4. Very happy with the I4. When I bought the V6, gas was $.72 per gallon. With the exception of when I had my landscaping business for three years, I only actually towed only one thing and that was to help someone else move. I'm sure my I4 coulda pulled the trailer as well. With gas prices where they are I can't justify a V6. Certainly there are people that can but I'm not one. Now, I realize these are trucks and aren't built for gas mileage (I had a Plymouth Horizon for commuting to save gas), but why spend more than you have to. Definitely consider your real needs. Don't do it on the notion that you may need to tow something once every other year. You can always rent a truck for the day if need be.

My V6 averaged 16 mpgs with the TRD package and 31x10.50's. My I4 averages 21-22 mpgs with 265/75r16's (about 31.5").

Good luck with the decision. Either way you'll always wonder if you made the right move.

 

taco trd OF double cab V6 is what you need there. I wish i had one. If not just get a trd sport or a non trd with a LONG BED!! Long beds are so helpful. The short beds are a bit to short. I love my long bed.

 

My requirements were: v6, 4x4, and double cab.

I wanted power, ability and space for two rug rats.

Nathan
ycart1201

 

Whatever you decide on, take a hard look at certified used. I found an 05 TRD Off Road DC 4x4 with only 23K miles, one owner, that was in mint condition from a local Toyota dealer (that I had dealt with previously), and the deal was so much better than buying new. I've almost had it a year and it is still as good as a new truck.

I might be wrong, but you never hear folks who regret getting the V6; the I-4, sometimes...

 

The current 4cyl may have more HP than the '92 Taco 4x4 I had but I still remember how bad the acceleration that '92 had after I put the lift and 32" BFG's on. The last and current V6 has plenty of power, even with my current lift and tires. Go test drive both at the dealership, I think you will really like the V6 auto.

 

Same here but I have 3 rug rats.