Checked out a Tacoma, felt like I didn't fit in it.

Been contemplating downsizing from my aging Tundra. I absolutely abhor the new Tundras and I'd like something smaller that can fit in my garage and park more easily. The Taco is on my short list (actually, it's the only vehicle I would consider except maybe a 4runner if I can convince myself I don't actually need a bed anymore).

Anyhow, completely average built guy here... 5'10" and about 175. Every time I climbed in and out of the truck I actually had to struggle to get my knees under the steering wheel. Even with the steering wheel in the highest position and the seat all the way back I was contorting myself in uncomfortable positions just to get into the driver's seat.

How do you guys manage?

 

I am 5'10'' and have to duck my head a little, but have adjusted because I want the truck. Tacoma is not a large pickup. As of late, it almost oddly feels not that tal while driving it ... but it is much taller than the vehicle I used to drive.

I just accept it.

 

Yeah, it’s a small truck. That’s how it is with the Tacoma’s

 

We had a saying in the Navy, "you can't put 10 pounds of shit in a 5 pound can". Having shared that, there are guys here bigger than you driving Tacos just fine. But if you feel cramped now, you will feel cramped later. I personally would look elsewhere for your Tundra replacement.

 

I’m 5’10” and have no issues whatsoever.

 

6'1 and I make it work, but everyone's proportions are different too. Now that I'm used to it I don't have a hard time getting in, I never thought I'd adapt to the steering wheel position as you described, but I did!

I always mention this but the "premium" package comes with the sunroof as of the last few model years, and that thing takes up all your possible head room. If you test drove one with fabric seats and no sunroof and you still didn't like it, then yeah it might not be the right truck for you. For the record I fit just fine in mine since I don't have the sunroof.

 

6'4" 275lb. I fit like a glove.

 

Not sure how or why you're struggling at your size...Maybe try getting in a different way? But yeah, it's for sure much smaller than what you'd be used to in your Tundra.

The 4Runners definitely have more room and are overall more comfortable, in my opinion.

 

What year model were you getting in and out of? If it has power seats lower the front so you don't smack your knees. I am 5'10" same weight depending on what I had for lunch. It is just muscle memory at this point. But If I get in a hurry I still hit my head or my knees sometimes.
I have been thinking about getting something bigger, I am about to have a kid and the car seat won't fit in the back seat. Even at 5'10" my seat is almost all the way back. So my rear seat is unusable for anyone other than the dogs.

 

6'2 with front jackers and I'm comfy. I even have the sunroof. I just had to find my angle. I fit though.
You could always get a steering column extension if it's the only issue. A spacer will fix that knee jam right up.

 

5'11", or 6' with shoes on. No issues. I think a lot of it has to do with what you are used to. I had a Tundra for a bit, and I felt it was huge compared to what I was used to and eventually went back to a Tacoma. If I had driven full-sized pickups all my life, switching to a Tacoma would likely take some getting used to.

 

5'11 , 160 lbs, slimmer guy, never an issue getting in and out and I have the sunroof. The driving position does sit different by design (supposedly more commanding upright view for off roading, etc. but many are not a fan. I will say anytime I get in the wife's lexus or buddies truck, it feels more comfortable, but awkward to me.

 

Wow I didn't even think that the seat could have been up high. Yes I was in a 2023 TRD PRO. My 2016 Tundra doesn't have an up/down adjustment for the seat (even though it has a power driver's seat) so it didn't occur to me to check.

 

It is snug. My only gripe being the seat portion length. I wish it hit the back of my knees more. Makes long drives a pain. Guess I should try some front seat jackers.
I do love being able to park in tight spots and my garage. Would be tough with a tundra.

 

Dude is 5'10 but...

 

I’m in the same situation. I’m 5’9” and 170lbs and I struggle to not hit my knee on the dash to the lower left of the steering wheel every time I get in the truck. Steering wheel is also in the highest position. Not a fan but oh well.

 

I too, downsized from a Gen1 double cab Tundra (Awesome truck). I did have to change the way I entered the Taco. I go in head first to avoid bumping my head. Also adjusted the power seat just about all the way down. Once I'm in the drivers seat though, I love driving/riding in the Taco

 

If you dislike getting in and out of the Tacoma now, think about how you’d feel after purchasing a Tacoma.

Plenty of threads on here about owners who regret the purchase. Typical response is “did you test drive”

You did go for a test drive. And comfort is an issue. That tells you something.

 

5’11” 185 here. No issues getting in and out. I also find seats very comfortable even on 8 hour drive.

Do you have super long legs or something?

 

Like O.J.'s glove?