Will I regret getting a 4 cylinder tacoma?

4cyl is best.... my friend I tell you 4cyl is best bro, is best lol

 

I just got my truck recently but I figured my input may still be of value to you. I started shopping for Tacos and only looked at 14+ v6 4x4s. I almost bought a new 16 TRD OR but was 2nd guessing it because of the miles i put on etc. Anyways, i saw a super nice, low mile 2.7 and figured i would test drive it just to see. I was only even interested based on some friends that have owned both 4cyl models and they rave about them being bullet proof. Long story short, I now own it. It impressed me enough (even test drove it on the Interstate before buying). I only haul light loads (MX bikes to the races being the heaviest) and it is fine. I do mild offroading in trails as well. So if the truck fits your needs and you find one you like, it is a great buy. But a V6 is also a great truck, obviously. I have been pulling about 21mpg lately and it is hot/humid and I have had the AC on mostly. I don't think I could do that in the 4.0. So that is an added bonus. I doubt you can go wrong with either, really. Good luck.

 

I have the 13" DC, 4x4, V6, 4.0, 6 speed manual with 56k and get 19.5mpg, I've owned a few 4 bangers and never will go back. The 4.0 is a strong choice, better to go big then wish you had latter.

 

One of the best things about the 2nd gen 4 cyl, is you can check the AT fluid easily.

Try that with a 2nd or 3rd gen problematic V6 sealed automatic transmission.

 

I've driven both and for my needs the 4cyl was fine. I had a reg cab 4x4 5 spd manual. I didn't trailer anything heavy, it was perfect.

 

I had a 2.7 hauled two dirt bikes, Jet skis and truck towed just fine. Only problem was climbing grades I would be doing 50mph. If you're fine with that the 2.7 is stout! Having a V6 I can't say I miss the 2.7. I also hated passing with the 2.7. Sometimes the ass cheeks were puckered so tight I could shit a diamond

 

yes

 

Thanks for all the input guys. I wish I had the time to respond individually to all the excellent advice here.


I feel like in my situation would definitely work for me, but as a person who buys and sells frequently I think I'll get tired of the lack of power and I'll be harder pressed to find a buyer for the i4 then the v6.

I'm still back and forth, as I could probably use it for a few years and then trade it in once I'm out of school on a newer Tacoma.

But then someone mentioned the diesel Tacoma... The likelihood of that is probably slim, but if I were to buy a Tacoma and then they came out with a diesel in the next 2-3 years I would not be happy.


And to answer the question yes, I did mean 6 cylinder. Haha

 

A 4banger is for grandpa to track the sheeps at the country side.

My v6 4x4 feels so shitty slow when I want her to get into work. However, with that being said, I'm pushing my truck like a mini sports car so that really isn't saying much...

 

#dipsticksmatter

 

My 2012 has the 4.0 and my father has a 2013 with the 2.7, I'm lucky to get 16-17 city and 21 highway. My dads 2.7 is always 25-26 highway and about 22-23 city. I have had more issue with my truck and my dads 2.7 has has zero...its been a flawless truck for him. Yes it doesn't have the grunt of the 4.0 but if you don't need it the 2.7 will treat you well.

 

This is good to know.

I travel about 80% highway. 25-26 is damn good!

 

That is what I have planned. Trying to wait on Ford to bring out the Ranger but may upgrade to a TRD Sport 2WD, Access Cab before then.

 

Ya that is good. My Interstate travel has a lot of hills, so that cuts my mpg down a bit. But I still don't mind it. Basically what sold me on this truck was it didn't feel too bad on power. The 4.0 I drove and the new '16 V6 had more but they are not power houses by any means. So that wasn't a big deal for me (even though the 4.0 has nice torquey feel, not taking credit away), the history of the 4cyl being bullet proof (having friends that have owned them and I know they aren't lying about how much they liked them), and the added mpg. Again, it isn't for everyone but if it fits your needs, I don't think you will disappointed. I already did some light trails in mine too. It was plenty. Fun truck.

 

Get the 2.7 if this suits you (preferrably a manual):
- easy to maintain, got loads of room to work underneath the hood, fewer parts to replace, no valve adjustments needed
- capable of good fuel economy if driven conservatively
- don't mind downshifting and revving the piss out of the engine to get the power you need (it can take it, engine is perfectly square)
- don't tow/carry really heavy loads

If any of these don't apply, get the V6.

 

I love my little 2.7. She's does 0-60 in about 3.2 years, but I love her.

♡

 

Appears you gave it somewhat of a workout:

 

These photos remind me...one of the best things about the 2.7l is the regular cab style.

Something about a regular cab Tacoma....mmm. Great looking truck.

Now, if you could find a compact regular cab first gen with the 3.4l V6...you'll be in business.

 

I've had both
I love my v6 more.

 

I have a 5 speed manual, but had forgotten that point regarding the second gen Tacoma, equipped with a 2.7 and an auto. - So, does anyone still manufacture a pick-up, equipped with an auto that still has a dip stick?

With regards to the four cylinder on a 4,000 lb truck, I've been driving a four banger for most of my adult life, so I know how to hold each gear longer through the RPM range and when downshift out of top gear when going up steep grades.