Buyer ?s

I am thinking of getting a new 2017 TRD off road DCSB. Will mainly use it to transport bikes and maybe a truck camper in the future. I have been looking all over this board but cannot find answers to some questions I have.

It is (almost?) impossible to test drive a manual, it would be great if somebody knows an option in or around Colorado Springs. Pretty sure I will like the manual better BUT all my other cars have some kind of downhill assist which I always use to back out of my steep and longish driveway when it snows, and the manual does not have that. My issue is if I like the manual that much better to miss out on crawl control. Also, the only way to get a manual is order one and wait 8-12 wks?

I would like to get a Softopper, I cannot find for sure if I can put 1-2 29" MTBs inside the SB topper (with the front wheels removed. Any info or pictures would be great.

I love the idea of a pop up camper, would like to get a used one, but I am confused on the max payload for the Tacoma since almost all of the campers will go over the weight. Saw about airbags in the rear (how much is that typically?) and does that really allow you to put 1200-1600Lbs in the truck + 2 adults +2 kids...

Looking forward to my first pickup, probably it will be a Sandstorm double cab (no options since I can live without all the tech and premium stuff), short bed, and most likely an auto since I cannot try a manual... The few test drives I did in a 2017 the auto seemed Ok, although it was hunting a little for gears in some situations.

Thanks for all the good info!

 

You need a real truck. I just lost, totaled, my 2010 F150 Crew cab long bed. I'm now driving a 17 TRD Sport. My friends have older Tacomas. The 3rd Gen is not as capable especially with the new drivetrain. You will be very disappointed.