Advice on 2016/2016 Trim

Hey guys, new here. If this has been answered, feel free to shame me and point me in the right direction. Looking to buy my first Taco and looking for some advice.

I live in Northern, CA and my max is $30k, but I might be able to stretch myself up to $33k if it makes sense. I am looking for access cab, 4X4. Likely 2015-2017. I want it mainly for Home Depot runs, and dirt roads to get to remote fishing spots/camping spots. I don't think I will be doing CRAZY off-roading, but I will be bummed if I have to turn around on the way to a stream because the truck can't handle it.

I was looking at the TRD Off-Road as the dream, but I don't know if I can swing the price tag. Do you think I would be fine with the SR5, 4X4 knowing that I won't be doing super crazy rock crawling? Should I bite the bullet and stretch myself thin for an Off-Road? Or would the TRD Sport be a better middle ground.

Thanks in advance for the tips, and the inevitable snark.

 

Get what you can afford comfortably. No need to stretch yourself thin for a truck. Honestly for the places you say you will be going, a 2wd will probably do just fine.
The real differences between the SR5 and Sport are all convenience, except the suspension, which the Sport will have a stiffer ride( I think).
Other than that its really not worth it if it will make things tight for you financially.
The TRD Off Road will have a locker and other features for Off Roading, but, again, for what you say you will be doing with it, if it will make things tight for you, the SR5 should do just fine.


Good Luck in your truck search

 

Sounds like you will be just fine with an SR5 4x4 since you probably won't use the e-locker, crawl mode, and MTS on the off road but if you can find a screaming deal on the TRD OR at $30k go for it but don't go outside your budget for one either.
You would be surprise how capable a stock SR5 is off road without the gimmick features.

 

My sr5 2wd no locker does ok. The locker would be great and the 4wd would be fantastic. I would personally go with the sr 4x4 and do all the extra upgrades for half price. All the stuff you need is right here on this forum for 1/2 or 2/3 cheaper. Wheels, tires, suspension. Members here remove that stuff on the upper models and you can just sweep in and pick it up and build a 27,000 dollar truck into a 34,000 dollar truck for around 30,000. Just my .02, get what your gut is telling you to, but don't go out on a limb and stretch yourself.

 

I would do the SR or SR5 either one in 4x4. Both will suit your needs.

Honestly get what your heart truly wants you won't regret it that way.

 

That is a good idea.
OP, here is the marketplace section so you can browse around and get an idea of what is available before you make the final decision.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/forums/3rd-gen-tacoma-parts-marketplace-2016.202/

 

I test drove the 2017 SR 4X4 yesterday, and that 4 cylinder seems to struggle. I worry about being able to make it on some of the dilapidated fire roads out in the sierras without the V6.

Thanks for all the help folks. I almost snagged a screaming craigslist deal on an Off-Road, but it already sold. Offloaded the old sedan yesterday, so the hunt continues with a bit more urgency haha. I think I have settled on a SR5 4X4 V6 with access cab. Maybe I will get lucky and find a great deal for something upgraded, but SR5 looks like the winner.

 

I would go for an SR or SR5 in a 2013, 14 or 15 year.

4wd, 4cly manual or v6 auto.

Several of the smaller convenience items that might be missing can be added over time, if you want them, because the truck is prewired for them.

Good luck shopping!