Keep '09 Taco Or Go Gen 3?

I went from a 12 access cab 2.7 auto to a 18 double cab 3.5 manual 6 speed and it's night a day difference. The new truck is quieter, has way more power, much better stereo with nav and alot more comfortable. I chose the six speed manual because I tow a small trailer and didn't want to have to deal with overheating an auto tranny. The manual also comes with the free upgrade with leather interior. The truck is the same size as my old Tacoma. I have no regrets and love the truck.

 

Keep 2nd gen

 

TRy the Ridgeline, just getting in and out will sell it.

 

Rent a 3rd Gen and drive it for a few days to see if you like it. To many people ( some trolls....some just stupid) knock the 3rd Gen after buying it...interior not big enough, engine not good, hate the grill, not tried and true like the 2nd Gen, wind noise and whatever else...all things that they should have known about by TEST DRIVING it before paying 35k -40K for a new truck. I have a 2014 and have taken a couple of the 3rd Gens for test drives and LOVE them!! I just don't want a truck payment after having paid mine off. Some Toyota dealers offer a "Try it before you buy it" rental program... take one out for a weeks rental to be sure...cheaper than buying it first and finding out you don't like it. Just my .02...good luck

 

Keep until 2019 and see what the market looks like. I would be very interested to find out what Toyota will update the Tacoma with with the Ranger coming to dealer lots in 2019.

 

Owned an 05 and 08 Tacoma TRD OR 4X4. Bought a 17 TRD OR 4X4 Tacoma. My old Tacoma’s drove much better and smoother.

IMO The 17 Tacoma drives like sh*t. So keep your 09.

 

100p 3rd gen

 

Congrats on the retirement!

I totally agree with the extended test drive recommendation. 2-3 days of driving will probably make it an easy decision.

 

Oh, well in that case... treat yourself to a 2018 my friend. Good on you and good luck with whatever you choose. In my opinion, you can’t go wrong.

 

Uh, no. Too expensive, don't need a back seat, not a real truck and my local Honda dealership sucks.

 

^

I was going to vote for keeping the '09 especially in such good shape, paid off and with low mileage, but If you really want a change and financially getting a new one is not an issue for you, I would at least wait a year and see whats out there at that point.

 

I'm keeping my 2nd gen (2012) until the new drivetrain in the 3rd gens has been around longer and proven its reliability. I'm sure it will prove to be reliable...but I won't upgrade until I can say that in the past tense.

 

Well, at this point all I can say is to thank everyone for their input. I am overwhelmed with the information. I posted this thread thinking that there might be a big year end discount available. I am finding that is not the case with the Taco being one of their best sellers even with their 2017 left overs. Most everything is double cab and 4 x 4 which I don't want. So, with no end of year deals and nothing in a color I like I am sitting tight with my '09 for the time being. And I am ok with that. I really like my truck. I was just thinking I might like a new gen better but I am not even going to the dealer and have them badger me for months to trade.

BTW, while driving today I noticed the ODO was just under 47k so it was not as worn out as I posted at 49k earlier. I did have to change a turn signal bulb last year and wiper blades for the first time last summer.

Thanks again everyone. Happy New Year.

Rick

 

Wow, a turn signal bulb and wipers! I think you should head over to the dealer a complain and if you don't get any satisfaction call Toyota customer care.

The right choice is always what you think is best. Keep enjoying your Tacoma.

 

Maybe it depends on your experience with your own truck. I had an 09 and now a 16. The 3rd gen is incredible. I never ever looked back. I also owned a 16 f250 and a 15 JKU before this truck. The quality in the tacoma shits on the jeep, and is equal to my f250. In my opinion the options and quality and driving of the 3rd gen is much smoother and quieter than the second gen.