Test Drive Tips

Forgive me for what may be perceived as a dumb question. But, here goes anyway. I think I’m in the market for a new Tacoma—possibly an SR5 (I’ve owned two), an OR, or a Sport. I’ve read here about the various differences in the three, but think a test drive of each might tell the tale. (I really like the cement color, don’t do any off-roading to speak of, and I’d like the smoothest ride. Will opt for 4D, 4WD) So coming to the dumb question: Any tips for how to conduct a successful test drive to really sort out the differences among these three Tacoma types? Seems like it’s easy to start talking to the sales person, hurry the process, and generally not get much out of the experience. Thanks for any thoughts! — JW

 

So when I did mine, I took it to an open parking lot and tested both acceleration and braking. Then tested the steering by weaving left and right at various speeds, then tested all of the 4wd.

The dealer I bought it from was right off the highway so I was able to take the on ramp and get onto the interstate for about two miles then exit and take some back roads back, like a loop so I was able to test it on multiple roads at various speeds, then did the parking lot test.

EDIT: Sport has stiffer suspension, OR has softer suspension and overall better ride. Dont know about the SRs

 

If you’re in a hurry or climb hills get the 6 cyl

 

I always get on a highway and give it a good run. If there are any hilly streets/highways, a good spot to go. The A/T takes a bit getting used to, so try some different situations.
I knew I wanted it before I test drove, so I am probably not the best source of info.
I have an OR, it rides fine on the roads. I think the bilsteins that it comes with are a tad softer then stock.

 

I test drove all three on your list and the Sport, which I purchased, had the best ride quality. The way to decipher the difference is to drive each model on the same road without any deviations and you should be able to feel the difference in each truck.

 

1. Make sure you fit comfortably.
2. Make sure the seat fits you for long drives.
3. Check vision and blind spots.
4. Check acceleration and shifting.
5. Take each one over speed bumps
6. Take each one around a curve at speed limit.

The above list is easy to check out on a test drive, yet are the most common noob complaints we see here. Good luck!

 

Get an extended or overnight test drive

 

Hit the "ect" and drive it like you stole it.

 

Drive it like you stole it . I have the off-road and really like the suspension. I felt the sport was harsh and I didn’t like the scoop getting in the way of my vision.

 

Best thing to do is tell the sales person to stop talking so you can pay attention to the truck.

 

I couldn’t help but laugh after reading your comment. There’s nothing like a little peace and quiet.

 

I guess I got lucky with my salesman. I told him EXACTLY what I wanted as soon as I walked through the door, and he didn’t speak during my test drive unless I asked a question or made a comment.


.....now his reaction to me mentioning my trade-in is a different story....

 

You all let the sales guy ride with you!

 

Blasphemy! Thou shalt not disparageth the skewp!



And to the OP, watch your salesperson.

A few have had the salesperson casually engage the ECT button before the drive to make the transmission shift better.

 

Just make sure you let the salesman know what you plan on doing during the test drive. Don't want to start accelerating then braking quickly, may stress out the salesman or you possibly could scare him enough and use that as a negotiation tactic.

 

I did something similar to what JoeCova did, but more on the interstate, I think most dealers will limit your test drive to less than 20 miles and no serious off roading in case something breaks, the dealers need to protect their investments and not going to allow more miles..

 

If that's a goal, don't get the Sport. Sure it will handle well, but you'll feel every bump, and that just gets old after a while. I ended up replacing my suspension with a set from an OR, as a lot of other Sport owners have done.

 

i would say to test drive a used one first (one that's been broken in) if you can, because i found mine to drive completely different at 10k miles than it did brand new, i.e. better.

 

I second this. I took mine one a test drive and loved it, so I asked if I could do an overnight test drive. They said they had to run my credit first to make sure I was a serious buyer and not some joy rider, but once they did that they had no problem with it. I kept it for about 24 hours and that really sealed the deal. Went back and purchased it and didn't have any regrets.