Debating a new Tacoma

Hi, everyone. 11 years ago, I was in the market for a new vehicle and I really wanted a quad cab Tacoma, but they were out of my price range, so I settled for a used Murano. It's been a great vehicle, but little things are starting to go wrong with it. I've been repairing them a little at a time. It's still my daily driver, but the wife wants me to get something new because she doesn't want me to break down, especially if our kids are in the car. Our income is a little better these days, so I've decided when I get something new, it will be a quad cab Tacoma, or perhaps a 4-runner. I've read some reviews and people say the Tacoma isn't suited for taller drivers. I'm 6' 1" and was curious if any tall owners on here are uncomfortable in theirs? Also read the automatic transmission is sometimes sluggish on shifting. These are the only bad things I've read and would like to know your feedback. Thanks!

 

Welcome!

I think they have mostly fixed the transmission (though I may be mistaken, as I have no experience with the 3rd gens). As far as comfort, an extended test drive is really the only way for you to answer that.

 

If you are taller, don't get the sunroof, it cuts a couple inches of headroom off.

 

4 Runner is often a better family choice. Depends on your hauling needs.

Test fit the whole family in a couple of both.

Then make significant test drives of both, so you don't wind up with surprises that a lot of folks seem to have.

While I'm sure you don't want to hear it, the Sienna is an awesome family choice too. Gets better MPG and will haul an amazing amount with the seats moved. Add a hitch and small trailer and the 'dirty stuff' you might haul is handled.

 

Welcome to TW! Go test drive anything that is an option for you and test it with your family. Plenty of 6ft+ tall people drive tacomas and are comfortable but it leaves very little room in the back seat. The back seats arent very big when the seats moved back for the driver to be comfortable if they are tall. I'm 5'11" and hate having someone sit behind me. I'm single with no kids so its not a big deal to me. I love my 17 double cab, enough room for my 2 dogs in the back seat!

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Just do it!
They are great trucks the 1st gen autos can be sluggish depending mods. Plenty of tall guys in 1st gens as well and the 2nd and 3rd gens are even bigger.

 

If you don't need a bed the 4Runner is by far the better vehicle imho. Good luck.

 

I'm 6'2 and can fit myself, my two brothers(both are 6'3-6'6) and my sister with her kids car seat and be completely comfortable.

 

6'3 and I'm perfectly comfortable. Once I figured out how to raise the rear view mirror I was perfectly fine.

 

You’d fit fine in a 2nd gen taco back seat might be a bit tight depending on how far back you push the seat back but it’s doable.

 

Your height won't be an issue and the transmission is fine. The truck is obviously more versatile. I use the bed all the time. I really can't remember how I got by without one (especially with the tonneau cover). That being said, if you'll never use the bed (unlikely) and if you can afford the more expensive vehicle, the 4 Runner might be a better option. I wouldn't trade my truck though.

 

Welcome to TW

 

Wow, thanks for all the replies! Very good info! We might go sit in a few and see how much room there is. We got 2 boys, 6 yo and 2 yo, so car seats will be in the back.

 

our house has both, tacoma (mine, I am 6'1or2") and wife has a 4runner.
truck fits me fine, i like the truck it does what i need it to. BUT if we are doing something with our son, we take the 4runner 90% of time. and to be honest, I like the 4runner more, between the engine, trans and ride, oh and awesome rear window, if my wife didn't have one i would.

as others have said, sit in them both. good luck.

 

Welcome to TW!!

 

Welcome aboard!

I am 6'3", 280 and I fit in my 19 Tacoma just fine. I am actually very comfortable.