2017 SR5 or 2015 Sport -HELP

I am about to purchase a 1st vehicle for my son. Tacoma is his dream car. We live near the beach and travel to the mountains frequently - he loves surfing & snowboarding. I’m having trouble deciding between the 2015 Sport or 2017 SR5. Not sure whether newer year/features greater benefit than towing/off-reading. Any other difference, other than gas mileage? Opinions anyone??

 

There were significant safety upgrades in the third gen. I was in a horrific accident with multiple vehicles including a large tow truck and while my truck was was absolutely destroyed, I walked away with a scraped knuckle. For that reason alone, I'd go with a 3rd gen. Plus the interior is nicely upgraded and since it's a 2017, it likely won't have the bugs that many of the '16's had.

 

For towing suggest get a V6 engine (more power). The OffRoad 4x4 has a locker which provides some advantage offroad, although not necessary to go offroad. My preference was to go with a double cab (4 seats), short bed (5 foot bed), 4x4.

 

I agree, go with the 2017 SR5, it has better safety features. The conveniences/gadgetry will be similar between an older Sport and a newer SR5, but the SR5 will "feel" more modern.

 

Whatever you decide, Welcome to TW.

 

Thanks! Safety #1 concern, so great points!

 

Welcome to TW!!

 

for the money for those, you can get a brand new 2019 SR 4x4 4 cylinder. they are a little slow, but have the safety features, and also maybe cheaper insurance. 3500 lbs towing isn't all that bad, as long as you know the limits

 

Welcome you and your son to the forum.
Very knowledgeable folks on here.
Any questions big or small just ask.

 

Welcome to TacomaWorld!

 

If they are about the same price, the 2017 is the better deal

 

As for the model level the sport has matching bumpers and the scoop, As far as safety the 2017 will be better up to date. You can’t go wrong with either both will provide years of faithful service if cared for.
Personally I’m biased for the 15 sport but the newer ones are fantastic.

 

I’ll be the contrarian: I upgraded from my 2000 Tacoma this year and test drove 2016-2018 Tacoma’s along with a 2015 Sport.

I chose the Sport because it was a proven, long term model. I have been glad I made that decision. Bulletproof in my opinion.

 

Welcome to TW

 

Update: the 2017 is Out - 92,000 miles no biggie, but fabric smelled like smoke and cigarette burn on seat. Also, stinky HVAC.

Other car is 2013 Sport. I know my son loves the look of this vehicle. Should I worry about safety of that year with a 16 year old newbie?

 

That model should be plenty safe. I’d have put my daughters in it given the safety equipment (airbags and such)

 

Welcome to TW!