Potential TACO owner

Hey All, I have a few questions. I looking into buying a Tacoma Double Cab 4x4. I currently drive a 07 Civic so this will be a HUGE transition. But necessary, I have 3 furry children that I would love to travel with more often

With the rise in gas prices I would like to know What the true gas mileage is for these trucks? I know there are many variables to consider that change the mileage, altitude, driving style, in town, fwy etc.

Whats the average maintenance cost like? If I buy used should I stay away from a higher mileage taco?

How well do the interior materials of the dash and seats hold up over time? Seems like a lot of plastic on the interior of the 2nd gen, I am hoping its durable.

Any info offered will be tremendously helpful.

 

Welcome from TN!

I have a ’07 4wd double cab short bed(5’ bed) and stock i got about 18 to 20 mixed driving.(city highway.) i have sense got 1 size bigger tires and a heavier tire and lost about 1MPG. Also i have lost a little, mpg because of my right foot.

if you get the oil changed and everything done when it’s suppose to you should not have any really problems. Some guys have problems but i think a lot of it has to do with most people having done after market stuff.
also plastic holds up pretty good to scratches. I only have one scratch and it’s from putting my stereo in the wire cutters slipped and hit the dash. seats if your worried about them get some really good seat covers. i don’t have any tears or anything. and I use my truck quite a bit for moving stuff, and doing everything i need.(towing hauling, camping hunting)

also with the kids, the storage under and behind the back seat is really nice! i have all of it pretty full of all kinds of stuff. extra shirt, jackets, few tools.

 

Not to be insulting, but why do you need 4x4? Seems like if you are driving a civic, you probably don't need it now. It will only cost more, plus potential problems can cost a bit..

 

if 4wd is used properly you should never have problems. other then wear and tear. and only thing is maybe diff fluid and stuff. dad ’00 tundra has like 200,500K+ on it and no 4wd problems and we use the shit out of it. and work the truck beyond it’s limits more then once.

 

I don't find that insulting. I don't necessarily need a 4 x 4. I would like to have it because there are places I can't take my civic