jesurfer here... reporting for tacos

Hi there.

I joined TW to find out all I could before pulling the trigger on getting into my first Taco. Currently I drive, and love, a 2000 Dodge Dakota Quad cab SLT. It is time to update.

Looking to get into a 3rd Gen TRD Sport, but am not necessarily married to that trim package. It seems like the best for my usage profile with regard to gas mileage and balanced capabilities.

I commute nearly 100 miles 3-4 days a week, and need to get around on some nasty job sites once in a while. Therefore, having the biggest baddest off road stance and equipment is not my main aim for a new truck, but reasonable off-roading capabilities are required.

Glad to be here with all y’all. I look forward to learning all that you can teach, and can’t wait to post my first new truck pics!

 

An AWD vehicle with a bit of clearance, like some Subies and even a RAV 4 would get you much better MPG. Of course that doesn't work if you actually need a truck, and if the job sites require more juice than one of those can give. Guess it depends on the job site. Both of those choices would also offer a lot of tech and a cost savings as well.

All that aside, assuming you need an actual truck, any model Tacoma will meet your off road requirement. The OR is a bit more robust with the rear locker and has more ride compliance, so a thorough test drive of each is in order to see what suits your needs. After that, it's all color and trinkets.

Don't completely discount the SR 4wd version either. Not as many bells and whistles, but several k lower cost too. With the same driveline.

Good luck shopping!

 

Welcome to TW !!

 

Good write up from Billy above^.And good luck!

 

YO! Thanks to ALL you guys for the warm welcome and feedback (esp. Clearwater Bill)!
The wife and I went to look at a couple on my list today so test drives coming up next week!
Later,
~Jes

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Howdy