Thinking about a 2017 Tacoma but maybe I should wait??

My first post here. I posted the following to several forums I belong to:

I want a new Tacoma

" I'm 68 and looking to buy my last truck. I've had 4X4's all my life and have even hand built some very capable rigs. The line up goes like this: SR, SR5 TRD Sport, TRD Off Road, Limited, TRD Pro. I'm kinda thinking either the TRD Sport, Off Road or possibly the Limited. As far as options I we want: Entune nav/audio, upgraded trim with alloy wheels, tow package, double cab. Things I don't need: moon roof. I'm not sure about the Technoligy package. It's a $3,000 option and includes dual climate zone, heated seats, rear parking assist, blind spot monitor, auto headlights, and moon roof.

The truck will be used for some camping trips, general utility work and for going to and from our vacation home that's about 3 hours away. No rock crawling or anything radical. We also have a new Highlander which is the first foreign car we've ever had (ya, I know it's made in the the states). We live in The Dalles Oregon, the winters are generally mild except for last winter when we had snow on the ground for 3 months.

I need to get the purchase right and don't want to have regrets down the road. Thanks"


My responses were very negative. Owners told me of the recalls, crap transmission, differential issues, sluggish engine, etc. Apparently, the 3rd gen trucks have a host of problems and Toyota is still trying to get it right (I'm sure they eventually will). I've spent a life time driving Fords but just recently bought a Highlander for the wife. I need to replace a Ranger but they don't make them anymore. I'm thinking now a 2018 would be a better bet. What's your thoughts?

 

Ridgeline

 

What's your budget?

 

$40,000ish

 

4Runner + trailer.


If you really want a Tacoma, go test drive several, including any used ones on the lot. Since you seem to be aware of some issues, see if they are present. Then make your decision.

 

I've had the trd sport manual trans no tech package or no sunroof. My first Tacoma at 54 years old. Had 4runners for past seven years. Love it. No issues. I've had it now for a few weeks and two thousand miles. Good luck!

 

We all know opinions are like assholes...

But my opinion, avoid 3rd gen

 

4Runnner... Engine & transmission are tried & true tested.

If you definitely want a truck, just get the Tacoma, it'll all be fine. I like mine a lot, of course I've dropped almost 5k in parts for it so far, but that's neither here nor there.

Get the JBL technology package, you won't be sorry.

 

I would think we can take the Pro off the table. You're not desert running. I personally don't like the Limited, but it's definitely more "luxurious." The TRD Sport and OR both have some "comforts" that the SR5 doesn't. Since the Sport and the OR are basically the same price and the OR has more features, I think you should take a look at the OR.

 

2018 with manual transmission

 

Yes, I test drove the Off Road today although it was just 5 miles of pavement. I liked it.

 

2nd vote for Ridgeline.

 

these threads usually go well

 

Welcome fellow Oregonian! I bought a 2017 Tacoma off road with tech package from Kendell Toyota in Bend and I'm very happy with my new truck. I've had absolutely none of the issues you find people talking about here and I've run a VIN check and there are zero recalls on my truck. The day I drove it home from Bend (March) there was practically a white out over Mt. Hood and it performed great. When no other cars were around I slammed on the brakes and it was very well behaved on the snow. I'm 61 and like you have owned a lot of different brands but I've always had the best luck with Toyotas, no they are not perfect but best I've owned.

 

Personally my 17 off-road has been good no problems with the automatic transmission or motor. I think it would have been about perfect with the 4.30 gears from the manual transmission.

 

Seriously go test drive a Ridgeline. My dad drives a Pilot, I think it's perfect for the type of stuff you're looking to do and probably more comfortable.

 

I would recommend waiting I think it's an OK truck but really overpriced for what you get...the quality is down a bit on these trucks you see it every day here with tons of issues and all the recalls. Also I think the truck is just underpowered. If they made a supercharger or turbo I would love to install one. The truck needs more PEP! It just feels like a 4 cylinder

 

People are scrambling for ways to make the truck drive/shift/behave better. Look at the shiftsense Pro aftermarket shift controller. People are clamoring to get their hands on one. Tells you all you need to know about this truck IMO.

 

You're 68, and you claim that this will be your last truck. Go out with a bang and buy a Ford Raptor. It's your last years. Live them out in style.

Colorado Zr2 is another good pick.

 

You know you want one too... Don't be bashful.