We've come full circle, i remember watching Jacks first review of this vehicle and asking myself "Did Mark lose it finally, who is this new schmuck?". I can definitively say that Jack is as synonymous with Savagegeese to me as uncle mark is now . Jack's contribution to this channel has been phenomenal and the passion and drive that he' put in to help it grow has been nothing short of exemplary. You've done an amazing job Jack and i think we can all say we're super proud. A silverback was exactly what this channel needed.
@@MikeinAustin they're only perceived as status by people who can't afford or don't want to buy one... as with all material things in that context. house, car, pool, other toys- list goes on.
I'm fond of saying that the new / current Tacoma is never the best Tacoma. If you want a small truck, the first-gen is best. If you want a bigger engine, the second-gen (4.0L vs 3.5L) is best. It's hard to see how this platform will be improved by the upcoming 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder for any of the reasons that people buy trucks. It will help Toyota's CAFE numbers. When your goal isn't "building the best truck you can", what's the value proposition to me as a customer? I say this as a former '99 Tacoma / current '06 Tundra owner. For "truck stuff" there is no reason to buy these newer trucks.
The looks are the best and the coolness factor is the other thing, I had a 07 Tacoma when it was the current body style with really good looking wheels and some other cool stuff that made EVERYONE ELSE think the truck was the greatest thing ever, however I gradually got sick of the bumpy ride and ridiculous wind noise and some other annoying stuff that didn’t exist in the GMC canyon so I got rid of it but I want a new Tacoma in 24 if they change it enough otherwise will have to go with the competition. The problem is as long as everyone thinks Tacomas are cool it’ll continue to sell, I want people to wake up so Toyota can change win back my loyalty, I remember when the first Tacoma came out it was head and shoulders above the competition legitimately. I’d like to see that again.
Appearance was honestly one of the bigger deciding factors for me when buying my Tacoma. When compared to all the other mid size trucks and even the 1/2 tons, the Tacoma is by far the best looking of them all. While I think certain years of F250/Silverado 2500 look slightly better than my Tacoma, I definitely didn't need a 3/4 ton truck for what I use it for, especially as a daily driver.
I always thought so. The Ranger is obviously made for international markets and always looked too smooth. I think they made the right choice in separating the Tacoma from Hilux
These are stupidly popular on the Front Range in Colorado. Having a Tacoma goes hand in hand with trips to the climbing gym, overnighting at Trail Heads, and throwing mountain bikes in the bed. This is the dominant truck of the Southwest.
Its dominant in most places dude. I'm in Ohio and I would say about 70% of midsize trucks are Tacomas. My aunt lives on the big island in Hawaii and apparently Tacomas make up about 80-90% of ALL pickup trucks. They're stupid popular.
In 12 years of Tacoma ownership, the only “somewhat unexpected” maintenance repairs I had to spend money on were a battery and new tires! That was on my now defunct 2012 Tacoma that I sadly lost during Harvey. I replaced it with a 2018 Raptor and regretted that decision almost as soon as I got home. The darn thing would not fit in my standard two car garage. When doing Baja runs to Walmart, parking was a task in it of itself! Given its hard to live with size, I decided that if I wanted something sporty I’d be better off purchasing something like a corvette or Porsche. I don’t need a truck to pretend to be anything else. I sold my Raptor and purchased a 2020 Tacoma TRD pro army green. It’s been like peas and carrots. Fits me like a glove, and it doesn’t pretend to be a sports car, a Bentley, nor an iPhone on wheels. It’s a reliable, cool, and fun tool that never breaks…that’ll probably outlive me.
I think people underestimate the "status symbol" of the tacoma. It's crazy to think about it that way, but in the south these things are basically only used as mall crawlers but the capability and old school cool the Tacoma offers makes it nill to cross shop. Most I know didn't even consider other trucks in its class - all about that brand recognition. It also looks better and more brutish than a ranger. And I say this as a rivian owner.. it has an "it" factor.
It’s really a lot different in other parts of the country that have more land for off-roading (e.g. west of the Rockies 80% of land is park land). People actually use Tacomas for off-roading out here, and there are a lot of them. Certainly not a status symbol any more so than a Camry or other common car.
I'd argue that it's the Toyota reliability that is the main appeal for these trucks. The horror stories of ford, ram and chevy issues contrasts heavily with the fact that you likely will be able to own a tacoma for 10+ years and never experience any major issues.
I just traded a 2020 ranger for a 23 sr 4x4 Tacoma. Tacoma does ride better while not as quick, I feel I made a good choice. The ecoboost in the ranger kept putting fuel in the oil even after changing the hp fuel pump and an injector that was bad. You would see in about 1500 miles the oil level would be up a 1/4 on the stick. The Tacoma runs great not looking back!
@JoMaHa you were right on the first part of your comment, but the Tacomas are definitely a symbol that Camrys or any other regular car can't have, same as 4Runners
Legacy owner here! 🙋🏻♂️ Came from mostly domestics (dodge, couple ford’s, a couple GM’s) caved into buying a 4cyl Toyota Camry to save my buns after some poor financial mistakes, ended up falling in love with Toyota as a brand. Now the proud owner of a 2022 Tacoma TRD Off-Road 👍
you guys hit the nail on the head. As a tacoma owner of 16 years (my 2nd gen) there's just no bs electronics to worry about, and all the maintenance you can do yourself with half a brain and back.
@JJ Black no, the 4. I remember taking off the front wheel and/or wheel well was my routine. Getting hands or tools on it was hard, definitely remember that. I normally hand tighten oil filters on all cars, trucks, and motorcycles with no problems. That tacoma made me buy a few oil filter wrenches, none of which worked well.
As a salt belter, I would gladly exchange a ton of tech that's in cars these days (not as much in this Tacoma) for long lasting underbody coating and front facing ppf. Make it reliable, easy to work on, and easy to keep looking decent.
Easy to work on? But @starkyslp16, don’t you want over-the-air-updates to improve your truck’s security, add games and better facebook integration; or to be able to pay $3,000 to unlock a new feature in your car that physically exists in it but you’re unable to use it cause you’re being pay-walled by a company? Think about it
@@MrSandChess eucchh, god, you just described my nightmare. A nightmare that's actually reality now, and every car company has the corporate asshats pushing this shit.
I've got a 1999 Tacoma 2.7 with just over 220k and the build of the Tacoma is a legacy in itself. These trucks may not be the powerhouse compared to what is out there now, but for what they are, these trucks are extremely capable. Mechanically I haven't had a failure besides the alternator going out, I suspect my 1st gen will continue on for another 100k.
I don’t know, I had 2.7 and I totally hated that engine. I do miss older 22re. It was slow and reliable. Ever since mid 2000s I stoped owning Tacomas. Too expensive for what it is, full size trucks were better in every way.
Just purchased a 2023 off road 4x4. Major reason is reliability. Love the back up camera and apple car play is enough for me. In my 30s not looking to race anyone anymore. Loved the review.
If you’re 70 miles into Big Bend or camping in the middle of nowhere, you want reliability. I’ve got a 3rd gen 4Runner with 300K. I’d still take it anywhere.
@@MikeinAustin word. I'm buying a 2023 4Runner. There is no substitute. I go to the middle of nowhere and I always want to come back. For example, I am planning on driving to the arctic ocean by way of Canada next year. 6000 mile round trip, half of which is through very very remote areas. Toyota is the tool for a job like that. I'll take my 17mpg, and I'll take my perfect reliability too. People seem to like this strategy, look at how absolutely insane resale values are on Tacomas and 4Runners. Speaks for itself.
@@thatoneotherotherguy This is a great channel for Toyota fans. He talks about how this is mostly the exact same vehicle from 2010. And he talks about why people like it and why people don’t. Makes me want to buy a 2023 4Runner before they “modernize” it. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-ZDGAe8DOmck.html
I own a 2021 Tacoma Off Road. This is my third Toyota pickup that I’ve owned: 1984 with the 22R engine, a 1998 Tacoma with a 5 speed manual transmission, and my current Tacoma. Toyota knows it’s customer base. It outsells all of the other midsize trucks. They’re doing something right.
@@AkioWasRight I own a 2019 Tacoma Off-Road. I never had a Toyota before this, never owned a truck before this. Chose the Tacoma because at the time it was by far the best option. You wont convince me that the Colorado of 2019 was better or the Frontier or the Ridgeline. Will I buy another Tacoma? No.
Watching this in my '19 Tacoma TRD Sport that I plan on giving my newborn son when he turns 16. My dad gifted me his 2002 Camry V6 for my first car and I absolutely loved it. That's why you buy a Toyota.
This comment can apply to all new cars: The fact that it doesn’t have a monster touchscreen with all the functions having to go through a touchscreen is a huge plus. Legacy/physical buttons and knobs are all I would need. Especially driving alone, taking your eyes off the road to change HVAC settings is ludicrous. All that being said, if I bought one I would undercoat the shit out of it with spray on WoolWax like I just did to my 2002 Lexus ES300 w 173k miles.
I remember when I first bought my 2011 2nd gen I looked at Tacomas as being mostly hype. I took my truck on a 10 day 6k mile blitz out west, packed like a mule when it had 180k miles. Not a single hiccup. That’s when I joined the cult.
Son has a '15 Tacoma. Comfortable to me and I'm gettin old. I have a '19 Tundra. Rented a newer Tacoma TRD off-road last year. My Tundra and the newer taco gear hunt way more than the '15. It's annoying BUT, they don't break and leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere. They just work which is priceless. Getting a new 4 Runner this year before they ruin that too.
You hit one of the nails on the head with “some ppl want a vehicle that doesn’t need to be f’ed with”-but if you do want to f with your vehicle then the Tacoma is also an excellent and robust platform for building out the custom truck of your dreams. Simplicity + reliability make it easy to tweak without breaking it and the rabid fanbase means that the aftermarket and knowledge base are enormous for the number of Tacomas out there. If you want to change any element of your Tacoma somebody either made a guide or product to enable you to do it.
One huge knock I've always had against these trucks is the powertrain they went with, surely in the name of EPA mpg ratings and CAFE standards. The 3.5L V6 and 6-speed are a dog in these trucks. Stangely, the prior gen 4.0L V6 and 5-speed automatic have superior driveability, even with 1 fewer gear. One positive of the current outdated 4Runner is this strangely superior combination still being available. From what I've seen, the 4.0L is thirsty on paper, and the 3.5L V6 is better on paper and just as thirsty in the real world. Every 3rd gen Tacoma on 33" tires I've ever heard of reported atrocious mileage, like what you would expect with a 5 or 6 liter V8. I'm buying a new 4Runner, and am happy to get the ancient drivetrain. Would be interesting to hear you guys review the absolutely ancient 4Runner one last time before the generation is up, preferably in a non-TRD PRO trim. One of the oldest architecture vehicles on sale today. Best I can work out, the engine is from 2003 (with a 2010 update), chassis is 2003, transmission is 2005, transfer case is 2003, body is 2010, spiced up with modern infotainment and driver assists. Old old old!
Agree with everything you said. Much prefer the 4.0 and 5 speed. I think that’s why so many people buy 4Runners and more so 5th gens, you know what your getting into.
For me, my '21 trd off-road crew cab with a 6-speed manual trans is the best truck I will ever own. I love the look and sounds, and how it drives. I will drive it till the wheels fall off. Living in the southwest, I don't have the rust problem as others. What lasts in the salt belt? I owned an '83 with a 5-speed in the '80s. '90 with a 5-speed in the '90s. Bought other brands through the years and all their problems. I came back full circle and bought another Toyota truck with a manual, 6-speed. I am fortunate to have found it. This is probably an end of an area..? To me, Toyota has a massive following because they built the best trucks ever made.
Still the highest volume selling in the midsize truck category. I think everyone underestimates how many people really want a “shovel” truck. I believe firmly that there’s a market for common man vehicles with basic features and reliability. There’s a market gap and even this isn’t it wholly.
My dad bought a TRD Sport back in early 2022 and actually paid MSRP for it, albeit he went to a rural Toyota dealership in a town called Bishop, so they where not marking up the Tacoma since they are located in a small town with no other towns nearby for at least almost 100 miles, but If I wanted a midsize pickup truck with the ultimate reliability and cult following I would get a Tacoma, i driven the Tacoma a few times and I love it and that V6 motor is nice for being a V6 , has very nice power and smooth, i drive a 07 V6 Camry so same family of motor
Mark nailed the user case: I picked up a 2022 base SR model extended cab with the 2.7-4cyl, and the only options are 4wd. It does NOT have the utility package that removes the rear jump seats, sliding rear window, pained trim, ect so I can haul 4 in a pinch. It rides horribly, the seating position is not great and the transmission can only be used in the tow/haul mode unless you want to be punished. Why did I buy it? I don't drive a whole lot, and I got sick of and dealing with car BS and loosing $ on them. This thing is reliable, simple (has apple car play, 4wd, hot heat and cold a/c which is all I require) and is just so incredibly simple/serviceable when you open the hood. It will tow my 6x10 cargo trailer to take my motorcycles to the track days, as well as haul the other stuff that comes up on a weekly basis. Also, at $31,500 it's a steal in todays market (and I paid sticker, like Mark does on his Hondas). I sprayed a whole bunch of fluid-film underneath the first week of ownership, and picked up some like new Tacoma TRD-offroad wheels/tires from Facebook for not much money, so it no longer looks like a base model. My biggest complaint is that the 4-cylinder models don not come with a tow hitch or wiring, so I had to do that myself which is unacceptable on any truck...
Ultimate reliability! That pretty much sums this up. I had a 1996 Tacoma with a manual that I got certified used in 1997 with around 14k miles. Sold it in 2017 with over 330k miles on it. A few parts had to be replaced only after 270k miles, but it still had the original engine and drive-train. It was running fine when I sold it. It was the vehicle I owned the longest, and the most reliable one I ever had so far.
I don't know what a nicer riding truck is like, never test drove the other mid sizes. I just I wanted this because I love the look and reliability that goes with it. Love the simplicity of it.
I bought a 2019 TRD sport with a 6 speed manual. Added leather, TRD PRO 4 Runner wheels, 33 BFG tires , full Fox 3 inch suspension lift with reservoirs , TRD PRO grill, exhaust, intake, tonneau cover, Alpine car play head unit, kicker speakers , jl audio subs, Rockford amp….. yeah cool truck. I’ve never been asked so much about a car than that one. 31,700 plus about 8 grand in upgrades and labor.
I bought up a new 22 Tacoma last year for all the reasons highlighted here. Originally I wanted the new Tundra, but opted for the Tacoma because of the supply chain issues, markup and rising interest rates. No regrets really. Being my first truck, it does what I need it to do. Coming from small and fun coupes and sedans, it's definitely a different experience.
I have a 22 Tacoma SR5. I realize it’s “shortcomings” but it doesn’t matter to me. I love the truck. It does everything I need it to. I actually love the simplicity of it.
The tool comparison is exactly why I have mine. My wife and I walk and bike for the majority of our commute to work or school with our kids. For a vehicle we just wanted something that could take our family on ski and camping trips safely and through all weather conditions. My Tacoma does everything I ask of it with zero drama. The six foot bed loads up with my tall boi skis super well and swallows our tenting setup. Also by being such a narrow truck it’s a breeze getting around compared to my old F150 since I live on an island. Ferry rides, tiny roads and small parking sports are way less stressful.
If you get your truck undercoated with oil type coating like Krown or any of the others, it may last. NOT painted, it has to be oil based. I have had my 17 Tundra Krowned every year and it is spotless underneath, and I live in North East.Every time I take my truck for an oil change, the mechanics are very impressed. I really hope the new Tacoma isnt all talk like the new Tundra.
I’m glad someone finally mentioned the gear hunting in the transmission! It’s either played off or never mentioned, but it was the biggest reason I disliked the driving experience in them. It’s unfortunate that there seems to be an unwritten rule with transmission options in the midsize truck segment that they all need to be unrefined, unreliable, or boring. Hopefully the newer generations fix these issues
I bought my '23 TRD Off Road in August and I have loved every minute of it. Solidly built, no rattling interior plastics, and I can always count on it, just like my old '04 SR5 Tundra. I have no doubt I'll be driving this truck in 20 years from now. There's something to be said for the reliability and peace of mind that comes from owning a vehicle that you don't need to worry about. It's just a simple, honest truck with no gimmicks or flashy features that will break and be costly to fix.
Your reviews are always great and relevant:)! I can’t speak about the desirability or reliability of Tacoma trucks currently for sale. But, I bought a 2014 Tacoma and drove it in mountainous terrain and after 3 years of beating up on that vehicle…sold it back to Toyota who paid me $6,000.00 above my initial purchase price:)! To me that’s why I buy Lexus and Toyota products. Top that Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford whoever…
I’m working in India and the company uses a Toyota van to ferry us back and forth to the giant Petro chemical facility. These vans have a diesel engine in them and some of these have 350-400,000 km on them. When you think of these are beaten to death on Indian roads and never stop running 24 hours a day it’s impressive. Say what you like about them but they just last forever 🤷♂️🤷♂️🤷♂️
I lived in Ghana for awhile and Toyotas keep the country running! 15 year old Toyota HiAce vans overloaded by a thousand pounds or more, driving in the hot Africa sun for 12+ hours, 300k+ kilometers on them, and still going strong. That's not counting the Hiluxes over there either, that we all know the reliability stats on.
I have been a Tacoma owner now for 10 years, and the only I can tell you is what someone else wrote on a Tacoma forum...."Reliability is the ultimate luxury." My truck is not the biggest the strongest, heck mine is just a 2wd, maybe not the most comfortable. But it does everything I need it to as a truck, and it is treated as a truck. I go to more than just the mall in it, and it has some dings, and scratches and lumps. But it always works, and there is something (especially in today's world) of the simplicity that is inside of it. A nod to the line here..."your enjoyment is based on your perspective." Excellent Video as always.
I'm an outdoorsman and I spend lots of time in the field. A solid, well built truck is probably the most important piece of equipment that myself, and those like me, will ever own. I cross shopped the Tacoma against my '16 F150 and I came very close to purchasing one but steered clear for reasons that you've state. Price point, unrefined drive train/towing/fuel economy, long distance comfort versus my full size, rather basic half ton. Also one thing you forget to mention is the huge aftermarket parts and suspension industry for this platform.
ive had my 2018 taco for 5 years and it hasnt been to the shop a single time, aside from things like alignments, tire balance/mount. if your ford can survive 5 years without going to a shop for a repair then you made a good choice, otherwise youll be paying for your decisions. theres a reason why this is the number one midsized truck.
I bought my 2020 TRD off road right when the pandemic started and they were giving discounts on them. I was also living in New Hampshire at the time so no sales tax as well. All in im about 45,000 in with fox suspension with lift, gearing, leaf springs, skids/sliders, wheels/35 inch tires and overland gear but its still cheaper than a TRD PRO today in most places.
On my 2nd tacoma 99 and now 2012. I'm not a mom or a soccer player so I don't care about excessive amenities , nor do I tow. I like simple trucks that work. Toyota is the best at it.
2022 Tacoma owner. You are spot on. I didn’t buy it for any advanced features. It’s got Apple CarPlay and blind spot monitoring so it’s advanced by my standards. The truck just works. The 2GR is an outstanding engine even if it sucks away fuel. If you want to make TikTok videos of your fly ride, this is not the truck for you. Go lease a Maverick or whatever else is trendy.
Good to see Jack get another shot at the Tacoma TRD Pro! While Toyota may not live or die based on North American truck sales, I imagine that the Hilux is important to the company.
My dad had a Taco for a number of years and while I never really liked the drive it was dead nuts reliable and had almost 0 maintenance bills even for being a 12 year old truck. I wasn't the biggest fan of the bed size so I think if I were to buy one it would be a 2 door and 6 ft bed. The old tech is a plus for me since I prefer to do all my repairs/maintenance and always found this platform very shade tree friendly w/ lots of resources.
I picked up my 2023 TRD Off-Road Manual Transmission with only a 3 month wait. I'm not sure if the Manual Transmission would be in the new model, so I moved on getting the 2023. As for why I got it, I needed something for truck like duty and it keeps my sporty car off the road in New England rust inducing Winters.
Just bought an electric lime TRD off-road with a manual transmission. I didn't wanna miss out on one of the last manual trucks. Also, I owned a manual jeep a while back, fool me once...
I think you nailed the review. I own a 2021 Tacoma TRD Sport with the 6ft box, and have also owned a 2008 access cab (which rusted terribly, and yet sold for the same as I paid for it when I upgraded). The TRD Sport is a bit better on the highway than the TRD Pro, but not much. It's very uncomfortable and uninspiring for long drives, so much so that I ended up buying a 330e to daily drive. I now rent this Tacoma out on Turo and it does really well... and when I want to go on a camping trip down many miles of logging roads, I can do that, too. I've never had to do anything but oil changes so far... Also, not sure if you mentioned it, but the residual values of the Tacomas are unparalleled.
I bought a '22 Tacoma TRD Pro (functionally the same as the '23), last September, to replace my '07 Tacoma TRD Sport. The old truck was 15 years old, and had 186k miles and always ran, never stranded me, and held up really well. Love the new truck so far, plan to own for 10+ years. Looking forward to doing some more intense off-roading with it this year.
Keep an eye on the high pressure fuel pump. Mine failed at 30k miles. Replaced under warranty, but pricey work if out of warranty. Edit: i should be clear, my truck is a 2016, had the hpfp replaced in 2018, and been fine since. Keeping the truck, no worries :)
@@joeracer302 Thanks, I appreciate it. At the risk of sounding dumb, what's the best way to keep an eye on it? Any symptoms to look for? Thanks for your help!
@@FredsFullThrottle as you’re probably aware as a longtime Toyota owner, Toyota motors have a tick to them. It is normally loudest when cold on startup, then gets quiet and mostly goes away once the motor warms up. I think this is the fuel injectors and not valvetrain sound, but that’s just what I’ve been told by others and I’m by no means an expert. However, that tick is normal characteristic of Toyota motors. When the HPFP is failing it starts to make a similar tick sound, but much louder and it does not go away when the motor warms up. I noticed it when I would pull into my garage and it echos off the walls, the tick was very loud and since it was there once the motor was warm I knew it was not the normal Toyota engine tick. I think it also increased in frequency with engine rpm, i.e. the tick got faster as the engine revs up. Either way, if you notice an abnormal loud engine tick that is persistent with warm motor and increases in speed with engine rpm, be sure to get that checked out 😊
Have a 2020 Trd Off-Road, bought it with 8 miles on it, have 52k on it currently. Came from a focus ST, GTI Sport, and a dodge charger prior to it, so naturally I was shocked at how awful it is to drive lololol. Many times I looked at trading it for an f-150 or a RAM, but there she is still, in my driveway. This truck has gotten me into and out of countless situations in the woods, on the beach, in the snow, in the mud, in the home depot parking lot, and through the local drive through. Recently built my deck this past fall, using my truck to haul the lumber. 5 foot beds are capable of something lol. It does get small really quick when its loaded with my wife, my dog, and I for a road trip, but at the same time we say, look what we fit into our truck and did not need a full size. It still fits into parking spaces downtown and my wife loves to drive it if needed. I will say this, the gear hunting is REAL. Had the KDMAX tune done to it at around 30,000 miles and wished I did it sooner. Holds the gears a little longer and keeps the RPMs in the powerband, all the while making cruise control somewhat usable. I call it my apocalypse vehicle as I know it will also start for me and keep my family safe.
Final comments, all truth. Mine turns 7 this year...no issues. Three more points...it tows great, easily fits in my garage and my wife has no issue driving/parking it.
I think the current Nissan Frontier is a great blend between new and old. To be fair it still has the old school design, steel components and last gen tech but it's in an acceptable middle ground, where the ride is refined enough, the tech is comprehensive enough and the driving dynamic is smooth enough for day to day driving. Plus a decent reliability record. Definitely one of my favorite mid size trucks right now.
I was just thinking the same thing when I ran across your comment…I just looked at the Frontier this week and it’s very competitive, and will stand out more when the new Tacoma is no longer available with a six cylinder.
bigger thing is nissan trucks are actually really solid on reliability, unlike ford and less so chevy. if i was going for a truck even though i hated the nissan car i had (rouge) id seriously consider the frontier
Agree. At least Nissan didn't screw the truck with a "modern" turbo and CVT. Only real concern is if the DI engine will require a catchcan to stay clean but that is a fairly easy and inexpensive job.
I disagree with statements on ride and handling and it definitely does not shake and shudder. I have a TRD sport 4x4 and it is a great handling truck. In beautiful bluecrush. I get so many compliments is amazing. Long Live Toyota Tacoma.
I know it's probably illegal these days with all the safety requirements, but a return to the small & simple 1st Gen would earn my business again. I own a 20 year old 1st gen and have spent a good bit of time in the 3rd gen as well as the 2nd. I'll take a 1st before either of the new ones any day unless I'm mostly driving it on the highway. The Gen 3 does have superior road manners at higher speeds.
My dad still has the gen 1 Tacoma (1996) that he bought brand new and that I learned to drive on as a teenager. 355,000 and is still his daily driver. Not a single major issue with it. I’ll probably teach my daughter to drive on it!
@@spacedoutcowboy5211 the GM coating is good for a couple years, then it starts to flake and trap rust behind it. It then has to be removed to put a real coating on. It is not a good example of what manufacturers should do.
None of the new trucks had the issue to start. It was older trucks that had their frames manufactured by Dana corp. The same company that builds the F150 frames even today. They used substandard coatings which caused the issue.
Umm Toyota sells around 200,000+ tacomas per year, substantially more than other makes. So evidently, people absolutely DO want a simple dead nuts reliable mid size truck vs a refined comfy luxobarge with a giant iPad in the dash
Ordered a 2020 offroad premium 4 doors. Got it after 6 months of wait time. Really loved almost everything about it. Except the driving position. No head room (i’m tall) and the legs positions also was not for me. Kept it for 15 months. Put 56,000km on it. Changed for a v8 Silverado a year ago. Same gas mileage which is a funny but a LOT more space inside. Missing the crawl control. Also, sold the tacoma more than I bought it… 2021-2022 were crazy years.
Modern Toyotas receive way too many free passes due to public perception that they're so much more reliable than other makes. The reality is that most new vehicles are perfectly capable of running to 200k miles if properly maintained and can do so while offering vastly better occupant safety ratings, not to mention comfort and convenience features.
@Matt hew isn't Nissan's 4 cylinder in the Frontier notorious for making it to like 500k pretty easily and people have made it over a million miles with?
Ridgline and Maverick aren't contenders. Frontier would be my first choice. Then again, I bought a Jeep Gladiator Altitude. It has its own quirks but nothing quite like it.
Went Ridgeline after testing all the midsize offerings. Every other one was awful for a daily, except the Ridgeline. The Tacomas seating position was so bad, I didn’t even test drive it.
@@agaad22 same here. Drove a trd pro just like this one, the gmc/chevy offerings, the Fords and the frontier last. They were all terrible next to my Ridgeline.
How many people do you know that have the same story about the SR5 fuel injected 6 paired with the Tacoma? I bought mine in 2000, drove it for 276k until the frame links to the bed rotted away and the main manifold gasket leaked. It was STILL drivable. Was it an appliance? Yes. Was the style outdated once I sold it after 17 years? Yes. I kept driving it because in those 17 years, the truck only presented me with a single unscheduled repair to pay for, to the tune of $900. It's what counted to me. Probably does to many of the other millions who bought one of these too.
Since I was a child I loved the Toyota tacoma. I wanted the old 2014 model when I Was a kid. Little did I know my 2nd car would be a 2016 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off road that I save up and paid for. 32,000 $ later and 70,000 more miles and she's just as good as the day I bought her. I could not be happier 😊
The interesting thing for me is what Toyota will do for the 2024 redesign I agree with Marc, I don’t think the average Tacoma buyer wants full LED displays everywhere
My neighbor has the absolute base model and uses it to tow his rusted tracker fishing boat and fills the bed with landscape rocks. My co worker has a lifted TRD Pro with a light bar and takes it to the bars
Just bought a 2023 TRD Off-road, double cab 4x4 with premium and tech packages. I waited 8 months to get that configuration in a color I wanted. I have no complaints other than the gas mileage is lackluster this far. Don’t disagree with the points in the review, I just don’t see most of them as negatives. Toyota sells 250k of these a year, the wait lists at dealers for them are significant and the resale values on used are insane. So people love them.
My father always bought the single cab long box trucks. Totally for the purpose of hauling things and room for two and a dog in the middle or in the back. His first truck was a 1985 Custom Deluxe Long bed, 3 on the tree tranny, inline 6. Yup, learned to drive on that thing.
The automatic is terrible. I test drove one and 5 minutes is all it took to convince me that it was the 6 speed all the way. It shifted too early and was constantly in way too low of a rev range to be tolerable. I don’t know how anyone could stand it compared to my 2007 6 speed manual. I drove the new 6 speed and it was so much better. The automatics are absolute crap.
@@opwanncanopie as far as small pickups go, you only have two enjoyable trucks to pick from and the rest are boring as hell. Its no surprise the only 2 that are fun to drive are both criticized and shunned for not being Honda Fridgelines.
@@opwanncanopie Actually, the Tacoma manual is fun in a truck-ish, rough and tumble sort of way. It feels great as a vehicle you go out into the wild with. But if your idea of fun is a 911 GT3, the Tacoma isn't the vehicle for you.
@@AkioWasRight My 2008 access cab was a manual... sure, it's less boring, but I wouldn't say it's fun to drive... just a bit more engaging. And in any sort of city driving it's a real pain. I definitely don't miss the manual in my 2021... that being said, I understand they've changed things a bit in the third gen.
So happy to see some basic peformance stats in this video! A few seconds of info that make all the difference in making this review complete! Also noticed this change in the ford bronco raptor video. Great work, and very informative! Keep it up guys! 👍
I own a 2014 I bought new. I wanted something that would last 10 years. I think it will easily last 20. I drive in fields and unimproved roads. I need to be able to throw stuff in the back, including dead deer. I need limited towing capabilities. I can do almost all maintenance myself.
The rotted out thing is sadly due to the first gen Tacoma. My 2022’s frame has a waxy film on top of the paint. Keep up on washing and treating the undercarriage and I don’t think rust is a bigger issue than anyone else.
I’ve had my sr5 ‘11 double cab long bed for 12 years. 260k miles on here now. Still runs string the front end is clapped now but have replaced a few components regular wear and tear. Never got stuck in the snow or mud great truck.
It's a work horse for both craftsmen, aid workers and warlords all over the world. In other words; Toyota doesn't have any problems selling them. (Also known as Hilux)
2:16 - I really appreciate that you (presumably) challenge (and punish) yourself by not cutting out little speech stumblers even when it is mere voiceover. It makes a more natural experience when one speaks in one go instead of in assembled building blocks - less sterile.
I'm not afraid of a turbo 4 in the new one. As with anything if it's engineered correctly it'll be fine. Just gotta hold our breath for a while. However if they smack a giant screen in the middle like the tundra I'm going for a pro4x
I have a 2021 Tacoma TRD Offroad with the 6 speed manual. I have owned a 2017 Honda ridgeline, and let me tell you, this Tacoma is miles better than the Ridgeline. This is the best car I've owned, I plan on keeping this this for a very long time. Also good god this color is incredible, I would not complain about owning this
I turn the key, my tacoma starts and gets me to where i want to go with zero bullshit & 100% dependability. I have other things to worry about in my life, but i never have to worry about getting from point A to B in my tacoma.
The big draw of the Tacoma is it's probably the only 4WD manual truck left, people know they'll easily be able to get 200,000+ miles on the drivetrain with no issues, and it's not too big to feel cumbersome driving in a city with. That being said I'd still take the Colorado ZR2 over this.
Everything that's not new and cool about the Taco is what makes it cool. I drive a 4Runner as a daily and if I wanted a vehicle with a truck bed it would be my first consideration.
@@littlestinker9716 Agreed. I'm getting a Taco. I said "if I needed a vehicle with a truck bed" -- I don't. My brother owns a '17 Taco - I'm very familiar with them.
Gx460 is the most under rated Toyota truck. Landcruiser lite. Current Tacoma is great too, just a little small inside. In 20 years, people will miss the experience these cars offer.
At 10"40 ish he absolutely makes my counter point. I grew up with a dad who always had a truck. The tacoma drives like a truck. a small truck, but still a truck. It just feels right.
I like my Tacoma. It’s reliable and doesn’t have a bunch of tacky and ugly garbage like a center iPad and electronic graphics that will look dated and goofy in a few years. Shame reviewers love and put that junk on a pedestal over literally most other things. Don’t understand why every feature and measure of your vehicle should be designed for “comfort” and “feelings”.
Funny enough. I own a 2021 Sport with the 6-speed and came back to watch Jack’s first video. Found this hours after post. If I had to take a guess, I’d say the next gen Tacoma will be similar to the new Sequoia and Tundra. Goodbye manual trans, hello screens, and a slicker, more expensive feel. Not necessarily bad, but look how much love those last gen rigs get in hindsight.
Toyota trucks are definitely a bit of an acquired taste. My dad is in the oil business and drives about 30k miles a year a lot of highway miles, but also a lot of offroad miles. He bought his first Tacoma back in 09 after killing 3 Dodge Dakotas in 5-6 years. Within the first year he said he'd never buy anything but a Tacoma. It did everything as expected, he moved to a new Tacoma in 2018 but still have that one, has 300k on it now. His 2018 has 130k on it, again a lot of the miles/wear & tear in the woods on rough roads, it still feels very tight & strong. The 2018 is the 6MT and it definitely makes a difference and is more fun than you think. I personally had a 2016 with the auto and I fucking hated the transmission. Great summarization of the Tacoma.