I have been seriously kicking around the idea of purchasing a 2005 Tacoma and would like some opinions. I can't afford the 4Runner I would like, and I feel that the Tacoma is a great "alternative". I have been specifically eyeing the possibility of getting a 4x4 Double Cab V6 Auto with the TRD Offroad Package #2 and was wondering if anyone has one of these, or at least the 05 Taco. Has anyone test driven them? I am looking for opinions on the ride, options, etc. I would like to know if it is as good as everyone says it is (2005 Motortrend Truck of the year, etc.) Any info is good info and I would like to thank anyone in advance.

 

i test drove a 2wd d-cab and it was really smooth and tight... i wanted to drive a 4wd, but it was too early and they hadnt even received one yet.

next oil change ill try to drive one though.

from what ive seen, yes it lives up to the hype!

 

cant you hook up a big screen to the rear of the truck? using the power outlet in the bed? (heard this somewhere)

 

Looking on Edmunds True Market Value Pricing, it is about a total of $70 more for a 4Runner with 4wd, V6, Sport Edition, Moonroof, JBL stereo, auto dimming rearview mirror, and 115v powerpoint, versus the Tacoma double cab short bed 4wd w/auto, w/TRD package (rear diff, suspension, upgraded fabric/trim etc), stability control and JBL Stereo. So I say get the 4runner if that's what you really want. Otherwise it's just a matter of choice and test driving them.

 

It only have 400 watts of power...peak.
Laptop ok...don't know about a big screen....

I wish the 4 door would come with stick shift.

 

The 4 door double cab does come with an optional 6 speed manual transmission, only on the short bed version though.

 

That's what really bums me out, the fact that you can't get a 6speed with the long bed. That would be the exact truck that I want. That, and the fact that they STILL did not put discs on the rear of the Tacoma. That, to me, is ridiculous, and archaic, to say the least.

 

We drove the new Taco D-cab and the E-cab in the 6-speed last fall and loved them both. But geez are they expensive. I got the '99 with 60K miles for about half what they wanted for the Taco even after dealing. If ya want the new Taco that bad, go for it. It's nice. But it's overpriced in my books.

 

Mr friend ordered his and just got it fresh from the factory. 2005 taco sr5 TRD ext cab, silver, auto. He still says he misses his 89 he sold to me haha. Said i got a better deal. Seriously though, its got amazing power and comfort. Almost looks like a full size compaired to my 89.

 

Dont try to use your tow hook on the 2005 for anything:
http://www.tacomaterritory.com/forum...acoma+tow+hook

 

I read that thread, I would say it isn't a very good idea to use chain with slack on any tow hook, I don't think it means the tow hook is worthless, probably would have done much better with a proper strap.

 

Well, after visiting the dealership and having a test drive, it was determined, that I can't really afford a new Tacoma. :cry: So, I have been kicking around the thought of purchasing a used one. My question is this. I have a 2nd gen 4Runner with the 3.0 in it. It obviously lacks power. Does the 3.4L that the Taco and the 3rd Gen 4Runners have have quite a bit more kick in the pants, or is it not worth upgrading? I would also like a bit more elbow room in a newer (for me) vehicle, and does he double cab Tacoma provide that? Any info is good info and I would appreciate any. Thanks.

 

On your more recent questions....

* The 3.4L is a definite improvement over the 3.0L (I've had both in pickups).

* If by 'elbow room' you mean side-to-side space... No, the Double Cab doesn't afford you any more lateral room than any other Taco.

 

Checkout a 00 tundra .... its got room, and power and should be in your price range

 

I've got the 3.0 in the '95 and the 3.4 in the '99, both with manual trannies. Yes the 3.4 is snappier. The Tundra V8 would be great, but the 15 mpg would suck next to the 20-22 mpg I get on the '99. If you're get a Taco, remember that the frame is only a half-ton frame and can't take the abuse the earlier pickups can.

 

I've only ever bought 1 vehicle, and that was almost 10 years ago, so take this for what it's worth...

If you really want a 4Runner, save your pennies and get what you want. IMO, you should not settle when purchasing something as substantial as a new car/truck (unless of couse what you really want is a ferrari or something outrageous). Unless you are talking about a limited V8 4Runner, I would think the costs would be pretty similar. Save your money for another 6months and put more money down on the 4Runner to keep your payments where you want them. Since the 4th gen 4Runners have been out for a while and the new tacomas are still very new, there are lots of deals on the 4Runners, but not many on the Tacoma - try to wheel and deal on the 4Runner you want.

FWIW... my wife just got an 05 SR5 (V6) for invoice - about $28,500.

 

I like the SR5 cause it doesn't come with that ugly spoiler, plus the chrome grill looks better than bodycolor ones.