Hey guys. I did a search for "4 cyl. Tacoma" and came up completely empty. I'm thinking of selling my 4runner (even though I love it) so I can downsize (smaller payment, less insurance cost, simpler vehicle mechanics and electronics, better fuel economy) a little. A 4 cyl. will handle the small boat I have, as well as be a good all around vehicle for my needs. I have a couple questions as I'm looking for a latest gen. truck with a 5 sp. manual and 4wd. Any of you with that configuration please chime in and I would appreciate it!
1. Any issues with the 2.7 L? I had a 22-RE back in the day and you all know how good that engine is.
2. How about the 5 speed? I heard of people having some 4th gear issues with the 6 speed.
3. Will there be any real fuel economy gains switching from my 4runner?
4. Is the composite bed tough enough? Anyone hear of a broken one?
5. Last but not least, anyone interested in trading the truck I describe above for my 4runner?

 

Are you set on the newer tacos? You might consider an older one, it will prolly get the best mpg. Smallest newer truck, like maybe a 2003-2004 2.7l.

Simpler mechanical and electrical

1. 2.7 in the newer doesnt have any problems, but in the older like 95-98 or something like that the headers tend to crack, but toyota fixed that problem with a new header design. the only thing i have had to replace on mine is header, and just new plugs and wires. and it runs really strong at 110k.

2. 5 speed is great in my runner

3. i get around 20-22mpg highway, and 17-19 in the city. thats with armor and lift.

4. metal bed on older ones.

 

I can help out with a few of these questions I have a 2.7L in a 96 single cap tacoma

1. The 2.7L has been an amazing engine for me so far. I have only heard one problem with them is that the exhaust manifold cracks when you get around 100,000 miles has not happened to me yet and hopefully will not.
2. The 5speed is so far been good also. And it is not as sloppy as any of the older 5speeds I have driven the gates are easy to find.
3. I get 20mpg around town if i stay out of it. If I try being super conservitive staying under 2000rpms I can get around 24mpg.


I tow a 18ft center console it weights around 3500 pounds and it pulls it ok (not like anything with a v8) but i get around. I have had it up to 60mph in short bursts it really likes 55mph in fourth gear

hopefully this helps you out

 

I have a 2008 Access Cab with the 2.7L 5spd. I average about 22mpg on combined city and highway driving. The 2.7 has enough power, and I have towed both my boats with the truck (17' Fish/Ski and 21' pontoon). The 5spd is great no issues.

As far as the bed goes, I have had over a ton of stone dust in the back of the truck (loaded by a skid steer) and the bed held the load w/o issue.

-Frick

 

Thanks everyone for the comments. I appreciate the time spent writing them up. I have someone coming to look at my runner this week so its possible I'll have a new (to me) truck within the next ten days or so!