welcome to our new tacos. Personally, I'd take a V6 manual. Just don't use first a lot if you like smooth driving. the first gear is so low torque, unless you ride the clutch, you generally end up rubbernecking down the road.

okay, make sure you get the TRD package. I know they're hard to come by however your dealer can and should be able to dealer trade one in for you, even if it is out of state transfer. Come in with money down and you WILL get one. It may take time, but if they want your business and have some of your money up front, they'll find you one. The reason I say TRD package, it has the tow package already installed. After that, manual or auto is up to you. maintenance on a manual in the driveway, easy. Auto is tricky. there is no dipstick for tranny. you need fluid warmed up to a certain point and the filler tool is tricky. mess up your levels and you'll find out what an AISIN transmission is worth these days. So for DIY types, manual's a good thing. And I've replaced seven of these transmissions due to improper maintenance including one for swamping out.

Light off-roading, auto's fine. I'd rather have the standard though. Personal preference.

 

Thanks for all the opinions and suggestions. I think I will stick with a manual, while driving around the base today I remembered how much I currently like my manual. So thanks again, any more suggestions or info keep them coming.

 

I guess it would help by defining what you consider a 'newer' Tacoma.

 

I've never owned an auto-slush-box so I'm a little biased about it. But with an auto you don't get the compression going down a steep hill (engine braking). I don't like riding my brakes all the time. But I guess it's all about the type of driving you do.

 

By newer I mean a 05 or newer.

 

I say manual over the auto anyday. Unless all you will be doing is leaving it stock and driving it in stop and go traffic.......