From: DwightSchrute@DunderMifflin.com
On Wed, 16 Apr 2008 05:45:19 -0400, red_z_man@hotmail.com (Charles H.)
wrote:
>thinking about an 08 tacoma v6 4x4 trd rugged package.
>
>so all your input would be great, no matter how small.
>I would like to know about any problems, gas mileage stuff like that.
>thanks again
I've got the '05 6 speed manual version of that truck, with an Access
Cab. Except for the TPMS and some minor details, it's the same truck.
I use my truck as a pickup truck, towing two different trailers,
carrying woodworking materials and tools, remodeling debris, outdoor
power equipment and stationary tools, bicycles, and kayaks. MY
largest tow load has been a Volvo S80 on a 4 wheel trailer. For
daily commuting, I ride a bicycle. I am a cradle to grave
vehicle user, so I'm picky! After 3+ years and 30,000 miles, I can
say the following:
The only problems I had were related to early production, including
too short cab mounts and a noisy spring. My truck was built 3 months
into the currently body style. All were promptly and properly
repaired under warranty, trucks built after mine include running
changes to correct the problems I had.
Cons (this took some thinking ):
- In-town gas mileage has always been in the 15-16 MPG range for me.
However, I tow often, use 4WD more than most, and often carry
aerodynamically awful loads on Interstate highways.
- Only one overhead rack fits, a Thule Xsporter.
- No factory aux in on the stereo
- The tailgate is a tad flimsy
- No stake pockets
- Factory 6 disc changer is nothing to write home about. I paid $150
for it, and got about what I paid for. I added a $75 aux input from
Logjam Electronics for my Ipod.
- No mirror defrosters available.
Pros:
- Power of the overall package. I've towed 5500 pounds with it, and
this is got to be the best V6 ever made. This is a trade-off with Con
#1. If you'll never need it...
- Tailgate is very easily removable, so you can run power equipment
ramps right to the bed
- The plastic bed is absolutely OUTSTANDING! From the plastic
surfaces, to the tie-downs, to the sliding rails my overhead rack
mounts to... All I can say is Bra-Vo! I had a 250 pound rented
floor sander do a barrel roll and hit the side hard enough to break
the machine. The only bed damage was a tiny hole. With all my
scratches, NO RUST!
- Outstanding 4WD performance, better than my '99 Wrangler.
- I really like the TRD bucket seats.
- Lots of interior storage
- Basic maintenance, like oil and air filter changing and lube work is
very well thought out. Look under the hood at the dealership.
- Very nice turning circle for a truck this size.
- Used versions are selling very close to what I paid new at local
dealers!
- Cruise control works nice.
- I really like the bed mounted inverter. I use it to charge power
tools and to power my airplane's oil pan heater during winter
preflights.
- Excellent headlights
- Excellent interior control layout
Final thoughts:
- After three years, no other vehicle has made me this happy, and I've
had some very nice vehicles. I would buy it again in a heartbeat.
- This truck would be an awful commuter vehicle. The ride is pretty
busy with no load, and the gas mileage isn't great. Toyota did a
great job making it great at what it does, without compromising it
into a _car_.
- Buy the Toyota heavy rubber bed mat. If keeps things in place in
the bed, and can be tossed over lightweight items like insulation or
yard debris. A great accessory.
- If you put overhead racking on it. The Toyota "flat" steps are much
more useful for loading and strapping than the more fashionable "tube"
steps, as you can more safely stand anywhere on them.
--- SoupGate-Win32 v1.05
* Origin: you cannot sedate... all the things you hate (1:229/2)
|
