Which new truck?
Equipment
I have a 2000 Toyota tundra love it, but with the grandkids, looking at a crew cab the back seat on the 2000 tundra lacks room and the seat backs are straight up and down not very comfortable. Just hit 180K and time for timing belt, water pump and other maintenance $$$ so now would be the time to trade.
Considering a Toyota Tacoma with the 6 cylinder which is close in size to my 2000 Tundra but a bit smaller, or a Ford F150. I tow a 16.5 foot boat and once in a while a 3000lb camper.
Ford owners, I would like to know your input on which engine to get. Tacoma owners is the taco with the 6 cylinder a capable towing unit?
My Tacoma would tow 3000 pounds but struggle uphill. Im not a fan of Ford trucks especially compared to a Toyota.
You'd prob be better off asking which broadhead ;) I've got a 2015 F-150 with the 5 liter and I love it. My brother has same truck, been good to both of us. My other brother has a '16 pr '17 with the ecoboost or whatever it's called and seems to be treating him really well as well. My father in law also has a '15 or '16 F-150. All have the 4 door crew cab.
Towing those items is no issue, and the space in the back seat cannot be beat. That space comes in handy a million different ways. Enjoy whichever way you go.
Asking someone which truck is better is liking is my GF or wife better than yours. There's no real clear answer.
If you're unhappy with the space, why would you get the same size again? Bought an F150 new in 2015, which is still essentially a current model. I have 150000kms on it without a single hitch. I got the 5.0 liter and would again in split second. Very close in fuel economy to an ecoboost, but better when weighted down or pulling. Talk to any engineer, and those ecoboosts are engineering marvels to put out that kind of power out of a tiny power plant, but for lifespan and simplicity, you just aren't going to beat a big V8. Typically cheaper to fix if needed as well. On the crew cab size, well I love it. All 3 kids still in car seats or boosters here, and I can walk in front if each one and buckle if needed. Flip up the seats and you got yourself as much space as a small SUV.
Tundra double cab. Big enough in back for adults but still allows a decent bed size....really all the trucks are pretty nice these days.
I always drove F250s, but in 2013 I bought an F150 with the 5.0 engine, put 180K on it and decided to buy a new one. My son wanted the old one as a second truck as he works out of his and there's no room in the bed (diesel tank, tool box, oil cans, etc. ). My new one is a 5.0 also and I like it as well. Around 19mpg empty and 13/14 pulling my Ranger on a single axle trailer. Plenty of room in the back seat.
Full disclosure: I've never owned a Toyota and have never been tempted to. I'm a Ford guy after extensive experience with pickups in the oil field, and seeing that between the "Big Three", only Ford will hold up. Toyotas, Nissans, and such just aren't on my radar. Take that as it's given, my opinion.
Look at the newer Tundras and make your decision. They have a lot of room in the back seat area. I’ve always owned Ford trucks and then I bought a Toyota. I’ve still got my F150 but I prefer my Toyota.
Personally I like the durability and power of the Tundra.
-Mitch
I have a 2014 f150 supercrew with 5.0, Im 6'2 and son 6'3. He sits behind me sometimes and with drivers seat all the way back he still has tons of leg room. Me and wife sometimes sleep in back with seats up when were in backwoods hunting. Son has a 2013 5.0. We love them and tow my dads 33ft travel trailer no problem.
I was in a similar situation, also had a 2000 Tundra and needed more room for the family. I went with a 2017 F150 with the 3.5L ecoboost. The new engine now has a ten speeds and you can't even feel a shift, the fuel economy is pretty darn good for a truck with that much torque. If you're towing, go with the 3.5L ecoboost (not the 2.7L), although I suppose the 5.0L V8 will work also - I'm a fan of the ecoboost and the torque it gives you. My truck has a ton of room in the back seat, very happy with it.
Ford f-150. I just bought a 2018 crew cab 4x4 for zero interest. I like toyotas as well, but zero interest is hard to beat. Most new trucks are comparable in capabilities, so go with the best deal you can get
All I can tell you is my F-150 with the 5.0 is 6.5 years old with 191,000 miles and still purrs like a kitten with zero major costs other than oil change and tires. Doesn't get the mileage it used to, but still better than most guys I work with that have the eco-boost version. When the time comes I'll be shopping for another 5.0 engine, that's how confident I am in them.
+1 for the Ford f150. Had a '04 until 5 months ago. Had no real issues, but after almost 200k miles and 14 years I moved up to an '18. I went with the 5 liter/8 cyl. Happy! Bought used Toyota Camry's for my kids, but have been really pleased with my f150s.
ultimately I would own two trucks. then F250 or F350 Diesel, crew cab long box, for working and hauling family around, and any towing to be done.
then a toyota Tacoma, for just me zipping around in the woods, the Tacoma could even be a 2 wheel drive if I could find one. I don't always need to pull something or have the family with me and at those times I wish for a smaller truck.
Currently I have a 7.3 F250 crew cab don't see ever getting rid of it unless it is a tragic circumstance. Now I just need to find an old used tacoma for the zipping around.
oz
The only knock on Tundras are that they are hard on fuel. I recently purchased a 2017 Nissan Titan for about $5-$8k less than comparable Ford and Chevy's. It had 13k miles and the Titan has the best warranty in the industry. 5 yr 100k mile basic warranty. It is my second Titan and I really like it. I average around 18 mpg combined and get 21-22 mpg highway driving. Also....the back seat in my crew is huge.
Of those two choices and for what you're asking for, I'd opt for the Ford F150 with the V8. You'll appreciate the room of the crew and get your towing needs fully met. 'Course, look for an F150 with their towing package.
Once the grandkids are doing their own thing and you don't require the room, you may want to revisit the Toy V6.
Then again, you may never go back to the smaller truck. ;-)
Guess a chev must be out of the question. I looked at the new 19s this morn. Likely will order one this week.
Rams are great trucks! You can get a great deal on an 18 since the 19s are the new body style!
If you’re going to tow anything bigger than jet skis you need to go f150. The towing capacity benefits are obvious but just the bigger, heavier vehicle makes it a better tow rig, plus it’s more comfortable. Personally I would stay away from anything eco-boost. Ford and turbo chargers are not words that belong together. Also, direct injected engines have a long history of unreliability from numerous manufacturers.
With all that said, a new tundra has maximum back seat room and I believe Toyota started to offer a 38 gallon tank which makes the tundra very appealing.
Tacoma’s are awesome. But, when you start loading up families, gear and hooking stuff to the back end the limitations are quickly seen.
Another vote for Rams, if you're open to looking an something other than Ford and Toyota.
I know you didn't ask, but I had the same family fitting issue and wenr from a GMC extended cab to a Ram double cab and it is huge
the back seat on my 2015 Tundra Crew Max is huge! Never had a complaint on someone needing more room. Check one out. When I bought this truck 3 years ago, it beat all the other brands easily when I looked at all aspects from price to durability to resale, etc.
I had my heart set on a tacoma but bought an f150 2.7 ecoboost this summer after looking at most truck models. I thought the crew cab tacoma was very poorly designed on space efficiency which made a small cab even less functional (back seats fold forward, random storage boxes, raised drive train). Between family and a dog, I need more interior space. The pros were close to the same ground clearance, lower loading deck, and smaller/more navigable.
I love my f150 so far and have made two trips into the mountains with it. I would say its a toss up on the engines. I dont tow much at all so I went with the smaller engine. It was a coin flip compared to the simplicity of the V8. I will say I get a couple mpg less than advertised and after reading online, that seems to be normal (currently 20 mpg combined with mostly highway miles). Im really nitpicking here. I like the truck and havent heard anyone really complaining about f150s in a long time. I also got the bigger fuel tank (36 gallon) and have a ridiculous range.
M.Pauls my 2000 tundra is an access cab the new taco has a crew cab more back seat room and the seats lean back more. I am however leaning towards a bigger truck. I did some research last fall on the net and a site can't remember the name of truck guys went around and asked the Ford mechanics and service managers which engine they would buy and most said the 5L V8.
I have had good luck with Toyotas my wife has had 2 Corrolas and my 2000 has had no problems, my brother in-law has a newer Tundra and his big complaint is the mileage is poor.
The Ford has an AL body and that would be good as I live up north and they put down a lot of salt in the winter resulting in rust problems. Leaning towards the F150 but wanted input on all the engine choices.
M.Pauls my 2000 tundra is an access cab the new taco has a crew cab more back seat room and the seats lean back more. I am however leaning towards a bigger truck. I did some research last fall on the net and a site can't remember the name of truck guys went around and asked the Ford mechanics and service managers which engine they would buy and most said the 5L V8.
I have had good luck with Toyotas my wife has had 2 Corrolas and my 2000 has had no problems, my brother in-law has a newer Tundra and his big complaint is the mileage is poor.
The Ford has an AL body and that would be good as I live up north and they put down a lot of salt in the winter resulting in rust problems. Leaning towards the F150 but wanted input on all the engine choices.
Always been a Chevy guy but when looking for my next truck I wanted something with lots of towing capacity and an engine that would outlast the truck. I ended up buying a Dodge Ram 2500 Crew Cab with the Cummings diesel. I did a lot of research and most of them will go 200 thousand plus before the truck falls apart. I also am pleasantly surprised by mileage. I get 18 city and 22.5 mpg highway. I did not get that with my last Chevy 1500. Shawn
The Tacomas don't have much room in the back (or the front for long legs), and the towing ability is restricted. I would go with a full size for room and towing. Also stay away from the V6 engine even the ecoboost, for towing, they will suffer with any up hill towing and won't save you any gas. In short, full size, V8 and pick the one you like.
I have a f150 with the eco boost, it gets 17-19 in town and 24-25 on the highway. It will fit 3 car seats. The feature I use the most is that it Backs a trailer up on its Own, my wife and kids just push a button and stop when the trailer hits the water. I think the tow capacity is over 10,000#.
I haven't seen the backseat in a Tundra, but find it hard to believe it can be bigger than a F150 crew cab...more leg room than a 66 Cadillac Calais in those buggers!
Toyota all the way remember ALLLLLL the lack of hassles you had with that truck they are bullet proof and headache free...I'll put my 2001 with an off road package against anything other than a ATV
I own an 11 f150 5.0L best truck I've ever owned. So my vote ofcourse goes to the ford and the 5.0L.
I just went through this.......by the time I configured an F-150 and ordered it...it was only 2k-3k less than a Super Duty. The damn f150 turns off every time you come to a stop...that was also a deal killer for me. I custom ordered an F250 crew cab, off road pkg, lariat. They gave me close to 10k off the sticker on that truck.....like I said I could barely get into the same thing in a 1/2 ton for that much. So far I have no issue with the aluminum body and I get 2 mpg better than my old F250 with a much bigger 6.2 liter gas engine. My 2nd F250 but my 5th 3/4 ton truck. I like and dislike stuff about all of them...
The best truck is one that is paid for.
Straight, there's a little button on the dash that circumvents the engine turning off when you come to a stop. NOT a deal killer. Besides that, if you want to permanently turn it off, just cut the wires off a four way trailer plug and stick it in the socket. It will stay off as long as the plug is connected. :-) Might as well get used to it, all of them are gonna have this lovely feature in time.
I love our new GMC 2500HD. Only thing missing not making it a Denali is the front grill and pricetag. Mileage is phenomenal.
If we did not get GMC Employee leasing and such I'd probably bought something cheaper. But went with the top truck made in my opinion.
Go shoot each of the trucks and buy whichever one feels the best.
I have an '11 Tacoma 4.0 liter. I mostly use it for rec, pulling either my Jayco camper or Alumacraft fishing boat. I go all over the state all year and have no issues. I am sure I could pull the boat behind the camper if the camper was designed for that. The Tacoma happens to be very good off road for what it's worth.
This all said my next rec truck will be a diesel 3/4 ton only so that I can tow a 5th wheel with my fishing boat behind that.
Just purchased a 2018, GMC Sierra 1500, and love it. I have the 6.2 engine and just returned from CO elk hunt from MN - averaged 19.6 MPG's, and I don't baby it - 75 to 85 all the way there and back. We were loaded front to back - top to bottom. As Mathewsman said, it's almost the same thing as the Denali without the moon roof, retractable running boards and price tag.
I love the extra room in the back seat, but do miss the bigger bed - this is a 5 1/2 footer.
Normal running around MN, I average 23 MPG consistently.
I like the looks of the Ford better - but this had the towing package and engine I wanted.
Full size tundra has more seating than a suburban. Had both.
I have been a Ford guy my whole life, I have worked for Ford dealers for 25 years. I bought my first non Ford truck in 2016, a new Tacoma crew cab. I will be going back to the F-150 soon. The Tacoma doesn't have near enough room for me, It is the most uncomfortable truck that i have had, which i didn't notice on the 10 minute test drive. If you keep tricks for a long time like I do, I would go with the F-150 with the 5.0 V8 for reliability over the EcoBoost.
My Silverado is pretty sweet. Very comfortable ride and plenty of room. It’s amazing how good the gas mileage is these days. I have the 5.3L V8 and when I drive out west I get 33mpg on stretches in eastern CO and KS. Yes, relatively flat but still for a V8 pretty nice.
Best of luck with your choice.
There are lots of places here in colorado only a small truck will get in and just barely in my truck has character dents to prove it!!!
Interesting... I was looking at a new Tacoma and simply didn’t like the power... soft!! So I started looking at tundras but couldn’t pull the trigger (oh sorry, release) on the price... new trucks are crazy expensive. However, I really liked the tundra. Huge backseat and power to spare .. very nice!!! I settled on a used 2016 that I found with 8,000 miles and paid 36,500. I’ve had it 6 months and absolutely love it. Highly recommend the tundra
I'm not ga-ga over a certain make so there are quite a few good trucks. You won't hear me recommend a Nissan unless you get a manual shift Nissan.
I've always liked Fords, but on my last truck, Fords were about $6k more than GMC for what I wanted so I went with GMC 1500 with the 5.3L and have been happy with that truck. A friend of mine and my dad have the F150 with the ecoboost and those have a lot more power, but I just wonder about the reliability of the turbos. I guess time will tell.
I have the 2017 Ford F-150...Pretty much like Shakey posted, minus the ‘three car seats’! It’s quicker than my 2012 F-150 and gets better MPG! Had almost 100 thousand on it and never a problem with the EcoBoost....
I love my Dodge Eco Diesel. Plenty of room, plenty of towing power and sips fuel.
Larry
I have a 2014 supercrew and I love it. 3.5 ecoboost. Engine has 375 hp and more torque than I need. Interior is roomy. SIL is 6 4 and he has plenty of room sitting in back.
I'm not a car guy, so I pose this more as a question than as reinforcement going one way or the other. As I understand it, turbos are a device installed on the exhaust that spin at incredibly high RPM's (several hundred thousand RPMs) and inject additional air into the cylinders for extra power during the combustion cycle. The result is you get extra power from a smaller motor and hence improved fuel efficiency. My question is, how predictable is the life expectancy of something spinning at really high RPM's and the replacement cost, and getting a couple MPG better (and the additional purchase price as well) vs just getting a bigger more powerful motor without the turbo? In my mind having the turbo go out would calculate to a pretty expensive repair bill for saving jack shit on gas. My thinking could be completely unfounded; as stated I'm not a car guy, I just buy them, pay for whatever they cost and use them......I am a structural engineer though, so I can confidently speak on those matters.
I'm looking at a 5.7L Tundra and 5.0 F150. You are correct about the straight up and down seats in the Tundra. I have to say that the F150 is looking good, but I won't be in the backseat of my own truck..
Has to be a Silverado... :)
I have a 2014 f150 5.0 motor with the 33 gal gas tank a great truck with lots of interior space and great towing capabilities.
I'll be turning 57 in a few weeks and been a Chevy truck owner all my life. That said, I've likely bought my last General Motors product. The company is cutting WAY too many corners and product quality is suffering because of it.
Bought a brand new 2011 Silverado off the lot late 2011. Within a six year, >100,000 mile (mostly highway) span, I had to replace a power steering pump, two sensors and every flexible high pressure fluid line on the truck. The bed is rusting through at the wheel wells and the dash cracked. My dad bought a 2011 Silverado too and it has experienced the exact same issues as mine. I realize the company had to make some changes to survive the economy in 2008/2009....but turning to low cost suppliers and cheap materials was the wrong direction for sustainability.
My next truck will likely be either a Toyota or Nissan. Never thought I would say that, but it just feels like I just can't trust GM any more.
I'm going thru the same deal. I currently have a 2003 F150 since 2004. Waiting on the 2018 F150 factory close out prices to come around. Current prices are too high. I'll go with the 5.0 4x4 supercrew, 36 gal tank and navigation. With the correct config tow package....I think the tow capacity is the best in class....12.5 or 13.2 I think it was. Gas mileage is advertised as decent. At 6'2" I sat in a 2018 Tacoma and it was way too small for me. Leg kept hanging up on the steering wheel when getting in. Tundra's seem to have bad gas mileage for the size.
Nissan Titan for sure.. I'm on my 4th Nissan truck and all have gone over 200,000 miles with no issues. Fuel mileage is not bad and as someone stated earlier Nissan has the best warranty.
I’m a Toyota guy. Tacoma’s are pretty tight thou so if looking for room than get a crew cab Tundra. I took like Tacoma’s for how small they fit in places etc
What about the new 1/2 ton diesel trucks?
I'm researching them now for a late 2019 purchase.
Was at the ford dealership the other day and saw the new f150 diesel, its a $7500 option, It will be better on fuel but diesel is almost always more expensive, it would take a long time to recover the costs
ben h> Turbos usually spool up at 100,000 RPMs. It's not a good idea to get a turbo working until the engine is warmed up as engine oil feeds the turbo bearings. On the other end don't turn the engine off if you've been running the turbo hard as the turbine is still spinning for a few minutes. Turning the engine off starves the bearings for oil and turbos aren't cheap.
Silverado's for me;owned about 25 of them.Big change was the 2014 model year.Very nice truck;I always purchase the double cab(not crew) with the 5.3 V8.Plenty of power and almost 23 mpg. on the highway.Current is a 2017,4WD,Z71.
Ford F-150, man here.
Still "lovin" my 2014, 4 door 4x4
spool up at 100,000 rpm ??? Chevrolet or GMC IMO
I just bought a 2019 newly designed Dodge Ram 1500. so far I love it.. Had a 1998, 2004, 2007, 2009, 2016 and now a new 2019. Crew cab is very roomy in the back, ride is incredibly smooth, no cab noise and its got every bell and whistle you could want.
Just bought a brand new 2019 Ram 1500. 5.7 L Hemi engine. First American made truck I’ve ever purchased. It just turned 1000 miles so I’m still loving it but who knows what it will be 5 or 6 years from now. Fingers crossed
Just drove from Kamloops to Edmonton with my ‘15 F150 5.0l V-8. Got 23 US mpg....10.2l/100km. Great mileage and power. I bought a king cab to hold overall length down with the 6’7” bed... which is long enough to sleep in. The King cab hauls groceries just fine and suits the Vizsla as well. I like the V-8....had the powerful 3.5 eco-boost in a work truck back 4 yrs ago. Same mileage as the V-8, more torque, just worried about Long term durability as I typically keep trucks for several hundred thousand miles and didn’t feel the V-6 was as likely to go that far with minimal maintenance.
Had an ‘09 crew cab Toyota Tacoma for a few months. Too small for two bird dogs, wife and I. Good solo rig though.
That said, I’ve got a 6.7l Powerstoke in a ‘15 F350 for heavy carrying and hauling....cabover camper etc. it is a much superior tow rig to the F150 when you get 3500 #s behind you, as it should be. And it gives up very little in Fuel economy to my F150. Very nice truck when you need something that large. Not good in narrow back country trails, but most of BC is logging roads built for tractor trailers so it works well there.
traded our 2014 F150 for a Chevy. Took both for a test drive down a dirt road, the Chevy rides better than the new Fords and the backseat more comfortable. It gets 22-23mpg with a V8
This morning, I ordered a 2019 silverado High Country. Looking at early/mid November to take possession. It replaces my 2015 truck, same brand/model. There is several options on the motor, but I stayed with he 5.3L as I have had several and they have performed flawlessly.
I have a 2011 Ford F150 with the 5.0, nothing but issues for me. Within the last few months, I've had to rebuild everything in the front end, then broke a rear leaf spring, now the rear clutch pack in the differential needs to be replaced...so done with this truck. Will never own another ford after this one.
Toyota needs design a legit 3/4 ton diesel and offer a diesel in the current Tundra.
I’m a Toyota guy. Tacoma’s are pretty tight thou so if looking for room than get a crew cab Tundra. I took like Tacoma’s for how small they fit in places etc
I had the same room issue in 2003 after my son was born, traded my 97' Ram 2500 reg cab for a new 2003 quad cab (4-door) Ram 2500 5.7 hemi. Fast forward to 2018 I'm still driving that same truck, 218K miles and still going pretty strong with only a few minor mechanical issues that started about 160K miles, front hubs and two rocker springs. Tiny bit of rust just started on one side of a wheel well, size of a quarter, easy fix. And I'm not that easy on my trucks, construction worker, add to camping/hunting Colorado mountains and towing large tent trailer/ATV trailer, this has been one great truck, I will buy another Dodge 2500 again, maybe diesel this time.
You want a shiny hotrod for roads then get that...want a iron and steel beast you can ride into hunting battle get a Toyota...!!
Love it Adventurewriter...LOL
It’s amazing that we all have different loyalties in our hunting trucks. All of the brands are good, and all produce the occaisonal lemon. We are fortunate to have many good choices.
If you want to spend most of your life at the dealership getting repairs, get a Dodge diesel. They will never ever get the emissions right. I spent $12,000.00 on repairs to the turbo, the suspension, and the computer before I hit 100,000 miles. I shall spit on Dodge right now!! Petuee!!!!
I own a 2016 Toyota Tacoma 4-WD with the 6-cylinder engine. I would not recommend it if you were considering heavy towing. Mine labors when pulling with a trailer with a 450 4-wheeler on it. Otherwise, I love the vehicle. Gets 18 mpg around town and 23-24 on hwy. Gets about 14 mpg when towing my 4-wheeler.
My truck is a 2007 full size tundra, 4 dr 5.7 had some maintenance issues, what doesn't but just normal wear and tear. I bought it in 2010 with 80,000 on it.... mine are all hwy miles, now has 235,000 and a long way, from being replaced....... It has never had the timing belt replaced......
most of my friends turn their in around 300,000 me I would keep it........ biggest waste of money, is transportation, but you do need it......
I had a Nissan to use, I was impressed with it....... I keep a second truck at the cabin, to beat in the woods, (99 Toyota), and drive around town in a 96 Corolla
The full size Tundra (Crew Max) has the most back seat room of any truck I know of. -You give up some bed length, but for my needs it is great. Three youngsters, momma, and even a lab can ride with relative ease. I am impressed with the new Rams though. Another 8 years and maybe I'll try one. :0
All I can answer about is what I own! Ford F150, 2018 crew cab with 2.7 Eco Boost. Gets 20 MPG all around and tows my 6000# camper very well. Some is the engine and a LOT is the 10 speed transmission. Mine is the STX, not fancy. I had to get a brake controller installed, put on y own running boards and bought a Leer cap. It has the 5.5 ft box; wish it was 6.5 ft. The engine/tranny could tow circles around my 06 F150 with the 5.4 Triton!
I have done hunting trips across the country in a friends GMC, all I can say is that the Ford has more room in the back seat than the GMC has in the front seat!
Guys who say Dodges diesel is garbage have no clue. I know folks and lots of them who have 250 and 300 thousand miles on them and as I posted before the truck may fall apart at 200 thousand but the engines when maintained properly last forever. My 2015 has 100 k on it and no troubles what so ever. Plenty of room them 2500's as well and I can tow over 20 thousand pounds with my airbags blown up. Shawn
Our government seems to prefer dodges so that’s a dead giveaway to stay away.
For those of you who've had turbo problems regardless of MFG, how much were they just to fix that component (adjust price accordingly if you can do that yourself)? They sound expensive to fix, but I don't have any idea if that's $2k, $4k or more? How many miles in were the repairs and were they normal wear and tear repairs or something unusual?
Love my 2010 Tacoma. Been great to me. A good buddy got an F150 about 3 years ago now and has loved it. They feel totally different to me. Taco's are skinnier, and just seem more like they are for going off road and into tight spaces... OR are good for someone who's doing stuff like hunting and stuff round the house, perhaps modest contracting.
But the F150 (and similar sized trucks) seem better for "work". Certainly work well off road, but the size seems to work better if you do significant work, or tow big stuff or simply need more space. It also seems a bit more comfortable for long drives. For example, his 150 cabin feels a lot like my wives Honda Pilot.
Both are awesome, and for me, the Taco wins. But if you do lots of long drives or need more space, the F150 or similar would be better it seems.
Almost seems like the Taco is part of a dying truck breed - small trucks. Like the Ford Ranger for example. I hope not though, because at some point Ill want to buy a new Taco, and I sure hope Toyota still makes em!
When I was checking out a 2018 F150 supercrew 4x4 the other day, one thing I noticed (and liked) was the tranny tunnel does not go into the back seat area. It's all flat. You can put up the rear seats and there is ample room to sleep on the floor in the back and no tranny tunnel sticking in your ribs while you're laying there. If you're hot camping or driving that is a benny IMO.
I've had a Chevy and dodge before going with my head and not my heart. I had a Tacoma towing was ok but now have a tundra and with the exception for gas mileage I love it. Next will be the tundra crew max as it has all the room I need. I have no need to look elsewhere Toyota reliability is second to none in my experience.
My last three silverados would tie your Tundra for reliability. Except for gas, oil and other fluid and filter changes, they have been flawless.
2019 low boy?put a load of bricks and 4X4s in there and haul a fifth wheel?Draggin'Bottom.
If your going half ton gas engine get the GM product. DO NOT buy anything new in a diesel...
Ben h I pulled the motor out of my excursion to change a rusted oil pan 7.3 diesel. Figured while I had it out I rebuild the turbo. Surprisingly there isn't much to it. A couple of bearings and a bushing to distribute oil.
Can't go wrong with this:
2017 F150 3.5L ecoboost. Snugtop shell. Reliable, tough, durable, comfortable. Highway, or off-road, towing - it does it all.
I've owned a Ford F150, a Nissan Titan, and currently a Tacoma. The best has been the Titan hands down, had owned it 12 years with no rust or any issues. The Ford had rust within 4 years. All my buddies with Chevys had major issues. Would have bought another Titan but could not afford the extra $20,000 as I had retired. I currently own a 2016 Tacoma access cab off road pkg 3.5L auto. Great little truck that gets 18-19mpg around town and 23-24mpg on highway. While pulling a 16' boat I get 17-18 mpg, just remember to run transmission in 5th when pulling hills. Averaged 21 mpg driving cross country loaded to Co elk hunt.
It really depends what you are doing with it. I have 2009 dodge Cummins diesel. It has 315,000 miles and sees crazy hard use towing,farming and General hard work. I did delete the emissions at about 60-70 thousand. This truck is off road some part of every work day and gets oil change at 12-15 thousand full synthetic. Did put a transmission in at around 300. Also have a 2002 Toyota sequoia with about 200 like it also but terrible mileage same truck as a tundra. I need a newer/nicer truck and am glad to hear the good responses to the F150.
Well, what a difference one week can make! Since my earlier post proclaiming the attributes of my F-150 my ac clutch has started ticking, my battery died, my ignition switch broke and fell out of the steering column, I have a developed a sticky rear caliper, and the tailgate latch is acting up...and worst of all someone put rust under my rocker panels! The good news is most of it I can fix relatively inexpensively and it's PAID FOR...which is good because damn are new trucks EXPENSIVE!!!!!!!!!
For me its an F150 with the V8 and don't look back.....
My GMC Canyon got 28 mpg on my way to Iowa less than 2 years ago. Regularly get 21/22. The V6 engine/truck has a 7,000 lb tow capacity. Towed my Ranger 620 all summer. For me, it was the perfect truck since I have 35 miles to work and wanted the gas mileage, but still needed to pull my boat. Really wanted the Tacoma, but it couldn't tow what I needed. Good luck in your search.
Just because it can tow it doesn't mean it can stop it. That's a big boat for that truck imho.
For what it’s worth,
I had a Tundra and it was nice but...it was big and made the off road feel rough. The bigger trucks seem to exasperate the bumps. I have also had a dodge and friend has F150 and they tend to make the roads feel tougher and are often to big on the trails.
I sold the Tindra and have a new Tacoma. I love the truck. It’s small and nimble and seems to handle the off road trails well. There are times when I miss the bigger Tundra (insert full size here) but when I am on a smaller trail the Tacoma shines. It meets all my needs and has exceeded all my expectations so far. Mine is a 2017 4 door with the off road package.
There are a lot of great choices out there.
I’d go with any company that didn’t take bail out money for crappy business policy. That eliminates the General Motors and Dodge offerings.
I’ve owned or driven them all as personal or work vehicles , except the Titan, within the last 14 years. Ford has by far been the best, lowest cost to maintain, then any of the others. Whether as fleet or as a personal ride. No comparison. I did like my Tacoma for its small size and ability to get into places others couldn’t go. But, it was no more reliable then any of the others. Had it back to the dealership twice within 50,000 miles.
My current personal ride and everyday driver is a 2011 F150 with the 5.0. The previous owner put a chip, an exhaust system, and a better air breather system on it. I get 21 mpg off road and it is a flippn’ rocket ship with 145,000+ on it. It simply never gears down on steep pulls no matter the load it’s under. It purrs along at 85 mph at 2100 rpms. Knock on wood, it’s been one heck of a ride.
I’m not one to deck a ride out as they are just tools to me. But, I’d definitely look into a tuner, exhaust, and a breather system for which everyone I bought. Emission guidelines really hampers power and efficiency ability if the newer rides. Meaning they are capable of so much more then what they are allowed to sell the U.S. consumer. Both mileage and power wise. The easier the motor works the better they perform and, the longer they will last.
That is my experience and meant to degrade no one else’s. But, don’t be fooled by the over stated Toyota hype. They last no better and, in my experience, the Tundras have more problems then other makes. Good luck and God Bless
I haven't owned a Ford yet, but I will never again buy a GM or Dodge pickup. I like my Tundra so much though, I doubt I'll ever get around to trying out that Ford...
"Just because it can tow it doesn't mean it can stop it. That's a big boat for that truck imho. "
Haven't had a problem yet. Certainly you have to use caution......which I do.
Buy American! I have noted that confuses a lot of Toyota buyers, but American means GM, Ford and probably Dodge. A Japanese company assembling their products in the US to avoid taxes and tariffs is not the same as a USA company building their trucks here. Don't bother trying to convince me Toyota ns Nissan are "more American" or better "quality" or any other malarchy - not interested and happy to continue buying American...
Buy American pretty much equals buy Mexican or Canadian when it comes to trucks, and cars.
Buy American ...wait we all already did.
“Many analysts disapproved. They felt that Chrysler would go bankrupt even with a bailout and that Ford didn't really need it. The main impact of the bailout was to save jobs at GM. But the recession caused GM to slash its employment and production, despite the bailout. Furthermore, once the recession was over, Toyota and Honda would continue to increase their U.S. factories, providing jobs for U.S. auto workers.
If there had been no bailout, Ford, Toyota, and Honda would have picked up market share. That would have increased U.S. factories and jobs once the recession was over. The loss of GM would be like the loss of Pan Am, TWA, and other companies that had a strong American heritage but lost their competitiveness. It would have perhaps tugged at the heartstrings of America but not really hurt the economy. As a result, the auto industry bailout was not critical to the U.S. economy, like the rescue of AIG or the banking system. “
Colorado_Dave, do some research on trucks "made in America"...
Good post James. The bailout was the farthest thing from a free market ever seen in this country. Brand loyalty is one thing. Loans are one thing. However, ignoring what GM did to get this governments money, ranks a lot worse then buying any foreign car on the scale of supporting American values.
Lets face it, as long as factory workers come in hung over on Monday morning and/or have a "keger" to attend on Friday evening, all companies will throw out lemons!!!
And all vehicles have those certain parts that some engineer, that should have been fired A LONG TIME AGO, designed. Seems some companies have more of these guys than others though.
I've always been a Ford truck guy. Current is a 2010 F150 4x4, 5.4L, crew cab with 6.5' bed. I love it. Very roomy inside. Riding in the back seat is about the same as riding in the front comfort wise. I will say, between the crew cab and the 6.5' bed, it takes a 40 acre field to turn it around!! I find myself looking for parking spots on the ends that I can pull straight into. Have been in a few parking lots that was literally impossible to get it into a normal parking spot between cars. St. Louis airport being one of those lots!
Mine has 191,000 and its still going strong. Had an oxygen sensor go out last Spring. With the mileage, I went ahead and replaced all 4 at the same time. I could tell a difference. I average 21 highway, drops to 17 at 75 mph on the interstate. Gas mileage.... What's that? in town.
Gosh I love my first gen Tundra! I have 280 on mine and I dread the day I need to replace her!
Well well well, this is what I get for talking nice about my F150. 194k miles on her and a week after buying her a nice new serpentine belt this is how she treats me.
I have a 2011 6 cylinder Crew Cab Tacoma, I believe 235 hp. I tow a 3000# 18 foot boat since 2011 and have had no issues with enough power....but then I'm on the coastal plains of north Florida, with no huge hills to climb. I'm at 107k with no problems yet. I've towed a heavy loaded U-Haul trailer back from Buffalo to Tallahassee with no issues with power. I like it and may buy another, but I have no doubt the BIG trucks, including the Tundras have a more comfortable ride and are roomier, and have a lot more power. But everything considered, the only thing I would do different if I was buying again is to buy the long bed versus the short.
Recently bought a 2016 F150 with 2.7L Ecoboost. Frickin' love it. Quickest truck I've ever owned and pulls my wheeler out west like it isn't even there.
Just a few of the trucks I have owned in the last 10 years. Tacoma-great, reliable little truck. Ok for towing small loads. Very nimble on trails and logging roads. Not a soft luxury ride. GMC 2500 duramax crew cab-flat out hauls **s. Never noticed a load behind it. Cab was pretty basic. Little things started addind up at about 90k miles. Ford F-350 King Ranch crew cab dually-comfortable and more bells and whistles. Rides even better with a load in it. Doesn’t get out of the blocks like the duramax but hauls just fine. Ford F-150 Lariat Crew cab-probably the most comfortable riding truck i have be in. Large v-8 and 36 gallon tank will go 700 miles. Back seat flips up and you have lots of in-cab storage. I’ve been really impressed with this truck. Too bad it’s my wife’s truck.
After owning a Ram with Ram boxes, I will never have anything else. Waiting to see if they offer the Eco-Diesel in next years models again for the 1500, if not I will get a 2500 diesel in Mega-Cab. With Ram Boxes.
I’ve thought about a new truck, but a new TRD Tacoma is $40,000. Lord!
My 2010 Tacoma TRD has 182,000 miles on it, never the slightest issue...and is paid off. Paid off is hard to beat.
I had a 1998 extra cab 3.4v6 Tacoma preciously. Put 300,000 on it. Had to replace the clutch (manual tranny) a couple times is all.
My dad had a 1997 Tacoma with the 4cyl, manual, that ran over 300,000. Good truck. Now he drives a 2001 with 330,000. Reliable truck.
Mom had a Camry she ran for nearly 400,000. Sold it and buyer still drives it a year later. She got a new Camry this year.
My brother had an old straight axle Toyota with 4cyl 22R. Had 600,000 on it. We rolled it once hunting off a logging road. Got some help and sat it back on her wheels, and she never missed a lick. That went from scary to...then funny.
I was looking at full-size Chevy trucks a few months ago, while my work truck (Colorado) was being checked for sensor issue on shifter at 70,000 miles. Dealer came out. Drove the truck. Talked a bit. I asked, “What’s longevity on a truck like this?” It was a lifted DU edition, $65,000 truck. He said, “You should get 200,000 miles out of it.”
Another vote for the 2016 F150 with the Ecoboost. Amazing truck. Gets 20 mpg, pulls my camper over mountains with ease, will throw you back in the seat when passing someone on the highway. Year and a half into it and I'm thrilled.
Does the 40 000 dollar tacoma still come with drum brakes in the rear like the cheapest economy cars and or the low end atv's? If so toyota is making a killing on that truck
Southfarm, I replaced all those pulleys and the belt a few months ago on mine at 191,000. One of the idlers started to rattle a little, so I purchased the Gates kit online that came with all the idlers, the tensioner and the belt for a little over $100. Changed them all out myself in less than 30 minutes one evening.
Lol, Carcus. I believe so. Don't bother me; never had to replace them anyway.
This is my ten year old 08 Tacoma, now has 185,000. I call it my ATV with a cab-over as it goes most places I need to go. I do not pull anything more than this Popup and get 17 mpg that way. Just truck alone at 65 mph, 20 mpg. I agree with the under powered statements as here in the mountains, I need to shift down to maintain good travel up hill with trailer on or a very full load of equipment. I chose the smaller cab over the longer crew cab, because of better gas mileage. I also wanted a 6 ft bed for sleeping. ( a 6 ft bed was not available in 08 with crew cab.). Most often, I am the only one using this truck, so of that situation, there is plenty of room for one person and equipment but a tight situation with another person and dog.
I may have heard that the newer Tacomas have 40 more horse power, but have not asked the dealer. I have only had to have one front hub replaced (bad bearing). NO engine work or drive train. I have replaced the "fan" belt, transmission oil, rear oil, brakes, and a synthetic oil change even 5000 miles and are now on the 4 set of tires.
A great truck over all, but slightly small and under powered with a load.
My next truck will be larger, a little more power and what brand, I do not know but it will be a pre-owned truck. And this all depends on if I can wear this Tacoma down before I die.
my best, Paul
A couple my friends have stuck with Ford and GMC as they claim that poor gas mileage and comfort/convenience issues with the Tundra keep them away. Is it true that the Tundra is rated dead last for gas mileage and also for comfort/convenience for full size pickup trucks? Any truth to their opinions?
Jtek, the gas mileage is terrible on the Tundra probably worst in class. Comfort? not sure what that means, but the crewmax has the largest rear seat area of any in its class and for cross country trips can't be beat. It ranks just behind the Tacoma for dependability/reliability and RESALE , over the others u mention.
It ranks below all others regarding "updates". The stereo system compared to others is behind the times as well as some of the digital technology within the cab (creature comforts), is probably what they are referring to.
As an old guy I could care less about stereo or the techy new gadgets. I want dependability reliably and because of those 2 things the resale is best in class . But to each their own.
Paul at the fort. I have a 2016 Tacoma with more hp than my previous 2006. It gets better mileage and has more hp. I can pull a 19 ft travel trailer with no problems. Back seat of the double cab is small compared to my buddy’s f150. I have gotten up to 27.5 mpg on a tank. Average about 23
My 2011 Tacoma has been great. Not one single problem.
They were referring to comfort and convenience as related to stylish and comfortable interior with new look and feel. Plus latest and greatest electronics. I think I am agreeing with my friends. If the Tundra gas mileage sucks and it is not up the latest style of the competition, why would I want one. You can pay for a lot of repairs in all the extra gas you burn in the Tundra and why not drive the nicest truck if most everything else is equal. That being said, I have never driven a Tundra. Mostly just idle curiosity on my part. I have a 2017 GMC Sierra SLT that I paid 12500 under stick for brand new. Love that truck so far.
Just ran into a guy coming out of a road hunting with a shiny rig warning me "gets pretty muddy up there" I had been up there the previous day and almost laughed out loud...My "Black Death" 2001 one Toy truck ate it up...it was hardly more than mud puddles this truck will only be beat by a 4 wheeler...and just barely....
Paul, that Taco is going to outlast both you and I and I’m only 40. Go on Tacoma world forums those guys are getting 400-500,000 miles no problem. I keep wanting to get a new truck but I’m afraid of getting something less reliable then mine at 133,000+.
Have an '09 Tundra Crew. I agree that the MPG sucks and the 5.5' bed fills up quickly. Maybe just coincidence for me but a lot of younger elk guides out West seem to run Tundras.
Advwriter ... your post reminds me of last weekend. I was at the MXdN (annual World Cup of motocross ... Euros killed us just like in the Ryder Cup) in Buchanan, MI. Turned into a total mudfest which was packed with nice trucks and big campers (we just had tents) along with rental RVs. On Friday, they had to use dozers to pull rigs into their spots. On Sunday after the race, most everyone had to wait for the few dozers to get them out. However some hardy souls ventured on their own ... some made it ... most just got stuck worse. Guy next to me had a new Denali with 1000 miles on it. While rocking back and forth to get his trailer unstuck, he snapped the u-joint on the front driveshaft ... so he was down to 2wd and had to wait for the dozer!
Having the right tires, and knowing how to drive in adverse conditions is a big part of getting stuck, or not. I dare to say, that’s more important than the logo in the center of the steering wheel.
