Trucks, which one, Tacoma-Frontier or Colorado?

Hoping someone with some real life experiences can chime in.
I am looking at getting rid of my SUV and getting a truck.
Criteria
4 doors
4 wheel drive
Auto
Air
Power windows
Power locks

It will be my commuting vehicle (100km per day) so it is used mainly to drive to and from work, hunting on weekends and pulling a boat a 2,500lb boat in the summer. So looking for the most economical vehicle that meets my criteria.By doing some internet searching, I came up with the following...

2016 Nissan Frontier SV Crew Cab 4x4 5AT Average Price out the door $37,080
4.0L V6 Fuel consumption (L/100km) : city= 15.7 ; highway= 11.3 ; combined= 13.7 ;
http://kijiji.unhaggle.com/vehicle/2...b%204x4%205AT/



2016 Chevrolet Colorado WT Crew Cab Short Box 4x4 Average Price out the door... $37,570
3.8L V6 Fuel consumption(L/100km) : city= 13.5 ; highway= 9.8 ; combined= 11.8
http://kijiji.unhaggle.com/vehicle/2...t%20Box%204x4/


2016 Toyota Tacoma 4x4 Double Cab V6 SR5 6AT Average Price out the door..... $43,232
3.5L V6 Fuel consumption(L/100km) : city= 13.1 ; highway= 10.5 ; combined= 11.9
http://kijiji.unhaggle.com/vehicle/2...6%20SR5%206AT/


Judging by what I can see from my research, the Nissan Frontier offers the most standard feature for the price but has the worst fuel mileage of the 3....

Can anyone speak to these vehicles? Reliability real world mileage/performance numbers etc....Just trying make the most informed decision possible...

thanks in advance...

Can't speak to those vehicles but have considered a full size truck ? I don't think the operating costs are much more but so much more functional and comfortable ....like anything else the fuel economy depends a lot on how you drive it

I think if you look harder you will see most full sized trucks now have the same mileage as these mid sized ones. My Ram 1500 with 5.7 Hemi will cruise on the hiway at @ 11lt/100kms. I can do over 700kms on a fill up and sometimes 800 if all hiway. It has a 10,000 lb tow capacity. The Toyota and Nissan are proven and good trucks, The Colorado is too new to have much useful history.

Ram 1500 or the Toyota hands down.

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Originally Posted by 73hunter

Can't speak to those vehicles but have considered a full size truck ? I don't think the operating costs are much more but so much more functional and comfortable ....like anything else the fuel economy depends a lot on how you drive it

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I have thought about a full size but there are bigger, won't fit in the garage, are a little bit more pricey and will have a hard time parking them at the mall...Just figure the smaller ones will do everything I need it to do and still fit in my garage...
I have to remember I don't need a truck but would prefer one over another SUV. My SUV has done everything I needed it to do but its getting up there with 249,000 km's.... need to start looking for an alternative. Biggest reason for the truck is so I can separate my outdoor clothes and catch from the cab......

Who the hell parks a truck in a "Garage" ??? Where do you keep all the normal Krap we store in the garage? When I got married and we bought our first house my wife wanted to put her car in the garage. I told her if she wanted a cat I got the garage...forever. She is on her second cat and my garage is bursting at the seams.
You really should test drive a full sized truck before signing on the dotted line, you may be surprised. I also was an SUV guy and wanted nothing to do with a full sized truck but our company switched over to them and I had no choice. Now I would hate to drive anything else.

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Originally Posted by terrym

Who the hell parks a truck in a "Garage" ??? Where do you keep all the normal Krap we store in the garage? When I got married and we bought our first house my wife wanted to put her car in the garage. I told her if she wanted a cat I got the garage...forever. She is on her second cat and my garage is bursting at the seams.
You really should test drive a full sized truck before signing on the dotted line, you may be surprised. I also was an SUV guy and wanted nothing to do with a full sized truck but our company switched over to them and I had no choice. Now I would hate to drive anything else.

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How do you handle the winter...frozen windshield every morning, scraping it off must be a PITA?

How do you handle the winter...frozen windshield every morning, scraping it off must be a PITA? In my garage, it keeps nice and warm :)

Here's a vote for the Tacoma, you will love it. One thing about Toyota, they never rattle (pet peeve:)). If you're going to go off road, there is no other choice, I go places my buddies in Rams and the rest won't even try.

And a second vote for "Who puts a truck in the garage" WTF:)

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Originally Posted by fratri

How do you handle the winter...frozen windshield every morning, scraping it off must be a PITA? In my garage, it keeps nice and warm :)

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Trudeau says winter is gone forever :ninja:. If it's icy I start it up and let it warm up and ice comes off no problem. Hey, if you're one of "those" guys who needs to park indoors then so be it ( Starbucks guy too eh?). The Tacoma is a beautiful machine that will serve you well for a long time. Make sure you have it rust proofed from new at Krown rust and it will last 15 yrs easy. It's more money than the Nissan but you will make most of it back at resale anyway.

I was always under the impression keeping ANY vehicle in a heated garage through the winter in areas where salt is used on roads was a bad idea.

At least outside the vehicle stays cold where hte salt can't activate and start to eat away versus when it's in a warm garage.

Terry, how big is the tank on the Dodge? My F150 has 144ltr and I can get over 950km to the tank (this past easter drove from Timmins to Cornwall, a bit of ruunning around, cornwall to Ottawa, bit of running around, and then had to fill up.)

Tacoma I have a 2006 and it's been a great truck

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Originally Posted by TurkeyRookie

I was always under the impression keeping ANY vehicle in a heated garage through the winter in areas where salt is used on roads was a bad idea.

At least outside the vehicle stays cold where hte salt can't activate and start to eat away versus when it's in a warm garage.

Terry, how big is the tank on the Dodge? My F150 has 144ltr and I can get over 950km to the tank (this past easter drove from Timmins to Cornwall, a bit of ruunning around, cornwall to Ottawa, bit of running around, and then had to fill up.)

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98 Liters.

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Originally Posted by terrym

98 Liters.

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Ah that explains it, Toyota use to do that as well with their Tundra's, 2016 they finally went to a full 144lt tank.

Initial purchase price isn't what its all about. If you plan on keeping a vehicle for a few years you should look into cost of routine maintenance.
Basic and routine costs of some foreign makes can be downright scary.

I used to drive Japanese cars and loved them, Accords Camrys. Great vehicles. When buying a truck the domestics are excellent now.

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Originally Posted by terrym

I used to drive Japanese cars and loved them, Accords Camrys. Great vehicles. When buying a truck the domestics are excellent now.

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X2. Chev Colorado or full size Silverado all the way. Trucks of the year.

I have a 2013 Toyota Tacoma Access Cab 4x4 6ft bed V6 6Spd Manual and it's a great little truck for my needs. It has an 80L tank and the best mileage I have had was 720km from full to gas light. Normal driving around Mississauga I get about 500-550km.
I got it in August 2013 and I currently have 49560km on it, other then oil changes and swapping tires I haven't had to do much maintenance.
From what I have read on a Tacoma forum I am on, the new 2016 with the 3.5L is better on gas.

Are the Colorado/Canyon 2.8L diesels on the market yet? That would be another option to look at with great fuel economy.

Taco, I always bring this up, whenever you see a revolution anywhere in the world what do you see that 50 cal mounted to the back of? You guessed it, a Toyota.

They are built to last and they do last. I had a 1998 4Runner that I sold with 287000km on it, it is still driving 3 years later around Ottawa, I used to take it into the bush too, it was a fun wheeler. I had a Camry, drove it to 347000km, all on the original clutch. Dad has an 05 Tundra, drives just like new.

We've got a couple of the Frontiers here in the fleet. Both 4x4 SV. Previously we had the older version of the Colorado / Canyon.

When we went out and looked at replacements, the new Colorado / Canyon just felt and drove poorly. Build quality was poor, and road noise was high. The doors felt light, and tinny when closed.

The Frontier is a good truck, and yes, the amount of options out the door is greater than the others. Also, IMHO, the build quality is much better. They feel like a more solid truck, and little noise, squeaks, rattles etc. It also should be noted that Nissan has some nice touches like coming with a stock spray in bedliner, complete with their cargo rail system. ( this would be a $1000 up charge in the others). As far as fuel economy #s. The ones reported for the Frontier sound about right, but who's to say the others haven't been gauged in "ideal conditions"?

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Originally Posted by trimmer21

X2. Chev Colorado or full size Silverado all the way. Trucks of the year.

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Just be cautious and make sure you drive them at 120 or so on the highway first. A lot of them do it and it has been an issue for a while:

http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2...-solution.html

http://www.carcomplaints.com/GMC/Sie...d_shakes.shtml

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Originally Posted by Bluebulldog

We've got a couple of the Frontiers here in the fleet. Both 4x4 SV. Previously we had the older version of the Colorado / Canyon.

When we went out and looked at replacements, the new Colorado / Canyon just felt and drove poorly. Build quality was poor, and road noise was high. The doors felt light, and tinny when closed.

The Frontier is a good truck, and yes, the amount of options out the door is greater than the others. Also, IMHO, the build quality is much better. They feel like a more solid truck, and little noise, squeaks, rattles etc. It also should be noted that Nissan has some nice touches like coming with a stock spray in bedliner, complete with their cargo rail system. ( this would be a $1000 up charge in the others). As far as fuel economy #s. The ones reported for the Frontier sound about right, but who's to say the others haven't been gauged in "ideal conditions"?

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I agree with this, and the diesels in the Canyons haven't received the most outstanding reviews either (very much inline with your review) although they do get great mileage.

Off topic but I just bought a 2016 F150 and damn, I love the thing! Great power (I got the 5.0 Coyote) and considering I have over sized tires and the engine is still breaking in (just hit 3500 km's) the last couple of tanks I've been in the 13.3 liters per 100 km range mixed city highway. No complaints.

I have an XLT Supercrew 4x4 with the Sport and FX4 package, and a few other add ons and got the truck for a couple of grand more than the Tacoma mentioned by the OP.

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Originally Posted by last5oh_302

Just be cautious and make sure you drive them at 120 or so on the highway first. A lot of them do it and it has been an issue for a while:

http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2...-solution.html

http://www.carcomplaints.com/GMC/Sie...d_shakes.shtml

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Thanks for the info. I have a 2014 Silverado and haven't noticed anything. It's rock solid.

I ended up buying a F150 last spring and really like it. But I would have bought the Tacoma if it had more backseat space for the kids. I test drove a Frontier and do not like it; felt cheap and there was lots of engine vibration. Never drove the Colorado, but when I added up the price it made more sense to me to just get a full-size.

Wow, lots of mixed opinions/thoughts/options.... keep them coming, always good to hear about what others have experienced.

I had a 2010 Colorado Z71 Crew Cab with the 5 cylinder engine and like you I also drove between 80-100km a day and all I can say is the fuel mileage was garbage. I usually got 420km on a full tank. The 4x4 was like driving an AWD car and was not very useful. Maybe the new models are better, I have no idea just thought I'd share my info from my experience.

If you're set on a mid-size truck I think Toyota is the way, there are no shortage of testimonials here and elsewhere about these things lasting forever. I knew a guy once who did mission work in Central America with his church and swore by the Toyota he had down in the jungle, and just about everybody seems to have a friend who had a Toyota 5 speed truck that just would not die, these kind of stories are everywhere

I must confess guys - I'm with Fratri, I hate scraping windshields and park in the garage when I can also

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Originally Posted by 73hunter

If you're set on a mid-size truck I think Toyota is the way, there are no shortage of testimonials here and elsewhere about these things lasting forever. I knew a guy once who did mission work in Central America with his church and swore by the Toyota he had down in the jungle, and just about everybody seems to have a friend who had a Toyota 5 speed truck that just would not die, these kind of stories are everywhere

I must confess guys - I'm with Fratri, I hate scraping windshields and park in the garage when I can also

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Have to agree the Toyota is the way to go.

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Originally Posted by fratri

Wow, lots of mixed opinions/thoughts/options.... keep them coming, always good to hear about what others have experienced.

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It is like asking a hunter what is the best caliber, sometimes the best thing to do is to just sit back with some popcorn :)

I was in Haiti for work, we used SUVs to get around, let me tell you, we are being screwed over in North America by the car companies and governments when it comes to capable offroad vehicles as well as good, small diesels. The Toyota Land Cruiser, just a beast that will go anywhere. The Nissan Patrol, wow, saw water half way up the windshield when the guy went into a hole fording a river, no water even came in, we also rode in Mitsubishi Monteros, they are great too.

Notice that nobody brought in a Ford, Chev or Dodge? They actually would buy from Europe directly and ship them across the ocean rather than buy something just just up north. The reason for Europe over Asian is simply left hand vs right hand drive.

$46K USD for a Toyota Land Cruiser 4x4 with 7 passenger seating, setup for water fording and with a very good 4cyl diesel, I wanted to cry when I looked at the crap when I got back home.

The thing is not many people need a vehicle to cross streams and even do much off roading. The manufacturers build what the market wants. Most pickup trucks are daily drivers that rarely get used for what they are capable of. If Haiti had the extensive modern road network they wouldn't drive the same vehicles.

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Originally Posted by Fox

It is like asking a hunter what is the best caliber, sometimes the best thing to do is to just sit back with some popcorn :)

I was in Haiti for work, we used SUVs to get around, let me tell you, we are being screwed over in North America by the car companies and governments when it comes to capable offroad vehicles as well as good, small diesels. The Toyota Land Cruiser, just a beast that will go anywhere. The Nissan Patrol, wow, saw water half way up the windshield when the guy went into a hole fording a river, no water even came in, we also rode in Mitsubishi Monteros, they are great too.

Notice that nobody brought in a Ford, Chev or Dodge? They actually would buy from Europe directly and ship them across the ocean rather than buy something just just up north. The reason for Europe over Asian is simply left hand vs right hand drive.

$46K USD for a Toyota Land Cruiser 4x4 with 7 passenger seating, setup for water fording and with a very good 4cyl diesel, I wanted to cry when I looked at the crap when I got back home.

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Ford Chevy or Dodge don't make serious offroad SUV's. I guess if you want to tap into the North American market you'd need to look at a Jeep Wrangler, and they've more than proven their worth over the decades in the offroading world.

My two cents;

Currently drive a 2014Tacoma and have a 2011 F150 in the driveway.

F150 is twice the vehicle the Tacoma is and that's with the odometer at 246k.

F150 is way better off-road and more comfortable for my hour commute. The ecoboost gives me 90% of 420 ft poundstorque at under 2000 rpm.

I have also spent time in the new lighter F150 with the non turbo 3.5 and as a commuter and an occasional tow vehicle you can't go wrong.

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Originally Posted by last5oh_302

Ford Chevy or Dodge don't make serious offroad SUV's. I guess if you want to tap into the North American market you'd need to look at a Jeep Wrangler, and they've more than proven their worth over the decades in the offroading world.

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Sorry, not really, I have a Jeep, I follow all of that stuff, everyone now except trucks are moving into a unibody construction with independent suspension and everything run on electronics, really hard to build anything off of that. On top of that the trucks are becoming too big for any use offroad, they sink. You can put a massive engine and huge tires but you give someone who knows how to drive a Suzuki Samurai and they will get through a lot more crap and only sip on fuel.

As to the Haiti comment, great highways but no bridges, they all get washed away every hurricane season.

Just drove to long point from Ancaster (I'm here now), drove through construction in Dover and had a long wait at the tims drive through in haggersville.

Attachment 32432

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Originally Posted by 73hunter

Can't speak to those vehicles but have considered a full size truck ? I don't think the operating costs are much more but so much more functional and comfortable ....like anything else the fuel economy depends a lot on how you drive it

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Flipping a coin would be better than asking to the public! Every brands can have break down and have recalls, this is a fact.

Just like a gun, try them all and pick the one that feel the best. If you have a good budy who works for a dealership, go for it.

I bought a new Sierra in 2011 from a friend of mine, the engine light came on in 2013 and 2014 and they had to replace a spark plug on cylinder #7 each time. Early this year (148000k) it came back on and they replace the bottom end and no question ask. That's good customer service and if it wasn't from my friend I'm sure it would have been a different story. And I forgot, they always send a driver to pick up my truck at my house or at work and drop me either a truck, if I need one, or a car (even to get new tires on). You could say "It wouldn't happen with a Dodge" but that's just BS. Things are not build to last anymore so customer service should one of your main concern.
Enjoy your new truck...

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Originally Posted by Big Jack

My two cents;

Currently drive a 2014Tacoma and have a 2011 F150 in the driveway.

F150 is twice the vehicle the Tacoma is and that's with the odometer at 246k.

F150 is way better off-road and more comfortable for my hour commute. The ecoboost gives me 90% of 420 ft poundstorque at under 2000 rpm.

I have also spent time in the new lighter F150 with the non turbo 3.5 and as a commuter and an occasional tow vehicle you can't go wrong.

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Have to disagree here, if that was the case the 150 would have a much higher resale value. When I last looked the resale value went Toyota, GM, Ford and lastly Dodge?

As far as off road goes I think you are way off the mark too, sorry:) I have a buddy with a Ford 150 and one with a Dodge, they will not even attempt to take their trucks where I can get mine, they are wayyyyy to heavy and they sink like stones. The angle of approach is superior in the Tacoma so is the angle of departure.

As for hauling and towing well you have me there:)

I have an 09 taco wouldn't buy anything else 4 cylinder 5 speed did front brakes at 210000kms not the greatest for power but handles my 8' trailer with a Polaris sportsman just fine. Would recommend 6 cylinder if hauling anything heavier than 3000lbs bought this truck new and haven't spent any money other than the brakes and oil changes.

Sent from my SM-G930W8 using Tapatalk

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Originally Posted by dodgeboy

I have an 09 taco wouldn't buy anything else 4 cylinder 5 speed did front brakes at 210000kms not the greatest for power but handles my 8' trailer with a Polaris sportsman just fine. Would recommend 6 cylinder if hauling anything heavier than 3000lbs bought this truck new and haven't spent any money other than the brakes and oil changes.

Sent from my SM-G930W8 using Tapatalk

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I hear you.....but that Toyota Tacoma is $8,000 more than the Frontier....

A friend gave me a good quote.... $35,700 out the door for the [COLOR=#000000]2016 Nissan Frontier SV Crew Cab 4x4 5AT.... From what I can tell that is a great price, just wish it had better fuel mileage....

Any Chevy/GM guys, do the same price for the Canyon/Colorado out there?

Might have to go test drive one of the full size trucks this weekend just to see what I am missing....

A lot of great info, just don't understand why our Canadian dealers can't build/sell a 4x4 pickup truck for the average weekend warrior. Anyway the search continues... :)

Because GM trucks are built in Mexico now

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Originally Posted by fratri

Wow, lots of mixed opinions/thoughts/options.... keep them coming, always good to hear about what others have experienced.

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Frank I went from a Tacoma (driven to 315,000 before frame recall), to an F150 (drove to 290,000, sold), to my Tundra (currently at 210,000). I buy my trucks "pre-scratched" just plain and simple I can't justify the price of a new one. That being said, my two Toyotas have been incredible trucks. MPG ratings are based on ideal conditions, temperatures, downhill, lol. I average about 12 or 13L/100 km highway with my 4.7. My taco I had the 4cyl and it barely used fuel at all. I drive a double cab, so 4 door and a 6 1/2 ft bed. I wouldn't go shorter just because the sled would hang out too far. I can get the tailgate closed with my big bear in the back.

Side note: my cousin blew up his Xterra and my buddy blew the tranny in his Frontier. I know it could happen to anyone but these trucks weren't abused. Turned me off Nissan...

Whatever you pick, a new vehicle will have a great warranty. Keep up on the maintenance and it'll last you long as you need it to. Say yes to the remote starter.

And park it outside.

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Originally Posted by 3030

Because GM trucks are built in Mexico now

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Not all. Most are still built in Gary,Indiana and Pontiac,Mich. All GM trucks with a VIN # that begins with "1" are US built trucks.

10 Top Picks of 2016: Best Cars of the Year

http://www.consumerreports.org/cars/...op-picks-2016/

Wow, The Toyota Taco's are really expensive now!

I drive a 2013 Taco with the same options (V6, auto, air, double). i managed to buy one slightly used, just 10,000KMS on the odo. Came with a pile of extras (knobby winter tire/rim set, boat carrier, bak-flip bed cover, etc.) and I paid around $31k for it. I wouldn't flinch at buying used toyotas and you can save a bundle. Granted, took me 6 months to find that private deal (on kijiji !).

It is my daily commuter which includes driving to several satellite offices in Quebec, Vermont, ontario and occasionally as far away as indiana. As a result I already have almost 100,000kms on the vehicle. It is comfortable to drive, rock-solid in the worst road conditions (if you have 4wd engaged) and i haven't had a single thing go wrong yet - i haven't even replaced the brake pads yet!

I pull a 16 foot boat with it, barely feel it.

I have three kids. It's not great with three kids in the back seat (10, 13, 15), but ok for short trips. It is fine with just two of them. My oldest is already asking when I am getting rid of the truck because she is hoping to get it (fat chance!!!).

I really like the all-plastic bed. Really nice to throw stuff into the back and never care about scratches. I have also mounted things like electrical outlets, etc. just by drilling a hole. No worries about creating a rust point.

The traction control system is excellent. I have had trucks with locking differential. The electronic "simulated" locking differential is WAY better on the taco. Actively manages all four wheels to keep you moving. I can go out on an icy lake, turn off traction control and put the truck into a sideways drift, then turn traction control back on and the truck will kinds snap-back into a straight line. I don't know how it does it, but it works.

There are cons:
Gas economy isn't great (I am a horrible lead-foot). With summer tires I get about 11.5 L/100km (500km per tank) running summer tires at maximum pressure. With the winter tires and colder weather this number jumps to a painful 13.8 L/100km (450km per tank). The gas tank is also quite small which is a pain on the long trips I take. I don't find much difference between city and higway, probably because I average around 125-130 kph on the highway.

Ground clearance isn't great on the SR5. The TRD has 1 inch of extra clearance. I am looking now at taller tires. This only really matters for ice fishing as I have found the taco gets hung up in deep snow a little easier than the full sized trucks. I have never actually got the Taco totally stuck yet.

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Originally Posted by scarkner

Wow, The Toyota Taco's are really expensive now!

I drive a 2013 Taco with the same options (V6, auto, air, double). i managed to buy one slightly used, just 10,000KMS on the odo. Came with a pile of extras (knobby winter tire/rim set, boat carrier, bak-flip bed cover, etc.) and I paid around $31k for it. I wouldn't flinch at buying used toyotas and you can save a bundle. Granted, took me 6 months to find that private deal (on kijiji !).

It is my daily commuter which includes driving to several satellite offices in Quebec, Vermont, ontario and occasionally as far away as indiana. As a result I already have almost 100,000kms on the vehicle. It is comfortable to drive, rock-solid in the worst road conditions (if you have 4wd engaged) and i haven't had a single thing go wrong yet - i haven't even replaced the brake pads yet!

I pull a 16 foot boat with it, barely feel it.

I have three kids. It's not great with three kids in the back seat (10, 13, 15), but ok for short trips. It is fine with just two of them. My oldest is already asking when I am getting rid of the truck because she is hoping to get it (fat chance!!!).

I really like the all-plastic bed. Really nice to throw stuff into the back and never care about scratches. I have also mounted things like electrical outlets, etc. just by drilling a hole. No worries about creating a rust point.

The traction control system is excellent. I have had trucks with locking differential. The electronic "simulated" locking differential is WAY better on the taco. Actively manages all four wheels to keep you moving. I can go out on an icy lake, turn off traction control and put the truck into a sideways drift, then turn traction control back on and the truck will kinds snap-back into a straight line. I don't know how it does it, but it works.

There are cons:
Gas economy isn't great (I am a horrible lead-foot). With summer tires I get about 11.5 L/100km (500km per tank) running summer tires at maximum pressure. With the winter tires and colder weather this number jumps to a painful 13.8 L/100km (450km per tank). The gas tank is also quite small which is a pain on the long trips I take. I don't find much difference between city and higway, probably because I average around 125-130 kph on the highway.

Ground clearance isn't great on the SR5. The TRD has 1 inch of extra clearance. I am looking now at taller tires. This only really matters for ice fishing as I have found the taco gets hung up in deep snow a little easier than the full sized trucks. I have never actually got the Taco totally stuck yet.

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I wonder whom at Toyota thought it was a smart idea to paint TuRD on the side of all their trucks? Just wonderin'......:D

I highly recommend going to a full size truck over these small half trucks.

I bought a 4x4 Colorado brand new back in 2008. It was too small for what I need a truck for. Sold it and bought a sierra instead. Same gas mileage, way better at towing and a truck box that I can hold my atv and still tow a trailer.

Since I can get a good price on the 2016 Nissan Frontier crew cab 4x4....does anyone have any real life experience with it? My Nissan contact says they are bullet proof... Anyone care to add to this one way or the other?

Google is your friend. I would just google Nissan Frontier problems and see what comes up?

Big fan of my 2010 Tacoma TRD. Replaced brakes and tires once, other than that just fluids no other issues. Tows everything I've needed it for, decent gas mileage and fits down my narrow driveway no problem.

Something to consider though, I've been shopping around for a cap for my truck and it's a lot harder to find a good deal. With the full size chev/ford there seems to be a lot of used deals out there on accessories, but little harder to find for the toyota.

Toyota is definitely the way to go. I have a camry that currently has 370,000 clicks on it and I have literally not done anything to it other then the regular maintenance one it and I just changed the battery last year. Battery lasted about 12 years!!!

I also have a Tacoma and I absolutely love it. Great little truck!

are you looking at going new or used? if your lookin at used, pm me because im thinking of changing this one for a new one. The current one I have is an 06.

you definitely cant go wrong with Toyota, and you get what you pay for.

cheers

bp

The best vehicle I have ever owned and being in sales go through more than most was a Camry XLE V6. This one was made in Japan. I let it go at 350k and it never even burnt a light bulb. Nothing but scheduled routine maintenance. Car was absolutely bullet proof and my boss at the time drove an Infinity and couldn't believe he paid double what I did after driving it.

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Originally Posted by last5oh_302

10 Top Picks of 2016: Best Cars of the Year

http://www.consumerreports.org/cars/...op-picks-2016/

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Well, while we're suggesting trucks that the OP expressed no interest in...

http://www.trucktrend.com/features/1...a-1500-denali/

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Originally Posted by LowbanksArcher

Well, while we're suggesting trucks that the OP expressed no interest in...

http://www.trucktrend.com/features/1...a-1500-denali/

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I've driven enough of them at work, and owned my own. I have no faith in the transmission, (I've had enough bad luck with GM to say never again, as I'm sure some have with Ford, Toyota, and Dodge), and then there's this:

http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2...-solution.html

I know somebody that took 3 new trucks out for test drives and according to them they all vibrated on the highway.

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Originally Posted by skeeter1

Have to disagree here, if that was the case the 150 would have a much higher resale value. When I last looked the resale value went Toyota, GM, Ford and lastly Dodge?

As far as off road goes I think you are way off the mark too, sorry:) I have a buddy with a Ford 150 and one with a Dodge, they will not even attempt to take their trucks where I can get mine, they are wayyyyy to heavy and they sink like stones. The angle of approach is superior in the Tacoma so is the angle of departure.

As for hauling and towing well you have me there:)

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its ok.

Your friend needs to learn how to drive.

As for resale that is over all vehicles I would think but maybe not.

I put 75000 k a year on a vehicle including the beloved Tacoma.

I quite dislike the Tacoma it's not near the truck people seem to think it is.

Nocargo room, and not comfortable and hey don't even get me started on the rust that is already starting.

Oh and if you dare load cargo in box even close to its rating and drive it a while your front tires will scallop like crazy.

Pretty useless work truck and I don't find it awesome off road although I hunt and fish not mudbog!

The worst piece of crap I've ever owned was a 4X4 Nissan Frontier, and I've owned just about everything. Their brake rotor surface area was under-engineered for the weight of the vehicle. With the semi-metallic pads, you get to pay for a $1000 brake job every 35,000K. Complain to Nissan for warranty/defective product and you get the standard PFO. Non-stop transmission problems, transfer case problems, electronic trans shift module, clutch pressure plate and ring gear replaced twice, Poor fitting crew cab door, water infiltration on door posts, bad road noise, poor gas mileage, etc., etc. My friend had one and it was a POS too. He got rid of his at 50K. I've owned two Tacomas and they were good trucks, but why pay the same price as a full size, and you get the same mileage, less trailering capacity and bed capacity, smaller bed size, poorer safty rating, cramped cab, etc. Sucks big time when you can't load ATV's , sheets of plywood, skidoos, or comfortably carry passengers. Pay the same price and get yourself a Tundra, or a GMC Sierra/Chev. Silverado. I'd never buy a midsize again.

I have an 06 taco, still on stock brakes. Done a wheel bearing from ripping boot in corn field. That's it. I do oil 5k instead of 8k. Done lots of 15 hr trips from Toronto to Gaspe,QC. With 2 kids and the wife. It's cramped but ok. Have a jack rabbit cover which is nice. Some big hills to deal with on the drive, power band is good


Have goodyear wangler mt tires oversized for truck. Get 600k when I drive normally, lead foot hurts. In Ireland I saw one with the 4 cyl diesel and I wanted one.

i am from a GM family. My parents 08 Montana is a big p.o.s. But I did use my neighbour new Seirra z71 which was nice, lots more room and gas wasn't bad. I'm glad I'm not in the market right now!!

A big Tacoma following, even though the Tacoma is 8,000 more than the frontier. $8,000 can buy a lot of fishing and hunting accessories

That $8000 will really be $4000 if you consider resale value. And if you keep it @ 10 yrs then it's $800 a year not considering resale.

personally I'd buy a Ram :silly:. Get a well equipped one cheaper than the Toyota. They ride like a caddy and haul and tow anything you want. Probably no difference in gas mileage.

If you want a smaller truck. Then it should be the tundra ..Toyota. but I think the new f150 with the 5 liter. Is the truck to beat .now I have been hearing great things about the new dodge economic deisel .

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Originally Posted by skeeter1

Have to disagree here, if that was the case the 150 would have a much higher resale value. When I last looked the resale value went Toyota, GM, Ford and lastly Dodge?

As far as off road goes I think you are way off the mark too, sorry:) I have a buddy with a Ford 150 and one with a Dodge, they will not even attempt to take their trucks where I can get mine, they are wayyyyy to heavy and they sink like stones. The angle of approach is superior in the Tacoma so is the angle of departure.

As for hauling and towing well you have me there:)

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The F150 comes in at roughly 400 pounds more than the Tacoma, so not so much more weight for a lot more truck.

4x4 Supercrew F150 compared to 4x4 4 door Taco V6:

http://www.toyota.ca/toyota/en/vehic...s/capacity#cp4

http://www.ford.ca/trucks/f150/speci...ns/capacities/

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Originally Posted by fratri

How do you handle the winter...frozen windshield every morning, scraping it off must be a PITA?

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That's what remote starters are for.

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Originally Posted by TurkeyRookie

I was always under the impression keeping ANY vehicle in a heated garage through the winter in areas where salt is used on roads was a bad idea.

At least outside the vehicle stays cold where hte salt can't activate and start to eat away versus when it's in a warm garage.

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That's right, rust (oxidation) needs moisture. Sub zero temps don't provide that, whereas a heated garage does through melt off.

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Originally Posted by 3030

Because GM trucks are built in Mexico now

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The Colorado/Canyon that the OP was inquiring about is built in Wentzville (St. Louis).

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Originally Posted by seabast

Flipping a coin would be better than asking to the public! Every brands can have break down and have recalls, this is a fact.

Just like a gun, try them all and pick the one that feel the best.

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The best answer to the question. My concern with a Nissan would be availability of a local dealer and service costs. Toyota, well, some think they are the best thing since sliced bread, while others feel they are over rated because of the logo on the grille. GM quality has been improving dramatically since their restructuring, and believe it or not, equals or exceeds Japanese vehicles in most cases as per the latest quality surveys.

GM quality has been improving dramatically since their restructuring, and believe it or not, equals or exceeds Japanese vehicles in most cases as per the latest quality surveys.[/QUOTE]

Hahahahahahaha, couldn't get any worse, they're at the bottom of the pile and probably will be for a while.

Hondas and Toyotas are way overpriced. In Sudbury there are two dealerships side by side, a Toyota and a Nissan dealer both owned by the same guy. I priced out two identical vehicles and bought a Nissan Rogue for 5 thousand less with all the exact same options that the Toyota had. When I asked the owner why the difference in price he just pointed to the logo on the Toyota and said people were paying for that.

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Originally Posted by delmer

GM quality has been improving dramatically since their restructuring, and believe it or not, equals or exceeds Japanese vehicles in most cases as per the latest quality surveys.

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Originally Posted by Fisherman

Hahahahahahaha, couldn't get any worse, they're at the bottom of the pile and probably will be for a while.

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As I stated, GM quality equals or exceeds Japanese brands. This is some info about the last couple JD Powers quality reports, which is the gold standard that manufacturers use to measure their quality.

From 2015

For the first time in nearly three decades, Japanese brand vehicles fell below industry average on initial quality, according to a consumer survey by J.D. Power & Associates.
The surprising result is less a measure of faltering by the Japanese and more are a reflection of how much faster other brands are improving. The Japanese brands improved marginally, but failed to keep up with the rest of the industry.

Lexus ranks highest in vehicle dependability among all nameplates for a fourth consecutive year, with a score of 89 PP100.
· Buick (110 PP100) follows Lexus in the rankings, moving up three rank positions from 2014.
· Following Buick in the rankings are Toyota (111 PP100), Cadillac (114 PP100), and Honda and Porsche in a tie (116 PP100 each).
· Notable rank improvements from 2014 include Scion (121 PP100), improving by 13 rank positions from 2014; Ram (134 PP100), improving 11 rank positions; and Mitsubishi (140 PP100), improving 10 rank positions.

General Motors Company and Toyota Motor Corporation each receive seven segment awards.

· GM models receiving an award include the Buick LaCrosse; Chevrolet Camaro; Chevrolet Malibu; Chevrolet Silverado HD; GMC Sierra LD; GMC Terrain; and GMC Yukon.
· Toyota awardees include the Lexus ES; Lexus GX; Scion tC; Scion xB; Scion xD; Toyota Corolla; and Toyota Sienna.

From 2016

Highest-Ranked Nameplates and Models
Lexus ranks highest in vehicle dependability among all nameplates for a fifth consecutive year, with a score of 95 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100).
· Porsche (97 PP100) follows Lexus in the rankings, moving up from fifth in 2015.
· Following Porsche in the rankings are Buick (106 PP100), Toyota (113 PP100) and GMC (120 PP100).

General Motors Company receives eight segment awards and Toyota Motor Corporation six.

· GM models receiving an award include the Buick Encore; Buick LaCrosse; Buick Verano; Chevrolet Camaro; Chevrolet Equinox; Chevrolet Malibu; Chevrolet Silverado HD; and GMC Yukon.
· Toyota awardees include the Lexus ES; Lexus GS; Lexus GX; Toyota Prius v; Toyota Sienna; and Toyota Tundra.
- See more at: http://www.jdpower.com/press-release....Sqk56EYD.dpuf

Something else to consider may be your insurance rates. Before purchasing my new fullsize truck last fall, I quoted the big 3's offerings with my insurance company. (The aluminum truck was most expensive.) For the 3 mid sized trucks you're looking at, it might be another factor to tip the scales.

Sent from my LG-H812 using Tapatalk

My insurance went up 90 bucks a year for the 2016 F150 from my 11 year old 2005 F150, so the theory that insurance rates are going to be higher on aluminum don't seem to be so..

5 star crash test ratings and top safety pick likely help.

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Originally Posted by LowbanksArcher

Something else to consider may be your insurance rates. Before purchasing my new fullsize truck last fall, I quoted the big 3's offerings with my insurance company. (The aluminum truck was most expensive.) For the 3 mid sized trucks you're looking at, it might be another factor to tip the scales.

Sent from my LG-H812 using Tapatalk

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Thanks, I will have to remember to give them a call and ask.... With this weather, makes me glad my vehicle fits in the garage. It is down right nasty out there tonight.

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Originally Posted by last5oh_302

My insurance went up 90 bucks a year for the 2016 F150 from my 11 year old 2005 F150, so the theory that insurance rates are going to be higher on aluminum don't seem to be so..

5 star crash test ratings and top safety pick likely help.

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I quoted em all. There was a difference. GM and Ram were about the same, F150 was more. Not bashing Ford. They're nice trucks and I was seriously close to pulling the trigger on one. I find brand loyalty silly and compared everything equally. They're all great trucks. So it's worth weighing out any measurable difference between them to pick the one you're going to be spending some time with.

Curious to hear your quote comparison Fratri

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Originally Posted by LowbanksArcher

I quoted em all. There was a difference. GM and Ram were about the same, F150 was more. Not bashing Ford. They're nice trucks and I was seriously close to pulling the trigger on one. I find brand loyalty silly and compared everything equally. They're all great trucks. So it's worth weighing out any measurable difference between them to pick the one you're going to be spending some time with.

Curious to hear your quote comparison Fratri

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I believe you but that doesn't seem to be the norm. I was very pleasantly surprised when they told me the new price. Some people claim their premiums went down and some were quoted more on the Ram, so who knows:

http://www.f150forum.com/f118/myth-s...s-f150-291652/

Still driving my 2001 Tacoma Pre Runner, V6 auto 2WD. Have taken it on cart tracks that would sink a Chev and never spun a wheel. Just my .02..............................Daniel

Just buy a full size and be done with it. Believe it or not your operating costs will be very similar, and if you look around the price won't be too far off of a mini truck.

I have a 2008 Taco double cab 4x4, bought when it was 1 yr old, used (USA vehicle) now 140km. I put new frt rotors, pads, new shoes on back, hanger bearing, replaced battery, 3 bulbs in dash and on my 3rd set of tires. I have owned full size dodge, chev/gms and ford gas and diesel. The taco is the best vehicle I ever owned. The taco even got better mileage pulling 2 atv's north than my 6.5 gm diesel. Only thing I miss is the room in a full size but some of my big 3 vehicles had a reserved spot in the dealership for warranty work. Taco never went back for warranty until last year when Toyota recalled it to check frame for rust and did a free undercoating. I must of got a good one built in California

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Originally Posted by diverduck

Just buy a full size and be done with it. Believe it or not your operating costs will be very similar, and if you look around the price won't be too far off of a mini truck.

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Parking, in the mall and garage would be the biggest concerns..... I guess I am spoiled as I have been parking in the garage most of my adult life....
The idea of a full size does sound nice and is appealing but the thought of getting into a frozen truck every morning in the winter before work, not so much...

I guess the next step will be to test drive each of them, then try and find the best price (which won't be easy) then go from there.
Thanks for all the input, much appreciated.

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Originally Posted by thisisit

Big fan of my 2010 Tacoma TRD. Replaced brakes and tires once, other than that just fluids no other issues. Tows everything I've needed it for, decent gas mileage and fits down my narrow driveway no problem.

Something to consider though, I've been shopping around for a cap for my truck and it's a lot harder to find a good deal. With the full size chev/ford there seems to be a lot of used deals out there on accessories, but little harder to find for the toyota.

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Try here http://www.usedtruckcaps.ca/

Tacoma all the way bud. my 2005 has 240k on it and still running like a champ.

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Originally Posted by fratri

Parking, in the mall and garage would be the biggest concerns..... I guess I am spoiled as I have been parking in the garage most of my adult life....

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Get a remote starter...problem solved.

Parking at the mall? I always park the furthest away...helps a guy stay in shape, and you don't get door dingers.

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Originally Posted by Bluebulldog

Parking at the mall? I always park the furthest away...helps a guy stay in shape, and you don't get door dingers.

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Running boards are worth their weight in gold in these regards, as long as they stick out further than the doors. Larger tires and a little lift/level doesn't hurt against aresehole dents as well since most other doors sit low enough and will just hit the running boards.

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Originally Posted by last5oh_302

Running boards are worth their weight in gold in these regards, as long as they stick out further than the doors. Larger tires and a little lift/level doesn't hurt against aresehole dents as well since most other doors sit low enough and will just hit the running boards.

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Yes. I've got a set of nerf bars on my Titan that keep other peoples doors at bay.

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Originally Posted by fratri

I have thought about a full size but there are bigger, won't fit in the garage, are a little bit more pricey and will have a hard time parking them at the mall...Just figure the smaller ones will do everything I need it to do and still fit in my garage...
I have to remember I don't need a truck but would prefer one over another SUV. My SUV has done everything I needed it to do but its getting up there with 249,000 km's.... need to start looking for an alternative. Biggest reason for the truck is so I can separate my outdoor clothes and catch from the cab......

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I drive a 4Runner which is the Tacoma power train. It clearly better on gas than fully size trucks, until you load it with appreciable weight - boat etc. If you are daily driving and commuting without a significant load, your fuel costs will be lower on a 6cyl than an 8cyl full size truck. On a regular drive to and from the cottage, I am about $20 less on gas than my friends with F150, D1500 etc.

With a boat on, they win for sure.

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Originally Posted by Bluebulldog

Get a remote starter...problem solved.

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Really boggled as to why people keep bringing this up. The OP clearly stated gas mileage was a main line item in his decision.

So why do folks constantly suggest the waste of fuel for pre-heating a truck cab as a selling point?

Ridiculous.