Buying a Used Tacoma--best year?

Just bought my 16 yr old a 2018 SR5 with 58k miles on it. I researched and tracker autotrader and gar gurus daily for 4 months.

My opinion, for any 3rd gen (16-23), the year does not matter at all as far as pricing or reliability goes. It is based on mileage. I also would not get 4wd unless needed. It drives the price way up for that being the only additional feature. They are all pretty much the same on the interior with the exception of the limited. I got a V6 but that is only because the price was right. I was actually looking for a 4 cylinder due it being a virtually bullet proof and reliable motor. The I4 is slow as molasses but sort of liked that for my new driver. Also, most SR's do not come with a hitch or trailer plugs, so it would have to be added or maybe the off chance she finds one someone already added. Most SR5 do have the hitch and plug from factory.

Let me know if you have other questions. I sort of feel like an expert at this point.

I bought a ‘97 Extended cab 4x4 in ‘06. Having the 4x4 won’t hurt you except it will cost a tad more up front. Good luck.

Gen 1 - Gen 3 (whichever’s last Gen with 4 ltr.)

05-15 has the reliable 4.0L V6

09 tacoma owner here, 206k miles and rolling

I have a 2000 extended cab 4x4 . It has a 4 cylinder with 5 speed stick shift . 375,000 miles . Only issue is having to get out and lock hubs . Been a good one .

I will never understand why everyone is obsessed with the Tacoma, after the 3.4 it really was not as reliable as what it was made out to be.

Might consider looking at Nissan Frontiers. They have been very reliable as well.