Question

Bobby Milo · January 8, 2020

I would like to buy a truck. I want a truck with the small second seats to have the ability to set the driver seat back, and put my pets back there. I would like a standard bed, at least over 5.6 as want to put a bed platform. Would be looking for 4 wheel drive and the best gas mileage available. And I do not want to pay over $20,000 for a used version, want to use for camping and beach trips.

what type of truck fits that bill? What year?
thanks,

Bobby

Mikebtte · January 9, 2020

Toyota Tacoma.

Go get it.

Donstar · January 9, 2020

Your desire to buy a 4x4 full sized pickup that has noteworthy fuel economy for no more than $20k may be a little unrealistic, imo. My recommendation based on your wish list would be a 2014+ double cab 4x4 Silverado or Sierra with the basic trim level. They come with a 6.5' box and a 4.3 V6 base motor. However you will likely need to increase your budget to find one. You can get an older version of the same model but it won't have the superior gas mileage of the post 2014 trucks.

Cpl_Punishment · January 9, 2020

I would also consider a 2014+ with the 5.3L V8 as I believe fuel economy could be similar to the V6 in a full size pickup, especially when hauling anything, but that engine has been around a bit longer so may be more reliable. At a quick glance there are a few double cabs in western Canada for less than $20k CAD, though I didn't investigate engines/ options/ etc.

From what I've heard, the Tacoma has atrocious fuel economy for what it is, though the older ones could be better.

Colossus · January 9, 2020

If you can find a low millage GMT-800 (1999-2006) extended cab standard bed 5.3L or 4.8L that would be a good solid truck. If performance isn't too big of a deal, the 4.3L V6 in those years was real good too. Go full size for sure. Even the GMT-900s (2007 - 2013) were decent as well, though I don't like the active fuel management issues on the 5.3L.

L86 All Terrain · January 21, 2020

You should be able to get a K2 (2014-2018) for that price range. I bought my 2014 WT 5.3L 4 door standard box, 4x4 with big display screen, power mirros and Sirius radio used in 2016 with 65,000mi on it for $19,999 CAD (15.3k USD). But if you can find a clean GMT900 (2007.5-2013) they are more reliable mechanically. Smooth as silk, tough, and very dependable, no software updates like these modern ones. However they do have bad paint, so you have to maintain it diligently.