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The world of used 4×4 trucks is extremely popular among enthusiasts. Instead of having to pay for a new pickup, you can find something that fits within your budget. But with so many options out there, you might be wondering which used truck to look for and which one you should avoid. MotorTrend thinks that a used Toyota Tacoma may be your best bet. 

Are used Toyota Tacomas worth it?

Generally speaking, the Toyota Tacoma has been a solid mid-size truck over the years, making a used model a safe choice. You will probably have to pay a slight premium over other models, just because this Toyota pickup truck is such a sought-after model. 

According to MotorTrend, the Tacoma is almost a no-brainer as a used 4×4 truck. No matter which model year you are looking for. Better yet, the Toyota’s small pickup has a thriving aftermarket community. So, if you are interested in modifying your mid-size truck, that is something that you can easily do. 

Most Tacomas should be reliable

No matter the generation, the Toyota Tacoma does have a reputation for reliability. The truck does come with standard rear-wheel drive, but for an additional cost, you can find a used model with 4WD. A used 4×4 truck is ideal for tasks like off-roading, especially if you are able to find a pre-owned Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro within your budget.

A used 4x4 truck, the Toyota Tacoma shows off its styling in the wilderness.
2012 Toyota Tacoma | Boston Herald via Getty Images

The TRD Pro has long been the off-road trim for the Tacoma. It adds things like a locking differential and other off-road goodies that don’t come with the standard model. Of course, most trims of the Tacoma are fairly capable. So you do not necessarily need to pay extra for a TRD model. 

How expensive is a used Tacoma 4×4?

The answer to that really depends on the trim, condition, and year of the mid-size truck you are looking at. A truck that is older and with higher mileage will be cheaper than a newer pickup. But you might miss out on some of the features that you are looking for. Plus, reliability could come into question. Especially if the Tacoma in question has had multiple owners. 

Reliable and popular compact trucks from 2016 like the Toyota Tacoma, this one has 4x4 truck capability.
A 2016 Toyota Tacoma | Toyota

According to Vehicle History, the Tacoma is a mid-size truck that is known to last for some time. So, that should add to your peace of mind in purchasing a 4×4 pickup truck. Even if it does have some additional miles on the clock. 

What is the best used 4×4 pickup?

Ultimately, the best used truck is the one that fits your budget and your lifestyle needs. In the case of the Tacoma, it is ready to tackle a variety of roles. Plus, you get the perceived reliability of a Toyota pickup. 

As a mid-size truck, the Tacoma is often at the top of many lists. It offers an available V6 engine, as well as 4WD. Plus, it boasts rugged styling, which is probably a perk to most truck owners. A used model might be more expensive than something like a Nissan Frontier. But you really can’t go wrong with a 4×4 Tacoma.

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