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So How Will the New 2024 Ranger Raptor Fair Against the New Tacoma?
uthunter
Well-Known Member
Comparing the Tacoma to the Raptor is like comparing the Corolla to the... well, Raptor.
They're not even playing the same game.
I'll give Toyota credit for their marketing though, they've even got their buyers talking up drum brakes and outdated drive trains like they're an upgrade because Toyota told them they were.
It's like when Chevy was telling everybody that aluminum wouldn't work in a truck body when they were just really, really far behind in technology and playing catch-up.
They're not even playing the same game.
I'll give Toyota credit for their marketing though, they've even got their buyers talking up drum brakes and outdated drive trains like they're an upgrade because Toyota told them they were.
It's like when Chevy was telling everybody that aluminum wouldn't work in a truck body when they were just really, really far behind in technology and playing catch-up.
goalieThreeOne
Well-Known Member
The funniest part of the new TRD Pro is those suspension seats. All that engineering just to give your seat a couple inches of movement. What a useless gimmick.
The Tacoma will sell well as it always does. The new hybrid power train will appeal to a lot of people and isn’t a slouch either (~360HP). It will also coast on reputation, and the Cult of Toyota. Make no mistake it will outsell the Ranger without a doubt.
But none of that really matters. Car brands are not sports teams that you need to cheer for. Outselling a competitor brand doesn’t make your purchase more justified or worthwhile. It doesn’t make you the better consumer. All that matters is that you buy the right vehicle for you personally and that you’re happy with it.
The Tacoma will sell well as it always does. The new hybrid power train will appeal to a lot of people and isn’t a slouch either (~360HP). It will also coast on reputation, and the Cult of Toyota. Make no mistake it will outsell the Ranger without a doubt.
But none of that really matters. Car brands are not sports teams that you need to cheer for. Outselling a competitor brand doesn’t make your purchase more justified or worthwhile. It doesn’t make you the better consumer. All that matters is that you buy the right vehicle for you personally and that you’re happy with it.
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nappy
Well-Known Member
- Thread starter
- #6
I almost bought a Tacoma, then went down the street and drove a Ranger. I drove home with the Ranger. I couldn't believe how poorly the Tocama shifted and struggled to find the right gear on hills. The drive experience, cockpit, etc all were far better on the Ford, IMO. I'd like to drive a new Tacoma however, but I'll likely be sticking with Ford. And Yes, Toyota sells a lot based on reputation so the diehards will likely be happy.
goalieThreeOne
Well-Known Member
Test drove a 4Runner TRD Pro. It was perhaps one of the slowest and clunkiest vehicles I’d ever driven. Granted it’s not meant for speed, but it felt absolutely geriatric compared to my Ex Platinum. I knew immediately Toyota wasn’t for me. Even if I liked the truck, the arrogance of the sales staff talking about their markups, lead times, trash talking local competitors was off putting. The cherry on top is that you can’t get a custom ordered Toyota. You just have to drop the cash and wait in line for whatever they give you. I’ll respectfully pass. Toyota’s aren’t necessarily reliable as their reputation leads you to believe. Had a buddy with an Avalon and a broken UCA. In order to replace this $100 part you have to pull the engine to get access to the bolt. $3000 repair bill. The best marketing Toyota ever got was the Top Gear Hilux segment convincing everyone that their Toyota is indestructible.
Snkrjeff020
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Those seats are ridiculous. If you are a hardcore off-roader, fine they are cool. But for 90% of the people buying a Pro, pretty sure the poser factor goes up with those seats.
KevR
Well-Known Member
Tacomas have been very reliable but the lack of engine options always bugged me. The top of the line TRD Pro having the same motor as a TRD Sport or Off Road... and not a big motor.. a sluggish minivan motor. They make stupid decisions, like if you want a TRD Pro you have to have a red interior with those bulky seats with a suspension. Nothing has impressed me like the RR, only time will tell how the 24 Tacomas compare.
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nappy
Well-Known Member
- Thread starter
- #13
Ha, I just drove the 4Runner TRD Pro the other day!
Over $60K and I was equally disappointed. The front end felt like a boat and agree with you regarding performance. The only thing that was impressive was how much room there is in the back (I was considering an enclosed SUV for off-roading camping, etc.), but a well equipped pickup just works better for most of my needs I think. The SUV was tempting, but I just can't that price for what you get. I do know that for those that have the 4Runner TRD Pro, they do love them, but I was mostly disappointed.
goalieThreeOne
Well-Known Member
Compared to the Ex I’m coming from, the 4Runner is pretty pitiful on the inside.
SGT Ranger
Well-Known Member
Point Blank, the Raptor is for the time being king of the hill.
Comparing non-Raptor trim levels would be more appropriate.
Comparing non-Raptor trim levels would be more appropriate.
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