Toyota Trucks Need to Copy This Intelligent Ram Feature
Ready or not, the new Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Tundra are here. Some fans aren’t ready to move on, though. Instead of new hybrid engines, they want the durable V8 and the same old durable frames. That’s why the Toyota Tacoma and Tundra could benefit from one of the Ram 1500’s classic moves.
The Toyota Tundra and Toyota Tacoma need classic models
The newest Toyota Tundra arrived with a few issues to address, such as quality and electrical problems. Now, the next-generation Toyota Tacoma is here and could arrive with a lower reliability rating, like the Tundra.
However, truck drivers loyal to the brand must either make peace with the changes or consider rival options. Toyota could easily keep drivers around with classic versions of the last-generation Tundra and Tacoma.
For example, the old model wasn’t discontinued when the redesigned Ram 1500 came out. Instead, Stellantis continues to offer the Ram 1500 Classic for those who want a more affordable yet capable option. It has lasted because it’s still popular.
Stellantis did the same thing with the Jeep Grand Cherokee WK Classic and sold them until demand fizzled out.
In 2022, the Tacoma sold 237,323 models in the United States, while the 2022 Ford Ranger only moved about 57,005 models. We’re willing to bet that a classic Tacoma could still beat modern, updated options like the 2024 Ford Ranger and the brand-new 2023 Chevy Colorado.
This way, Toyota could still offer a Tacoma that starts under $30,000, as the 2024 model begins at $31,500. Of course, the Tundra Classic would be more affordable as well.
Are Toyota trucks becoming less reliable?
The new Toyota Tundra did experience a tumble in reliability rankings. In 2021, J.D.Power gave it a score of 86 out of 100, which is great. This is an above-average score.
Anything between 70 and 80 is average, while scores between 81 and 90 are above average, and rankings between 91 and 100 are best.
In 2022, when the new generation launched, the reliability score dropped to 70. That’s a massive 16-point loss, which is concerning. However, in 2023, the Tundra got a 78, so at least things are starting to improve since the current model launched.
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma earned a score of 81, just making it into the above-average section. The 2022 Tacoma got an 83, displaying a solid improvement, and the 2023 holds strong with the same score of 73 out of 100.
However, it’s not uncommon for reliability ratings to dip when a new model arrives. Some critics suggest never buying the first model year of a new vehicle because it may have kinks that need to be worked out.
We’re glad that the Tundra is turning things back around, but we will have to watch how the new Tacoma performs.
Do Toyota trucks hold their value?
Yes, the Toyota Tundra and Toyota Tacoma hold their value extremely well. The current Tundra has an estimated resale value of 73.3% after five years of ownership. It actually has the number one resale value in the industry.
After five years, the Tacoma is expected to maintain about 66% of its value. It has the second highest rale value in the industry and is the top option among midsize trucks.
Higher resale values typically correlate with demand. Dealerships can sell used Toyota trucks at higher prices. Plus, these trucks have long generations, allowing for more standardized parts.
As a result, parts can be easier to find and repair, leading to lower maintenance costs. It probably helps that these trucks have a long-lasting, durable reputation, too.
Do we sound like we’re taking crazy pills, or are we on to something? Would you be interested in a classic Toyota Tacoma or Toyota Tundra model?
