I have travelled for work for years and after owning Chevy Silverados, moved to an SUV after my last truck was totaled. This choice was mostly due to high gas prices. I’m looking to get back into a truck and after doing my research and watching Scotty’s videos have decided to go with either a used Toyota Tundra or Tacoma.
The Tundra is a little pricey for me so I was thinking a recent Tacoma, 2021-2023. There are a bunch of one owner low mileage Tacomas with the L4 out there. I saw Scotty’s video on his 2017 4 cylinder work truck and the more decked out V6 TRD but nothing on the L4.
I’m seeing that there may be issues with the L4 and wondering if I’m better staying away from them. Any feedback and advice is greatly appreciated
They don't make L-4s, you're thinking of I-4s (they look like an I when viewed from overhead).
It depends on what your intentions are with it. If you don't tow much and you prefer a truck to commute in, the I-4 is fine. If you're going to tow, get a V6.
@justin-shepherd I thought L4 was the same as I4? L for linear or I for inline. For example my Volvo 960 is a 2.9L straight 6 labeled as an L6
I've always said I-4 or Straight-4. You're right, I guess, but I prefer I-4. L-4 seems really awkward. I think there should be an L-shape to them, and they're not that way. It's semantics, I guess.
@justin-shepherd L for linear or longitudinal*
L shape engine would just be a a 90° V configuration
I know that. Like I said, it's semantics. When I would describe an inline engine, I use the I-4, etc. because my brain likes it, I guess.
Pre 2024 Tacomas have the 2.7l 2TR-FE engines which are considered bullet proof. Keep up on routine maintenance and they're good for 200000 miles. I have one in a '19 Tacoma which I'm very happy with. The only thing is fuel consumption, the 4 banger only gets slightly better mpg than the 6.
