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Finding a 4th-Gen Toyota Tacoma Manual is the real off-road challenge.
Toyota’s all-new 4th-generation Tacoma is a hot seller, but if you’re looking for one with a manual transmission, you might be in for a long wait. Just ask Collin Strand.
He hunted high and low, traveling across states, and putting down deposits to get his hands on a new six-speed Tacoma. It turns out that some Tacoma trims, especially those with both a manual transmission and the upgraded 14-inch display screen, are proving to be extremely difficult to find.
What’s behind the “unicorn hunt” for the new Tacoma manual, and is Toyota making enough of them?
There was a time, not so long ago, when buying a manual transmission in a new truck was easy. But not anymore. Now, manual transmission Tacoma buyers are willing to go to incredible lengths to find one. Due to their limited availability, 6-Speed Tacomas are in high demand.
To get an accurate read on the situation, I’ve been keeping a close eye on the pulse of the enthusiast community. What I found in the 4th Generation Toyota Tacoma Owners Facebook Group is a microcosm of the larger market dynamic. For many, this isn’t just about buying a new truck; it’s a quest for a “unicorn,” a term of endearment for a vehicle that seems to exist more in legend than in dealership lots.
As Collin Strand noted on the 4th Generation Toyota Tacoma Owners Facebook Group, “I’ve been doing a nationwide search for months for a TRD OR manual with a 14″ screen. As soon as I find one, someone else has beaten me to it.” I wish Toyota were making more of them!” This sentiment is echoed across the country, painting a picture of a dedicated, yet frustrated, growing number of buyers.
The challenge, as these owners describe it, is multifaceted. It begins with the simple fact of scarcity. The demand for the manual-equipped TRD Off-Road model, particularly with the larger infotainment screen, outstrips supply by a considerable margin.
Our sources indicate that manual transmissions account for a mere 3% of the Tacoma’s total sales volume in 2024, a small slice of a massive pie. While that’s a decent number in terms of raw volume, it translates to a profound rarity at the local dealership level.
Collin Strand perfectly captured the feeling of triumph: he says, “I found a unicorn yesterday. It’s the first new vehicle I ever bought. Marty McFly would be proud.” The sheer joy and relief in that statement speak volumes about the effort required.
The hunt isn’t just an inventory search; it’s a masterclass in persistence and negotiation.
Another group member shared their arduous journey, noting, “Man, the struggle is real. It took working with a local dealer to find one. It took three visits and a deposit before they admitted they could place an order with Toyota.”
This reveals a critical insight for prospective buyers: the traditional “special order” process for a Toyota is a myth. The reality is a complex allocation system where dealers receive pre-selected trucks, and a salesperson’s willingness to work the system on your behalf is the key to success.
Patience, it turns out, is more than a virtue—it’s a necessity.
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The wait times can be extensive, and the search can extend far beyond your local town. The digital world has made the hunt both easier and more complicated. While online communities provide invaluable intelligence on what’s out there, the competition is fierce. One dedicated buyer shared their story of persistence: “It’s a different world out there today. I finally got a deposit on a pre-sale arriving next month that’s 5 hours away.” This willingness to travel for a specific configuration underscores the passion of these buyers and highlights the importance of expanding your search radius.
Interestingly, while the nationwide search for a TRD OR manual with a 14″ screen is the ultimate goal for many, some have found that a slight compromise can yield a faster result.
As one owner remarked, “Yeah, the manuals with an 8″ screen are easier to come by… a few roll through locally every month. The big screen will be so nice with the OnX app, though!” This is a crucial practical takeaway. If you’re not willing to wait or travel great distances, being flexible on specific options can significantly reduce the lead time.
The most surprising finding from my research is the inconsistency in pricing.
While market forces typically dictate higher prices for scarce items, some dedicated buyers are finding the opposite to be true. One lucky new owner celebrated, “I got a great deal on it too, surprisingly. It has the 14″ screen as well as heated seats and a sway bar disconnect without any of the expensive upgrade packages. Unicorn!”
In The End
For those willing to hunt and negotiate, it’s possible to secure a 6-speed manual Tacoma with the most desirable off-road and convenience features without being forced into a costly “premium” or “technology” package that includes things you don’t want. The key is finding a model that hits the sweet spot of features and avoiding the high-margin bundles.
The takeaway is clear: don’t give up hope, as a great deal can be found if you’re patient and diligent.
These stories from the digital trenches offer a clear roadmap for anyone hoping to join the manual Tacoma fraternity. It’s a journey that requires research, a bit of luck, and a whole lot of persistence. But as these owners prove, the reward is more than just a truck; it’s a sense of accomplishment, a connection to a community, and the keys to a vehicle that truly is a modern legend.
How About You?
Are you willing to search and wait to get a manual gearbox Toyota Tacoma? If so, click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know.
Check out my 2025 Toyota Tacoma story: 2025 Toyota Tacoma Owner Says, “My Favorite Part of the new Tacoma? It’s Not the Truck! It’s a New Key Fob”
I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012. My 30+ year tenure in the automotive industry, initially in a consulting role with every major car brand and later as a freelance journalist test-driving new vehicles, has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge. I specialize in reporting the latest automotive news, covering owner stories, and providing expert analysis, ensuring that you are always well-informed and up-to-date. Follow me on X @DenisFlierl, @WorldsCoolestRides, Facebook, and Instagram
Photo credit: Denis Flierl via Collin Strand
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Source: torquenews.com
