I just want to be clear I'm talking about Gulf States Toyota, the regional distributor, not a specific dealership. On the sticker, Gulf States add-ons will be listed as PIO (port-installed options) and the dealers add-ons will be under DIO (dealer-installed options).
I generally use Toyota's own search tool, but I change my zip code and play with the radius of the search. Not perfect, but workable. There's an inventory list here in the forums somewhere, but it doesn't contain pricing. It could help you find where the trucks are, though. I'm going for a rare...
I don't think it's a bad thing to get the facts out there so people know right off the bat to shop around. It's good for people who are still looking to know that Gulf States doesn't provide good value with their port-installed options.
The trouble with Gulf States is the founder really was a pioneer when it comes to Toyota. He was one of the first people to introduce the brand into the US, and he helped grow their early market share. With a legacy like that, they'll be tough to dislodge. I feel like they've drifted away from...
Oh, sorry - don't even get me started on, "predator steps." Tons of options for hundreds less. You're going to bend those steps the first time you go offroad. They'll collect ALL the slush in the winter.
Garbage.
Top-rated rock sliders are hundreds less.
I broke down the PIO from Gulf States and came to the following conclusions:
Ball Mount - $89.00 from GS, $20.42 from Amazon, $23.77 from etrailer.com, and $65 from autoparts.toyot.com
Blackout package - $349 from GS, no way to know the actual value.
Dashcam - $499 from GS, $450 from...
I hope to pick mine up in Arkansas and then drive it back to VA (once they make it). My plan is to enjoy some short trips in AR the week of pickup, and then drive back on country roads. Sure it will take forever, but it'll be an adventure, and I'll be forced to vary my speed quite a bit.
I use these little convex rectangular mirrors on my 2004. Once you get used to them, they're great. Less than $10 at your local auto parts store or giant online vendor.
I believe this list excludes some regions that don't release allocation data. One that I know is private is Gulf States Toyota. I think the OP posted which regions are included early in this thread.
To sum up, the Gulf States accesories are basically a distributor markup that you get on a, "take it or leave it," basis. I'll talk to my dealer later, but I'm pretty sure they have no ability to refuse the package.
The Gulf States options are a huge disappointment that just make me want to wait or go to a dealership outside their area:
Ball Mount - I have my OWN ball mount that fits my application. I can get a new one for less than $89.
Blackout Package - $399 for a tailgate insert and a couple black...
I want a TRD Off-Road with the Off-Road Premium Package. I'd prefer to have the 6MT. I can only justify that preference by saying it's just more fun for me to drive a stick. I own a 2004 Tacoma TRD Off Road with a manual, and I love it.
Looking at the builds that are being allocated, it's...