In today’s world, there are more than 90% of Toyota trucks are now been sold than they were about a decade ago. The Tundra and Tacoma now win Toyota is a well-known and respected automaker that has been producing reliable and durable vehicles for decades back to back accolades from Kelly Blue Book (KBB) for their resale value, demonstrating that they are long-lasting vehicles.
If you need a truck, consider Toyota as it is known for its reliability, durability, and off-road capabilities. Whether you’re hauling heavy loads or tackling rough terrain, a Toyota truck can handle the job. Toyota offers a wide range of trucks to suit different needs and preferences from the full-size Tundra to the mid-size Tacoma.
So whether you’re looking for a dependable workhorse or a capable off-road vehicle, you’re sure to find something that fits the bill within Toyota’s truck lineup. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at these two Toyota trucks and explore their key features, pros, cons and capabilities. So, let’s get started and take a closer look at what Toyota has to offer in the world of pickup trucks.
Similarities
The Toyota Tundra and Tacoma are quite similar looking at the make and trims aside from being from the same parent manufacturer as they are both two or four-wheel drive, two-engine sizes, two-cab sizes, and multiple beds size vehicles. Moreso, both trucks come with similar driver-assist features; similar interior aesthetics and edges.
The reasons for similarities are not far-fetched as it is a result of Toyota’s international expansion plan to be globally recognised with manufacturing plants in different countries across the world. The Tundra and Tacoma are American-made trucks. For instance, the Tundra’s engine is made in the United States, and the truck itself is designed in Michigan and California, with the assembly at the Toyota San Antonio facility, in Texas. The utmost significant differences in these trucks lie in the levels of capabilities and physical traits.
Differences in Key Features
The Toyota Tundra and Toyota Tacoma are two popular pickup trucks that are often compared to each other. Both vehicles offer strong performance, reliability, and off-road capabilities, but which one is the better choice? we’ll take a detailed look at the Tundra and Tacoma and compare them in various categories to help you decide which truck is the best fit for you.
Interior
- Seat appearance
Both pickups come standard with appealing fabric seat surfaces, and leather-trimmed heated front seats are an option. However, only the Tundra has optional heated rear seats in addition to ventilated front and back seats. Front dual zone automatic temperature control is a feature found on higher trim levels of the Tundra, but it is standard on the Tacoma. Both vehicles have compact chairs to help you keep roomy enough for up to five people but the Tacoma is sturdier with the driver having to keep his feet outstretched while driving to connect to the brake, and gas pedal.
- Multitainment system
Both the Tacoma and the Tundra include multimedia touchscreen systems that support Apple CarPlay®, Android AutoTM, and Amazon Alexa in addition to Bluetooth® wireless technology as standard equipment for keeping you connected. The normal touchscreen size for the Tacoma is 7 inches, while the usual touchscreen size for the Tundra is 8 inches, with the option to upgrade to a 14-inch touchscreen on higher trim levels. The Tacoma offers wireless charging as an upgrade, while the Tundra comes standard with Smart Key features, remote start, and other features.
- Legroom Space
The Toyota Tundra provides front-seat passengers with 41.0 inches of headroom and 41.2 inches of legroom, which is more than its smaller predecessor. Back seat passengers in Tundra CrewMax configurations will have plenty of space to spread out owing to 38.5 inches of headroom and 41.6 inches of legroom. The Tacoma on the other hand has 42.9 inches of legroom in the front seat and 39.7 inches of headroom inside the cabin. Passengers in the back seat of Double Cab vehicles will have 32.6 inches of legroom and 38.3 inches of headroom
Exterior
The Tundra and Tacoma have similar-appearing tailgates with embossed text in various places on the backs of their respective vehicles. Tacoma has characteristics and appearance that give the truck a more aggressive look. The exterior features of both trucks can easily be summaried as:
Tundra
- A choice of three different cab styles: regular, extended, and crew
- A choice of two bed sizes: 5.5 feet or 6.5 feet
- A choice of two-wheel or four-wheel drive
- A standard towing capacity of 6,800 pounds (with the right equipment)
Tacoma
- A choice of two cab styles: extended or crew
- A choice of two-bed sizes: 5 feet or 6 feet
- A choice of two-wheel or four-wheel drive
- A standard towing capacity of 6,800 pounds (with the right equipment
Since the smaller of the two trucks, the Tacoma comes standard with a 5.8-foot short bed, 16-inch steel wheels, and a 9.4-inch ground clearance. The Tundra allows a normal bed size of a 5.5-foot short bed, with the option to upgrade to a 6.5- or 8.1-foot bed.
Price
The starting price for a Toyota Tacoma usually starts at $27,250 and can culminates to $46,685 in the TRD Pro model. The Toyota Tundra has an average starting price of $36,965. The price climbs to roughly $59,000 for the midrange Platinum trim, while the top TRD Pro and Capstone trims are at $68,520 and $75,245, respectively. Generally the Tundra is more expensive than the Tacoma, if you consider the less basic price of around $50,000, with a corresponding Tacoma that could cost around $42,000.
Performance
The main difference between the two is the size and capabilities, with the Tundra being larger and more powerful than the Tacoma. It comes down to what you need the truck for and how much power and space you require.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the base 2.5-litre 4-cylinder engine in an RWD Tacoma will achieve an estimated 20 mpg in the city, 23 mpg on the interstate, and 21 mpg overall. V6 engine installed. If you want your full-size vehicle to have the most potential, the Toyota Tundra is an alternative. With its possible 12,000-pound towing capacity, strong front brakes, and available long-haul 32.2-gallon fuel tank, the Tundra can help you get over any hurdle in your way.
From this insight, it has been revealed that despite being bigger and more powerful, the Tundra is also more expensive and fuel-efficient. The Tacoma has a smaller towing capacity and a rougher ride, despite being more fuel-efficient and agile. If you need a bigger, more powerful car with greater towing capacity, the Tundra might be a better choice. If you prefer a smaller, more fuel-efficient truck that is simpler to manoeuvre in tight spaces, the Tacoma might be a better option.
Additional specs difference
Other difference is the suspension and handling and engine capability. The Tundra for instance has a more rigid suspension and a longer wheelbase, which can provide a smoother and more stable ride. The Tacoma has a more agile and responsive suspension, which can make it more fun to drive on winding roads. The Tundra can also have a larger and more powerful engine than the Tacoma, with a choice of a 5.7 liter V8 or a 4.6 liter V8.
The Tacoma has a smaller engine, with a choice of a 2.7 litre inline-4 or a 3.5 litre V6. This means that the Tundra has a higher towing capacity and can haul heavier loads than the Tacoma. Other notable differences between the Tundra and Tacoma include: The Tacoma has a more off-road oriented design, with features such as skid plates and an optional crawl control system
Choice Model Versus
Tundra TRD PRO
Tacoma TRD PRO
The Toyota Tundra Trd Pro Versus Toyota Tacoma Trd Pro
The Toyota Tundra TRD Pro and Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro are both impressive trucks that offer plenty of power, capability, and off-road performance. The Tacoma model has created a rich history, which every successive model is known to inherit, unlike the Tundra which has yet to have a defined legacy in its succession line. Taking the same truck model from the Tundra and Tacoma keeps the comparison on a fair scale of judgement.
First, let’s look at the size. The Tundra is the larger of the two trucks, with a full-size crew cab body and a longer wheelbase. This gives it more interior space and a more comfortable ride, but it also means it’s less manoeuvrable and has a higher profile, which can make it more prone to tipping over in off-road situations. The Tacoma, on the other hand, is a mid-size truck with a compact crew cab body and a shorter wheelbase. This makes it more agile and easier to drive in tight spaces, but it also means it has less interior space and a rougher ride.
Next, let’s consider power and performance. Both the Tundra and Tacoma TRD Pro models come with a V8 engine, but the Tundra’s engine is larger and more powerful, with a displacement of 5.7 litres compared to the Tacoma’s 3.5 litres. The Tundra also has a higher towing capacity, with a maximum of 10,200 pounds compared to the Tacoma’s 6,800 pounds. However, the Tacoma is a little more fuel efficient, with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 17 mpg city and 22 mpg highway compared to the Tundra’s 15 mpg city and 18 mpg highway.
When it comes to off-road performance, both trucks are well-equipped to handle rough terrain. The Tundra TRD Pro comes with FOX shock absorbers, a front skid plate, and a variety of other off-road features. The Tacoma TRD Pro also has FOX shock absorbers and a front skid plate, as well as a special off-road suspension and crawl control technology to help it navigate steep inclines and rocky terrain.
Finally, let’s compare prices. The Tundra TRD Pro is generally more expensive than the Tacoma TRD Pro, with a starting price of around $50,000 compared to Tacoma’s starting price of around $42,000. However, the Tundra also comes with more standard features, such as a power-adjustable driver’s seat and a larger touchscreen display.
In conclusion, both the Toyota Tundra TRD Pro and Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro are excellent trucks with plenty of power, capability, and off-road performance. The Tundra is larger and more powerful, but it’s also more expensive and less fuel efficient. The Tacoma is more agile and fuel efficient, but it has a lower towing capacity and a rougher ride. Ultimately, the right truck for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Pros of Tundra
The Toyota Tundra is of formidable quality and the advantages of owning one include:
- Energy Efficiency
The previous-generation Tundra received a lot of flaws for its disappointing fuel economy. This vehicle no longer has one of the lowest ratings for fuel efficiency in its class. According to estimates, the new Tundra can get up to 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the interstate. Just to refresh your memory, the previous model was rated at 13 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the interstate. Despite the lack of current fuel economy figures for the hybrid powertrain, drivers can still benefit from the Tundra’s all-electric driving mode, which keeps them energy efficient.
- Exciting Look
The Toyota Tundra provides enough room for passengers as usual. Pleasant seating is available to all passengers, whether they are going locally or farther. Even if they are situated in the rear, there will be plenty of room for your family and friends to spread their legs. You will also value the Tundra’s functional storage areas. The Tundra is also available in a variety of eye-catching colours, including Barcelona Red Metallic, Quicksand, and Army Green.
- V6 Engine with Turbocharger
The V8 engine from the 2021 Toyota Tundra will be replaced by a brand-new twin-turbo V6 engine. While this engine’s base trim makes 348 horsepower, higher trims create 389 horsepower and a useful 479 lb-ft of torque. A brand-new 10-speed automatic transmission aids in a smooth and dependable operation. New owners might anticipate quick acceleration.
- Modern Composite Bed
The composite bed for the Tundra is quite helpful to drivers as it significantly lessens the pickup’s overall weight because it is lighter than a conventional steel bed. This bed is stronger and designed to support a heavier payload. A UV-resistant layer offers sun protection in the meantime. Toyota built the bed with an easy-lift tailgate to reduce the effort required to carry cargo.
- Newly Developed I-Force Max Hybrid Engine
For those seeking more power, the new Toyota i-Force Max hybrid engine is available. It combines the previously mentioned electric motor with the twin-turbo V6 engine. Overall, a potent 437 horsepower is generated. Drivers will also value the Tundra’s 583 lb-ft of torque, which is handy for hauling and towing. It uses the same new 10-speed automatic transmission as the standard engine. Approximately 6.0 seconds should be needed to reach a competitive 0-60 mph speed.
Cons of Tundra
The Toyota Tundra is a reliable and capable pickup truck that offers plenty of features and capabilities. However, it does have some cons, such as:
- No More V8 Engine
One of the biggest cons of the Toyota Tundra is that it no longer comes with a V8 engine option. The Tundra’s standard engine is now a 5.7-liter V8, which is still a powerful and capable engine, but some drivers may prefer the extra power and torque that a V8 engine provides. The Tundra’s lack of a V8 engine option may be a disadvantage for drivers who need a lot of power for towing or hauling heavy loads.
- Hybrid Battery Requires Some Under-Seat Space
Another con of the Tundra is that the hybrid model’s battery pack takes up some under-seat storage space. The Tundra hybrid’s battery pack is located under the front seats, which means that the space under the seats is not as deep as it is in the non-hybrid models. This can be a drawback for drivers who need a lot of storage space or who frequently carry large items in their truck.
- Price Increase
The Tundra is also more expensive than some other trucks in its class. The starting price for a Tundra is around $36,000, which is higher than the starting prices for some competing trucks. The Tundra’s higher price may be a deterrent for some drivers who are looking for a more budget-friendly or pocket friendly option.
Pros of Tacoma
Using its The Toyota Tacoma, a vehicle of exceptional quality, affords you the benefits of the following:
- Better offroad and good for manovere
The Toyota Tacoma’s available 3.5-litre V6 engine makes a substantial contribution to the car’s strong performance. This engine can generate a torque of 265 pound-feet and 278 horsepower. Strong hauling, dependable towing, and smooth acceleration are all made possible by this amount of power. Trails are also no problem for any Tacoma, this why a Tacoma can go through tight spaces easily when compared to a Tundra.
- The Appealing Exterior
The Toyota Tacoma has a tough-yet-stylish exterior. This attractive truck perfectly mixes modern style with the classic look of a sturdy pickup truck. A distinctive grille, LED headlights and taillights, different wheel styles, and other appealing aesthetic characteristics are also included.
- Safety Features
Every new Toyota Tacoma model comes with a state-of-the-art airbag system. Anti-lock brakes, stability control, and traction control are standard equipment on every model. The tire pressure gauge and the blind-spot monitor aid in the driver’s increased awareness of their own vehicle and the surroundings.
Cons of Tacoma
- The Small Backseat Area
One potential downside of the Toyota Tacoma is that it has a small backseat area, which may be a concern for those who frequently have passengers in the back of the truck. The backseat may feel cramped, especially for taller passengers, and there may not be as much legroom as some drivers would like.
- High-ground clearance
Another potential con of the Toyota Tacoma is its high ground clearance, which can make it more difficult to get in and out of the truck for some people. This may be especially inconvenient for elderly or mobility-impaired individuals, as they may have to climb higher to enter the vehicle. The high ground clearance can also make the truck feel less stable on the road and may result in a rougher ride for passengers.
Takeaway and Recommendation
Every time a potential truck owner walks into a car dealership, it is best if considered this guide,
especially when choosing between a Tundra and Tacoma. The Toyota Tacoma will be more appealing to individuals who adore the pickup truck body style and wish to utilize some of its characteristics while nevertheless maintaining greater mobility and efficiency. The mid-size Tacoma may be customized to either become your opulent family car or to elevate off-roading to a new level.
Conclusion
There are some comparisons made between the Toyota Tundra and Toyota Tacoma, two well-known pickup trucks. Which of the two cars is the better option given their outstanding off-road performance, dependability, and capabilities? In order to assist you in selecting the truck that is most appropriate for your needs, we’ll examine the Tundra and Tacoma in detail and compare them in a number of categories in this post.