Choosing the right truck involves considering size, power, and capability. Toyota offers two excellent pickup options: the mid-size Tacoma and the full-size Tundra. Both trucks deliver renowned Toyota reliability and off-road prowess, but cater to different needs and lifestyles. This detailed comparison of the Toyota Tundra vs. Tacoma will help you determine which truck best suits your requirements.
Cab and Bed Configurations: Tacoma vs. Tundra
The Toyota Tacoma and Tundra offer various cab and bed configurations to accommodate different passenger and cargo needs.
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Toyota Tundra: Provides configurations for full-size truck versatility:
- Double Cab with 6.5-ft Standard Bed
- Double Cab with 8.1-ft Long Bed
- CrewMax with 5.5-ft Short Bed
- CrewMax with 6.5-ft Standard Bed
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Toyota Tacoma: Offers configurations optimized for a mid-size truck:
- Access Cab with 6-ft Bed
- Double Cab with 5-ft Bed
- Double Cab with 6-ft Bed
Alt text: Toyota Tundra Double Cab model showcasing its standard 6.5-foot bed, highlighting the spaciousness for cargo.
Engine and Performance Comparison: Toyota Tacoma vs. Toyota Tundra
Both the Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Tundra are engineered for robust performance, whether you’re towing equipment or navigating challenging terrains. However, their engine options and performance metrics differ significantly, reflecting their size and intended use.
Engine Options
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Toyota Tacoma Engines:
- Standard 2.7L 4-cylinder: Produces 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque.
- Available 3.5L V6: Delivers 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, featuring Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Wider Intake and Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Exhaust for enhanced efficiency and power.
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Toyota Tundra Engines:
- i-FORCE 3.4L Twin-Turbo V6: Base engine producing 358 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque.
- i-FORCE 3.4L Twin-Turbo V6 (Upgraded): Offers 389 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque for increased capability.
- i-FORCE MAX 3.4L Twin-Turbo V6 Hybrid: Top-tier engine delivering 437 horsepower and a substantial 583 lb-ft of torque, combining power with hybrid efficiency.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The Toyota Tundra utilizes a 10-speed Electronically Controlled automatic Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) for smooth and efficient power delivery. The Tacoma offers a choice between a 6-Speed automatic and a 6-Speed manual transmission, catering to different driving preferences. Both models are available in 4×2 and 4×4 configurations, providing options for various driving conditions and needs.
Performance Specifications
Here’s a quick comparison of key performance specs for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma and 2024 Toyota Tundra:
2023 Toyota Tacoma:
- Max Horsepower: 278 hp
- Max Torque: 265 lb-ft
- Max Towing Capacity: 6,800 lbs
- Max Payload: 1,155 lbs
2024 Toyota Tundra:
- Max Horsepower: 437 hp
- Max Torque: 583 lb-ft
- Max Towing Capacity: 12,000 lbs
- Max Payload: 1,940 lbs
Alt text: Close-up of the Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road engine compartment, emphasizing the robust V6 engine and its off-road capabilities.
Trim Levels: Exploring Tacoma and Tundra Options
Both the Toyota Tacoma and Tundra offer a diverse range of trim levels, ensuring there’s a model to match various budgets and preferences. Each lineup includes 7 distinct trims, from base models to high-end luxury and off-road focused versions.
Toyota Tacoma Trims:
- SR
- SR5
- Trail Special Edition
- TRD Sport
- TRD Off-Road
- Limited
- TRD Pro
Toyota Tundra Trims:
- SR
- SR5
- Limited
- Platinum
- 1794 Edition
- TRD Pro
- Capstone
Alt text: Interior view of the Toyota Tundra 1794 Edition, highlighting its luxurious leather seats and premium cabin features.
Features and Technology: Inside the Tacoma and Tundra
When comparing the Toyota Tundra vs. Tacoma in terms of features, you’ll find similarities in core technology but differences in screen sizes and advanced safety systems. Both trucks come standard with Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay® integration, along with a backup camera. Available features like heated front seats and Qi-compatible wireless smartphone charging enhance comfort and convenience in both models.
However, the Tundra steps up with a standard 8-inch touchscreen compared to the Tacoma’s standard 7-inch screen. Furthermore, the Tundra offers an optional 14-inch touchscreen for a more immersive infotainment experience, while the Tacoma has an available 8-inch upgrade.
In terms of safety, both trucks are equipped with Toyota Safety Sense™ systems. The Tacoma features Toyota Safety Sense™ P (TSS-P), including Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beams, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. The Tundra boasts Toyota Safety Sense™ 2.5 (TSS 2.5), which upgrades to Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, and Road Sign Assist, in addition to the features found in TSS-P.
Choosing Between the Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Tundra
Deciding between the Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Tundra depends on your specific needs and priorities. The Toyota Tacoma, a mid-size truck, excels in maneuverability and off-road capability, making it ideal for navigating tight trails and urban environments. It’s also generally more fuel-efficient and easier to park.
The Toyota Tundra, as a full-size truck, offers significantly more power, towing capacity, and interior space. It’s better suited for heavy-duty tasks, larger families, and those who prioritize maximum capability and comfort.
To experience these Toyota trucks firsthand, visit DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville. Test drive both models to determine which Toyota pickup aligns perfectly with your lifestyle and requirements. Explore our current inventory of new Toyota Tacoma and Toyota Tundra models in Rockville, MD!
Explore more about the capabilities of each truck with our guides on Tundra towing capacity and Tacoma towing capacity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Tundra or Tacoma?
Neither truck is universally “better”—it depends on your needs. The Tacoma is excellent as a mid-size, off-road capable, and easy-to-handle truck. The Tundra is superior for those needing full-size capability, higher towing capacity, and more power for heavy loads.
How much bigger is the Tundra than the Tacoma?
The Tundra is significantly larger than the Tacoma, although the exact difference varies by configuration. For example, the longest Tundra configuration with an 8.1-ft bed reaches 252.5 inches in overall length, while the longest Tacoma with a 6-ft bed measures up to 225.5 inches.
Does the Toyota Tacoma have the same engine as the Tundra?
No, the Toyota Tacoma and Tundra do not share the same engines. The Tacoma offers a 2.7L 4-cylinder and a 3.5L V6, while the Tundra features more powerful i-FORCE 3.4L Twin-Turbo V6 options, including a hybrid variant, delivering considerably more horsepower and torque.
More Toyota Resources
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| Toyota Tacoma Colors | Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity | Toyota Tundra Interior |
