If you’re looking for a capable truck, you don’t have to just go with a Chevy or Ford. You could choose a Toyota truck instead. With a look at the specs for both the Tacoma and Tundra, you’re sure to see why these trucks have such a loyal following.
So, what Toyota truck specs should you pay the closest attention to?
The most important ones include:
- Trim Levels: Dozens across the two current model lines
- Powerplants: Multiple Inline-4, V6, and V8 engine options
- Towing Power: Up to 10,000-pound towing capacity
To tell if Toyota trucks are the right choice, you have to look beyond these three specs. As you dig deep into their builds and capabilities, it’ll soon become clear which one to pick. So, take a peek at this article to learn what you need to know.
A Long Line of Capable Toyota Trucks
Although Toyota is best known by many for its reliable cars, their pickup trucks have always had a strong following. Their first one arrived on US shores in 1972 as the Toyota Hilux, a small truck with a big personality.
Through the generations, this truck shed its Hilux moniker in the US in favor of being simply called a pickup. They continued making this truck until the mid-1990s when they introduced their all-new compact pickup, the 1995 Toyota Tacoma.
The Tacoma definitely made its predecessor proud with its excellent handling, safety, and comfort features. This compact truck has remained a staple in the Toyota truck lineup ever since.
Now in its third generation, it’s bigger, more powerful, and sturdier than ever and quite dependable, too. But it’s not the only option on the market today.
To perfectly complement the Tacoma, Toyota developed a full-size version and dubbed it the Tundra. The 2000 Toyota Tundra instantly impressed the masses with its 245 horsepower V8, multiple bed and cab configurations, and ability to tow up to 7,100 pounds.
As they moved through the generations, the designers beefed up the power output to a 381-horsepower max, enabling it to tow 10,000 pounds with ease.
Performance Stays at the Center of Their Builds
Through the years, one thing has stayed the same: Toyota trucks are meant to excel both on and off the road. Early trucks were modified by enthusiasts to outperform the rest of the 4×4 builds, and the manufacturer quickly caught on. Today, their trucks come from the factory with everything you need to make the most of all your adventures.
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma, for example, will arrive dressed in eight distinctive trim levels, ranging from the base SR to the fully-equipped TRD Pro. Although it’s the most expensive option, the TRD Pro promises to handle whatever you throw at it.
This is especially true when fitted with the 278 horsepower V6 and six-speed manual transmission.
The inline-four is much tamer with only 159 horsepower. But, since it gets an EPA-estimated 20 combined miles per gallon, it also promises to keep more money in your pocket.
Since the Tacoma can only tow up to 6,800 pounds, it’s the Tundra you want to hook up your trailer. With its 381 horsepower V8 on its side, the 2021 Toyota Tundra can tow an impressive 10,200 pounds with ease.
Like its compact brother, this full-size pickup comes in eight trim levels with the TRD Pro hailed as the most capable of the bunch. Across all trim levels, rear-wheel drive comes standard, but you can upgrade to four-wheel drive if you wish.
Pros and Cons of Toyota Trucks
Although Toyota trucks have their strong points, they do not always live up to everyone’s expectations. Many other people find they’re the best trucks for their needs. So, how can you figure out which side you are on? With a look at their pros and cons, of course.
Pro:
- Multiple capable powerplants
- Many configuration options available
- Great on- and off-road performance
- Excellent reliability mile after mile
- Truly rugged appearance
Con:
- Average crash test ratings
- Utilitarian cabin design
- Mid-range fuel efficiency
- Finicky automatic transmission
- Mediocre materials used in its build
