2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty vs 2019 Toyota Tacoma
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2019 Toyota Tacoma is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty scores 7.7 out of 10. Given these identical ratings, the final recommendation depends on your specific needs. If you require a rugged, off-road capable midsize truck, the Toyota Tacoma is a solid choice. However, if you need a heavy-duty truck with exceptional towing and hauling capabilities, the Ford F-250 Super Duty is the better option.
Choose the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty if:
- You require a heavy-duty truck with exceptional towing and hauling capabilities.
- You need a spacious and functional cabin with ample storage.
- You want advanced technology and connectivity features, including FordPass Connect.
Choose the 2019 Toyota Tacoma if:
- You need a rugged, off-road capable midsize truck.
- You prefer a simpler, more utilitarian interior.
- You value Toyota's reputation for reliability and durability.
Overview | |
MSRP$25,850 | MSRP$34,035 |
Average price$30,570 | Average price$45,955 |
Listings1875 | Listings1045 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews7.7 out of 10 | Expert reviews7.7 out of 10 |
Pros
| Pros
|
2019 Toyota Tacoma Reviews SummaryUnapologetically unrefined, the 2019 Toyota Tacoma is a truck, pure and simple. It doesn't try to be anything else, and its raw honesty, at first unappealing, becomes its most endearing trait. Over the course of a week of testing, I went from eagerly anticipating to sadly dreading its departure. Clearly, there’s a good reason it's the best-selling midsize pickup in America. | |
2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty Reviews Summary“To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often.” Winston Churchill was likely not referring to the heavy-duty pickup truck market when he uttered this quote, but it resonates nonetheless. It seems like every year the Big Three American truck-makers are trying to one-up one another, whether it's towing and hauling, passenger space, or technology. It's unclear how many truck owners shop on superlatives alone. It’s also unclear how many shoppers need “the most” of one particular attribute. Sure, some will need the towing capability for certain jobs. But far more will buy these trucks and want a balance of attributes that is as well-rounded as their needs. While the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty gives up a bit of ride quality to achieve some best-in-class numbers, it’s a well-balanced truck. Read on to find out why. | |
No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine2.7L 159 hp I4 | Engine |
Drive Train4X2 | Drive Train |
Seating Capacity4 | Seating Capacity3 |
Horsepower159 hp @ 5200 rpm | Horsepower |
MPG City20 | MPG City |
MPG Highway23 | MPG Highway |
Engine | |
Engine Name2.7L 159 hp I4 | Engine Name6.2L 385 hp V8 Flex Fuel Vehicle |
Torque180 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm | Torque430 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm |
Horsepower159 hp @ 5200 rpm | Horsepower385 hp @ 5750 rpm |
Drivetrain4X2 | Drivetrain4X2 |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City20 | MPG City |
MPG Highway23 | MPG Highway |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity4 | Seating Capacity3 |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Bed Length73.7 in | Bed Length98.1 in |
Cargo Space | Cargo Space11.6 cu ft |
Curb Weight3980 lbs | Curb Weight5677 lbs |
Height70.6 in | Height78.9 in |
Length212.3 in | Length231.8 in |
Width74.4 in | Width105.9 in |
Wheelbase127.4 in | Wheelbase141.6 in |
Maximum Payload1620 lbs | Maximum Payload4260 lbs |
Number of doors4 | Number of doors2 |
Maximum Towing Capacity3500 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity22800 lbs |
Standard Towing Capacity | Standard Towing Capacity13000 lbs |
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for the 2019 Toyota Tacoma is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty scores 7.7 out of 10. Given these identical ratings, the final recommendation depends on your specific needs. If you require a rugged, off-road capable midsize truck, the Toyota Tacoma is a solid choice. However, if you need a heavy-duty truck with exceptional towing and hauling capabilities, the Ford F-250 Super Duty is the better option.
Choose the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty if:
Shop Now- You require a heavy-duty truck with exceptional towing and hauling capabilities.
- You need a spacious and functional cabin with ample storage.
- You want advanced technology and connectivity features, including FordPass Connect.
Choose the 2019 Toyota Tacoma if:
Shop Now- You need a rugged, off-road capable midsize truck.
- You prefer a simpler, more utilitarian interior.
- You value Toyota's reputation for reliability and durability.
Overview | ||
MSRP | $25,850 | $34,035 |
Average price | $30,570 | $45,955 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | 4.2 | 4.5 |
Expert reviews | 7.7 out of 10Read full review | 7.7 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
| Pros
|
Summary | Unapologetically unrefined, the 2019 Toyota Tacoma is a truck, pure and simple. It doesn't try to be anything else, and its raw honesty, at first unappealing, becomes its most endearing trait. Over the course of a week of testing, I went from eagerly anticipating to sadly dreading its departure. Clearly, there’s a good reason it's the best-selling midsize pickup in America. | “To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often.” Winston Churchill was likely not referring to the heavy-duty pickup truck market when he uttered this quote, but it resonates nonetheless. It seems like every year the Big Three American truck-makers are trying to one-up one another, whether it's towing and hauling, passenger space, or technology. It's unclear how many truck owners shop on superlatives alone. It’s also unclear how many shoppers need “the most” of one particular attribute. Sure, some will need the towing capability for certain jobs. But far more will buy these trucks and want a balance of attributes that is as well-rounded as their needs. While the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty gives up a bit of ride quality to achieve some best-in-class numbers, it’s a well-balanced truck. Read on to find out why. |
Video | No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 2.7L 159 hp I4 | |
Drive Train | 4X2 | |
Seating Capacity | 4 | 3 |
Horsepower | 159 hp @ 5200 rpm | |
MPG City | 20 | |
MPG Highway | 23 | |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 2.7L 159 hp I4 | 6.2L 385 hp V8 Flex Fuel Vehicle |
Torque | 180 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm | 430 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm |
Horsepower | 159 hp @ 5200 rpm | 385 hp @ 5750 rpm |
Drivetrain | 4X2 | 4X2 |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 20 | |
MPG Highway | 23 | |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 4 | 3 |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 4 | |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Bed Length | 73.7 in | 98.1 in |
Cargo Space | 11.6 cu ft | |
Curb Weight | 3980 lbs | 5677 lbs |
Height | 70.6 in | 78.9 in |
Length | 212.3 in | 231.8 in |
Width | 74.4 in | 105.9 in |
Wheelbase | 127.4 in | 141.6 in |
Maximum Payload | 1620 lbs | 4260 lbs |
Number of doors | 4 | 2 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 3500 lbs | 22800 lbs |
Standard Towing Capacity | 13000 lbs | |
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma featured distinct trims with unique grilles, wheels, hoods, and finishes, giving it a rugged and handsome appearance. The design was characterized by solid blocks of metal with carved character lines, flared fenders, and a protruding nose. Inside, the Tacoma prioritized function over form, with hard and durable plastics dominating the cabin. Stylish details like geometric upholstery patterns and evenly spaced dashboard air vents added some flair, but the overall design was simple and utilitarian. The Tacoma was available in extended-cab (Access Cab) and crew-cab (Double Cab) styles, with options for a short or long cargo bed, a 4-cylinder or V6 engine, and rear-wheel drive (RWD) or 4-wheel drive (4WD). The Limited trim, which came only in Double Cab, short bed, V6, 4WD specification, had a base price of $40,865, with a total cost of $42,184 after adding floor mats, cargo bed D-rings, and the destination charge.
The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty received some updates, with subtle visual differences that keen observers might notice. The front bumper had more black painted areas and less bling, while the massive grille swapped its large two-bar design for a sleeker look. The headlights were also somewhat sleeker, resulting in a truck that showed some styling restraint. The F-250 was available in XL, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited trim levels, each with distinct appearances. The XL had a black grille and bumpers with 17-inch steel wheels, while the XLT added brightwork and 18-inch alloy wheels. The King Ranch featured a unique two-tone paint job and chrome accents, while the Platinum added 20-inch alloy wheels and a unique front bumper. The Limited trim upped the luxury feel with a satin-chrome grille. The Tremor package, available on XLT-and-up trims, included off-road gear and styling touches.
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma was equipped with a direct-injected, Atkinson-cycle, 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 278 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 265 pound-feet of torque at 4,600 rpm. This engine was ready for towing with heavy-duty cooling, trailer wiring harness connections, Trailer Sway Control, and a receiver hitch, with a maximum tow rating of 6,800 pounds. A 6-speed automatic transmission with a Sport mode and a manual shift gate delivered power to the rear wheels, while the part-time, shift-on-the-fly 4WD system was easy to use. The TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro versions offered a 6-speed manual gearbox with a clutch-start cancel switch for off-roading. The Limited trim had 9.4 inches of ground clearance, making it capable for most off-road situations. On pavement, the Tacoma's acceleration was strong, but the transmission could be sluggish unless in Sport mode. The EPA estimated 20 mpg in combined driving, but the test truck averaged 20.1 mpg. The steering was slow to respond and vague on-center, and the ride quality was bouncy and reactive to road conditions. The brakes, with discs in front and drums in the back, shuddered under prolonged use.
The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty came standard with a 6.2-liter gasoline V8 engine producing 385 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque. Ford also offered a 6.7-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel V8 with 475 hp and 1,050 lb-ft of torque. A new 7.3-liter gas V8 option produced 430 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque. The gas engines were paired with a new 10-speed automatic transmission, while the diesel V8 had a six-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) was standard, with four-wheel drive (4WD) optional. When equipped with the 6.7-liter diesel, 3.55 axle ratio, and High Capacity Tow Package, the F-250 could tow up to 30,000 pounds. The 10-speed automatic transmission managed power well, providing surprising low-to-mid-range acceleration. The suspension was well sprung for heavy loads, resulting in a bumpy ride when not loaded. The FX4 off-road package added upgraded shocks, skid plates, and Trail Control. The Tremor off-road package included 33-inch tires, a 2-inch lift, rock crawl mode, and dark styling touches.
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma had a high ground clearance, making it easy for tall individuals to slide in, but challenging for shorter people, especially when the rocker panels were dirty. The front seats were wide and flat, with manual adjustments and lumbar support for the driver. Storage was abundant, with various compartments throughout the cabin. The backseat was cramped, with a high bottom cushion and limited space under the front seats. There were no air-conditioning vents or USB charging ports in the back. Exiting the driver's seat was difficult for those with long legs due to limited clearance under the steering wheel. The short 5-foot bed had a plastic liner, LED light, and a 120-volt/400-watt power outlet, with a maximum payload capacity of 1,540 pounds.
The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty was available in Regular Cab, extended SuperCab, and full four-door Crew Cab, with either 6-foot-9-inch or 8-foot bed sizes. The Super Duty featured a tailgate step that telescoped from the opened tailgate and included a handle. The cabin was spacious and functional, with deep cup holders and cubbies designed for large items. The center console was massive, capable of storing files, tools, or a laptop. The rear seats on the SuperCrew and Crew Cab folded up, revealing a load floor for large items, providing secure storage for equipment like a generator.
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma was not a technological showcase, lacking features like Apple CarPlay. The top infotainment system option had a 7-inch display with stubby volume and tuning knobs that were resistant to twisting and finished in slippery gloss black. The navigation system struggled to find specific addresses, prompting the use of a smartphone for directions. For 2020, Toyota planned to add Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility, with an 8-inch screen. The available 6-speaker JBL sound system delivered a decent audio experience.
The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty's base XL model came with four speakers, an AM/FM/MP3 radio unit, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB-C port. The XLT trim added five speakers for the regular cab and seven for the SuperCab and Crew Cab, along with SiriusXM satellite radio, an additional USB-C port, and the SYNC 3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. FordPass Connect was standard across the lineup, providing a WiFi hot spot for up to 10 devices and allowing remote vehicle control via a smartphone app. Many of these services were subscription-based.
The 2019 Toyota Tacoma came standard with Toyota Safety Sense, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, sway warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was available. The Tacoma received good crash test ratings from the IIHS, with some areas rated as Marginal or Acceptable. The NHTSA gave the Tacoma Double Cab a 4-star overall rating.
The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty included standard safety features like front- and side-impact airbags, trailer sway control, hill start assist, and AdvanceTrac traction control with roll stability control. Optional features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera system. The F-250 had not been tested by the NHTSA or IIHS.
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