2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty vs 2021 Toyota Tacoma
Overview | |
MSRP$34,035 | MSRP$26,400 |
Listings559 | Listings471 |
Ratings & Reviews | |
User Reviews | User Reviews |
Expert reviews7.7 out of 10 | Expert reviews6.5 out of 10 |
Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
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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. | |
2021 Toyota Tacoma Reviews SummaryLast redesigned for the 2016 model year, The Tacoma once dominated midsize-truck sales. In recent years, though, it’s faced stronger competition from the Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon twins, the Ford Ranger, and the Jeep Gladiator. A redesigned Nissan Frontier and heavily-updated Honda Ridgeline are also on the way. Meanwhile, the Tacoma enters the 2021 model year largely unchanged. The only updates are two new special editions—the Nightshade Edition and Trail Special Edition—and standard dual-zone automatic climate control on all V6 models. Pickup truck buyers tend to want choices, and Toyota delivers. The Tacoma is available with four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines, Access Cab and four-door Double Cab body styles, rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD), and six trim levels— SR, SR5, TRD Off Road, TRD Sport, Limited, and TRD Pro—plus the two special editions. Our test vehicle was a Tacoma TRD Pro Double Cab. The TRD Pro is the most off-road focused of the Tacoma models, so naturally, it gets standard 4WD drive. While Toyota does offer a more comfort-oriented Tacoma Limited model, the TRD Pro is also positioned at the top of the lineup. | |
No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | |
Engine | Engine2.7L 159 hp I4 |
Drive Train | Drive Train4X2 |
Seating Capacity3 | Seating Capacity4 |
Horsepower | Horsepower159 hp @ 5200 rpm |
MPG City | MPG City20 |
MPG Highway | MPG Highway23 |
Engine | |
Engine Name6.2L 385 hp V8 Flex Fuel Vehicle | Engine Name2.7L 159 hp I4 |
Torque430 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm | Torque180 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm |
Horsepower385 hp @ 5750 rpm | Horsepower159 hp @ 5200 rpm |
Drivetrain4X2 | Drivetrain4X2 |
Fuel Economy | |
MPG City | MPG City20 |
MPG Highway | MPG Highway23 |
Interior | |
Seating Capacity3 | Seating Capacity4 |
Safety | |
Front Crash Overall4 | Front Crash Overall4 |
Side Crash Overall5 | Side Crash Overall5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | |
Bed Length98.1 in | Bed Length73.7 in |
Cargo Space11.6 cu ft | Cargo Space |
Curb Weight5677 lbs | Curb Weight3915 lbs |
Height78.9 in | Height70.6 in |
Length231.8 in | Length212.3 in |
Width105.9 in | Width74.4 in |
Wheelbase141.6 in | Wheelbase127.4 in |
Maximum Payload4260 lbs | Maximum Payload1685 lbs |
Number of doors2 | Number of doors4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity22800 lbs | Maximum Towing Capacity3500 lbs |
Standard Towing Capacity13000 lbs | Standard Towing Capacity |
Overview | ||
MSRP | $34,035 | $26,400 |
Listings | ||
Ratings & Reviews | ||
User reviews | ||
Expert reviews | 7.7 out of 10Read full review | 6.5 out of 10Read full review |
Pros & cons | Pros
Cons
| Pros
Cons
|
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. | Last redesigned for the 2016 model year, The Tacoma once dominated midsize-truck sales. In recent years, though, it’s faced stronger competition from the Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon twins, the Ford Ranger, and the Jeep Gladiator. A redesigned Nissan Frontier and heavily-updated Honda Ridgeline are also on the way. Meanwhile, the Tacoma enters the 2021 model year largely unchanged. The only updates are two new special editions—the Nightshade Edition and Trail Special Edition—and standard dual-zone automatic climate control on all V6 models. Pickup truck buyers tend to want choices, and Toyota delivers. The Tacoma is available with four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines, Access Cab and four-door Double Cab body styles, rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD), and six trim levels— SR, SR5, TRD Off Road, TRD Sport, Limited, and TRD Pro—plus the two special editions. Our test vehicle was a Tacoma TRD Pro Double Cab. The TRD Pro is the most off-road focused of the Tacoma models, so naturally, it gets standard 4WD drive. While Toyota does offer a more comfort-oriented Tacoma Limited model, the TRD Pro is also positioned at the top of the lineup. |
Video | No video found | |
Popular Features & Specs | ||
Engine | 2.7L 159 hp I4 | |
Drive Train | 4X2 | |
Seating Capacity | 3 | 4 |
Horsepower | 159 hp @ 5200 rpm | |
MPG City | 20 | |
MPG Highway | 23 | |
Engine | ||
Engine Name | 6.2L 385 hp V8 Flex Fuel Vehicle | 2.7L 159 hp I4 |
Torque | 430 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm | 180 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm |
Horsepower | 385 hp @ 5750 rpm | 159 hp @ 5200 rpm |
Drivetrain | 4X2 | 4X2 |
Fuel Economy | ||
MPG City | 20 | |
MPG Highway | 23 | |
Interior | ||
Seating Capacity | 3 | 4 |
Safety | ||
Front Crash Overall | 4 | 4 |
Side Crash Overall | 5 | 5 |
Dimensions & Capacity | ||
Bed Length | 98.1 in | 73.7 in |
Cargo Space | 11.6 cu ft | |
Curb Weight | 5677 lbs | 3915 lbs |
Height | 78.9 in | 70.6 in |
Length | 231.8 in | 212.3 in |
Width | 105.9 in | 74.4 in |
Wheelbase | 141.6 in | 127.4 in |
Maximum Payload | 4260 lbs | 1685 lbs |
Number of doors | 2 | 4 |
Maximum Towing Capacity | 22800 lbs | 3500 lbs |
Standard Towing Capacity | 13000 lbs | |
According to CarGurus experts, the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty is rated 6 out of 10, while the 2021 Toyota Tacoma scores 8 out of 10.
The 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty has received subtle updates, offering a restrained yet stylish appearance. It is available in various trim levels, each with distinct visual features. The cabin, while functional, may feel utilitarian with its abundance of hard plastics.
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma embodies the classic truck look with boxy fender flares and a shield-like grille. It offers unique styling features for different models, and its body-on-frame construction enhances its towing and off-road capabilities.
According to CarGurus experts, the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty is rated 9 out of 10, while the 2021 Toyota Tacoma scores 7 out of 10.
The F-250 Super Duty offers powerful engine options, including a 6.2-liter gasoline V8, a 7.3-liter gas V8, and a 6.7-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel V8. It excels in towing and hauling but may have a bumpy ride when not loaded.
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma offers a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine and an optional 3.5-liter V6, providing respectable performance for daily driving and off-road adventures.
According to CarGurus experts, the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty is rated 9 out of 10, while the 2021 Toyota Tacoma scores 6 out of 10.
The F-250 offers a spacious and functional cabin with ample storage options, making it practical for work and everyday use.
The Tacoma's interior space, especially in the Double Cab, may feel limited, but it offers practical storage solutions and a durable bed with useful features.
According to CarGurus experts, the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty is rated 8 out of 10, while the 2021 Toyota Tacoma scores 6 out of 10.
The F-250 comes equipped with FordPass Connect, SYNC 3 infotainment system, and various connectivity options, providing convenience and connectivity on the go.
The Tacoma features a functional infotainment system with standard connectivity options, but it may lack advanced features compared to its competitors.
According to CarGurus experts, the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty is rated 7 out of 10, while the 2021 Toyota Tacoma scores 7 out of 10.
The F-250 offers a range of standard and optional safety features, but it has not been fully tested by safety organizations.
The Tacoma comes with standard driver-assist features and has received good safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2021 Toyota Tacoma scores 6.5 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty emerges as the more highly rated option, offering a compelling combination of performance, form, function, and technology. If you prioritize towing and hauling capabilities, a spacious cabin, and a wide range of configurations, the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty is the recommended choice. However, the two trucks are very different in capability, and your choice will be dictated by your needs and lifestyle.
Choose the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty if:
- You need a powerful and versatile truck for towing and hauling.
- You prioritize a spacious and functional cabin with ample storage.
- You are looking for a wide range of trim levels and configurations to suit your specific needs.
Choose the 2021 Toyota Tacoma if:
- You seek a reliable and capable midsize truck for off-road adventures.
- You value a durable bed with practical storage solutions.
- You prefer a truck with standard driver-assist features and good safety ratings.
CarGurus highlights
According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty is 7.7 out of 10, while the 2021 Toyota Tacoma scores 6.5 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty emerges as the more highly rated option, offering a compelling combination of performance, form, function, and technology. If you prioritize towing and hauling capabilities, a spacious cabin, and a wide range of configurations, the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty is the recommended choice. However, the two trucks are very different in capability, and your choice will be dictated by your needs and lifestyle.
Choose the 2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty if:
Shop Now- You need a powerful and versatile truck for towing and hauling.
- You prioritize a spacious and functional cabin with ample storage.
- You are looking for a wide range of trim levels and configurations to suit your specific needs.
Choose the 2021 Toyota Tacoma if:
Shop Now- You seek a reliable and capable midsize truck for off-road adventures.
- You value a durable bed with practical storage solutions.
- You prefer a truck with standard driver-assist features and good safety ratings.
By: CarGurus + AI
At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.
