2020 Toyota Tacoma vs 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma was a pickup that embraced simplicity and functionality over flashy aesthetics. While it didn't boast the striking looks of some of its competitors, it maintained a clean and straightforward design. The Tacoma's body, available in either extended Access or four-door Double Cab form, was rounded yet retained enough upright lines to assert its rugged nature. The TRD Pro model, in particular, stood out with its redesigned LED headlights, Army Green paint option, and a bold grille that replaced the circular badge with "TOYOTA" in all caps. The interior mirrored the exterior's straightforwardness, featuring a modestly sized touchscreen and a mix of bargain plastics and rubbers. Despite its utilitarian approach, the Tacoma's design had a psychological effect, making drivers feel ready for adventure.

In contrast, the 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty took the blocky and muscular aesthetics of the F-150 to a more robust level. Its larger size and heavy-duty styling were not just for show, as the Super Duty trucks were built to handle tough terrains and demanding job sites. The cabin varied from utilitarian to luxurious, depending on the trim level, with higher trims offering leather and upscale finishes. The Super Duty's imposing presence was complemented by its practical features, such as a clever tailgate design with optional steps and a handle for easy bed access. However, its size made it less suited for city driving, with challenges in parking and maneuverability.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma offered a choice between a lackluster 2.7-liter 4-cylinder engine and a more robust 3.5-liter V6. The V6, producing 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, was the preferred option, especially for those seeking better performance. The Tacoma's 6-speed automatic transmission was standard, with a 6-speed manual available for TRD Off-Road and Pro models. The TRD Pro came with 4-wheel drive and an electronic low-range transfer case, enhancing its off-road capabilities. Despite its off-road prowess, the Tacoma's on-road performance was less impressive, with slow steering and a droning V6 engine. Fuel economy was also a downside, with the V6 achieving 18 mpg city, 22 highway, and 20 combined.

The 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty offered three powerful engine options: a 6.2-liter V8 with 385 horsepower, a 7.3-liter V8 with 430 horsepower, and a 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel engine with 475 horsepower and a staggering 1,050 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Super Duty's towing and payload capacities were impressive, with the ability to tow over 36,000 pounds with a gooseneck setup. While the EPA did not provide fuel economy ratings for heavy-duty trucks, it was expected that fuel efficiency would decrease significantly during towing or hauling heavy loads.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma's smaller size compared to full-size trucks made it a practical choice for city driving. It was easier to park, fit in standard garages, and navigate wooded trails. The bed, available in 5- or 6-foot lengths, featured a rail system with movable cleats for securing cargo. However, the Double Cab's rear seats were cramped for long trips, and the lack of a rear defroster was a drawback. Despite these limitations, the Tacoma's compact form made it a versatile option for urban and off-road adventures.

The 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty, designed for hardcore utility, offered a spacious interior with a 40/20/40 folding bench setup in the front and generous rear seats in Crew Cab and Super Cab models. However, its large size made it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces, and the tall ride height complicated entry and exit. The Super Duty's clever tailgate design, with optional steps and a handle, facilitated bed access, though it wasn't as elaborate as some competitors' offerings. Despite its utility-focused design, the Super Duty provided ample creature comforts for those who needed them.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma featured a simple and intuitive interior with a standard 7-inch touchscreen, while an 8-inch version with navigation was available. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa were standard, along with a new USB-C port. Optional features included wireless phone charging and onboard Wi-Fi. The Tacoma's 360-degree cameras provided ample views, though video quality was lacking. A suite of driver assists, including adaptive cruise control, was standard, making the Tacoma's infotainment system functional and user-friendly.

The 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty boasted Ford's Sync 3 infotainment system, known for its intuitive and easy-to-use interface. The base XL trim featured a non-touch display, while higher trims offered a larger touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additional tech options included a WiFi hotspot, upgraded audio systems, and adjustable upfitter switches. Diesel-equipped models could be fitted with a rapid heating unit to quickly warm the cabin, enhancing comfort in cold conditions.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma came with standard safety features such as forward-emergency braking with pedestrian detection and lane-departure warning. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors. The Tacoma received a 4-star rating from the NHTSA and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, with top ratings in most crash tests.

The 2021 Ford F-250 Super Duty offered a range of safety features, though many were available as optional upgrades. These included blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. A trailer tow package with special camera views and Pro Trailer Backup Assist was also available. However, as a commercial vehicle, the Super Duty was not crash tested by the NHTSA or IIHS.