2021 Jeep Gladiator vs 2020 Toyota Tacoma

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma presented a clean and straightforward design, though it lacked the aesthetic appeal of some of its competitors. Its back doors retained a tinny sound reminiscent of older Toyota trucks, and the hood scoop was purely decorative. Despite these drawbacks, the Tacoma's design exuded a rugged charm, especially in the TRD Pro trim, which featured redesigned LED headlights, a new grille, and a striking Army Green paint option. The interior mirrored the exterior's simplicity, with a straightforward dash and a modest touchscreen. While the fit and finish were commendable, the materials used were mostly basic, and the leather seats in the TRD Pro trim were not particularly impressive.

In contrast, the 2021 Jeep Gladiator, derived from the Wrangler, offered a unique look with its stretched frame and short cargo bed. Initially, its tall and narrow appearance might have seemed unusual, but it quickly grew on those who appreciated its off-road capabilities. The Gladiator introduced new editions like the Willys and 80th Anniversary, each adding distinct features and finishes. The interior, while not focused on comfort, provided adequate support and a sense of exclusivity with Jeep's signature design elements. Storage options were practical, and the cargo box was versatile, accommodating various needs with its adjustable tailgate and available accessories.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma's performance was anchored by its 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. This engine was standard on most trims, offering a balance of power and efficiency. The TRD Pro trim came with 4WD and an electronic low-range transfer case, enhancing its off-road prowess. However, the Tacoma's steering was slow, and the V6 engine struggled with its six-speed transmission, often requiring the "ECT PWR" button for better performance. Fuel economy was subpar, with the V6 achieving 18 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. Despite these drawbacks, the Tacoma excelled in towing, with a capacity of up to 6,800 pounds.

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator introduced a new 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V6 engine, delivering 260 horsepower and an impressive 442 lb-ft of torque. This engine option provided better fuel economy, averaging 22.6 mpg during testing. The Gladiator's towing capacity reached up to 7,650 pounds with the standard engine, though the diesel variant was slightly less capable due to cooling restrictions. Off-road, the diesel engine shone with its low-end torque, making challenging trails more manageable. On paved roads, the Gladiator's ride was stiff, and its steering was slow, but these characteristics were part of its rugged charm.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma's compact size made it ideal for urban environments, offering easy maneuverability and parking. Its bed featured a rail system with movable cleats, an optional power outlet, and LED lighting. The Double Cab's rear seats were suitable for short trips but lacked comfort for longer journeys. Storage options were limited, and the absence of a rear defroster was a minor inconvenience. Despite these limitations, the Tacoma's design was practical for both city and off-road use.

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator prioritized utility over comfort, with supportive seats but limited cabin space. Entry and exit were challenging, especially with side steps or rails. Storage solutions included netting, a small center console, and a removable storage bin under the rear seat. The Gladiator's cargo box was versatile, with multiple tie-down hooks and an adjustable tailgate. Payload ratings varied depending on the configuration, but the Gladiator remained a practical choice for those needing a capable off-road vehicle.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma featured a user-friendly infotainment system 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 also offered a 360-degree camera system and a suite of driver assists, including adaptive cruise control.

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator, while traditional in many aspects, offered modern technology through its infotainment system. The standard Uconnect 3 setup could be upgraded to the Uconnect 4 system with a 7-inch touchscreen, providing Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The top-tier Uconnect 4C system featured an 8.4-inch touchscreen, navigation, and an Alpine premium sound system. Jeep's forward-facing Trail Cam was a valuable addition for off-road adventures, enhancing the driver's awareness of the terrain.

The 2020 Toyota Tacoma came equipped with standard safety features like 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 high ratings in most crash tests.

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator offered basic safety features, with a reversing camera as standard. Depending on the trim, advanced driving assistance systems like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring were available. The Gladiator received a four-star frontal-impact rating from the NHTSA, with a three-star rollover resistance rating.