2021 Toyota Tacoma vs 2022 Toyota Tacoma

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma retained the rugged, quintessential truck look that distinguished it starkly from the sleeker designs of its competitors. The characteristic boxy fender flares, tall hood, and shield-like grille were designed with bold, straight lines that communicated strength and utility. The interior reflected a similar ruggedness, with durable plastic components that might feel justified more at the base model's price point than at the TRD Pro's higher price. The addition of unique styling elements in the Trail Edition, Nightshade Edition, and TRD Pro in 2021 gave buyers the opportunity to own a Tacoma that stood out more distinctly.

In contrast, the 2022 Tacoma, while maintaining the aggressive exterior, began to show its age, especially in the cabin that mixed somewhat dated elements with newer technologies like push-button start. Though it offered a modern enough look that it was competitively aesthetic, the interior featured an abundance of hard plastics. The different trims available, from SR to TRD Pro, added incremental exterior and interior upgrades, enhancing both style and functionality.

Performance-wise, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma offered a choice between a base 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine and a more robust 3.5-liter V6. The latter was preferable not only for its significantly higher power output — 278 horsepower compared to the four-cylinder’s 159 horsepower — but also for its improved towing and payload capacities. The TRD Pro's off-road capabilities were highlighted by advanced features such as a locking rear differential and multi-terrain suspension systems, though on-road performance lagged with poorer ride quality and slow acceleration.

The 2022 model largely mirrored these characteristics, with identical engine choices and similar tow and payload ratings. In-road drivability continued to be less than stellar due to transmission and gearing issues, though the model excelled off-road, particularly with the TRD Pro’s enhanced suspension and terrain technology.

Interior space allocation in the 2021 Tacoma was less than impressive, particularly in the Double Cab setup, which lagged behind competitors in rear legroom and headroom, creating a cramped feel. In terms of functionality, however, it offered useful storage solutions and a robust bed capable of heavy-duty use.

The 2022 Tacoma continued with the same cabin space issues, particularly with the Double Cab. Both models provided adequate in-bed utility, although there were no notable improvements in the newer model year to the bed’s design or functionality outside of supplemental lighting and power outlets added in certain trims.

The technology in the 2021 Tacoma was solid with standard features including a responsive 8-inch touchscreen on most models, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The TRD Pro model featured a Multi-Terrain Monitor that was a standout for off-road driving.

For 2022, technology updates were minimal, retaining the same size touchscreens and connectivity features. The user interface of the infotainment system remained familiar and user-friendly, though it did not push any boundaries in terms of innovative tech additions.

Safety ratings for the 2021 Tacoma were strong, with good scores from the IIHS and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It included a comprehensive suite of driver-assist technologies as standard.

The 2022 model, essentially unchanged in safety features, maintained these standards and prospective buyers could expect similar reassurances from its robust safety suite and adequate institutional ratings.