2022 Toyota Tundra vs 2023 Toyota Tacoma

The 2022 Toyota Tundra emerged as a formidable contender in the full-size half-ton pickup truck category, boasting rear-wheel drive (RWD) or optional four-wheel drive (4WD). Available in Double Cab or CrewMax configurations across six trims, it has built a reputation for durability and value, appealing to a devoted ownership base. This model year introduces comprehensive updates promising to attract a new buyer demographic. In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma solidified its legendary status as a go-to choice in the pickup truck market, praised for its unparalleled reliability and optimal size for various needs. Sporting the TRD Pro trim, it offers exceptional off-road capabilities. However, emerging competitors in the compact and midsize truck arena challenge its dominance, signaling a pivotal moment for Tacoma’s continued evolution.

Performance ratings for both trucks are tied at 8 out of 10 by CarGurus experts. The 2022 Tundra introduces two new engines: a base twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 and a hybrid variant, the i-Force Max, offering up to 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain is complemented by a new chassis and suspension for improved handling and off-road capabilities. The 2023 Tacoma sticks with its reliable 2.7-liter four-cylinder and optional 3.5-liter V6 engines, with the latter providing 278 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. While not the quickest, the V6-equipped Tacoma, especially in TRD Pro trim, offers enjoyable city driving and competent off-road performance, albeit with fuel efficiency that may not meet all expectations.

The 2022 Toyota Tundra impresses with a rating of 9 out of 10, showcasing its versatility through the Double Cab and CrewMax configurations. Both options provide ample space, with the CrewMax offering SUV-like 41.6 inches of rear seat legroom. Tundra's adaptability extends to its cargo capabilities, featuring an aluminum-reinforced composite bed available in either a 6.5-foot or 8.1-foot option for the Double Cab and a 5.5-foot or 6.5-foot bed for the CrewMax. This innovative bed design not only reduces weight but also maintains a payload capacity of up to 1,980 pounds, depending on the configuration, translating to approximately 57 cubic feet of space considering the depth and width of the bed. The Tundra's towing prowess is equally notable, with a maximum capacity reaching 12,000 pounds, equipped with standard features like trailer sway control and TOW/HAUL mode to enhance its towing stability and safety. The 2023 Toyota Tacoma, rated at 7 out of 10, offers its own set of practical features and configurations tailored to a variety of user needs. With the choice between the access cab and the double cab, the Tacoma caters to those requiring less seating space or more cargo room. The access cab comes with a six-foot-one-inch bed, while the double cab offers a choice between a long and a shorter five-foot bed, translating to a payload capacity that varies but can reach up to 1,620 pounds for certain configurations, or approximately 49 cubic feet of cargo space in the longer bed version. Although it doesn't match the Tundra's towing and payload capacities, the Tacoma's design optimizes its size for maneuverability and efficiency without sacrificing functionality, making it a suitable choice for those who prioritize a compact and reliable truck for both daily tasks and adventurous endeavors.

In technology, the 2022 Tundra outshines the Tacoma, earning an 8 out of 10 for its advanced infotainment system and connectivity features, compared to the Tacoma's 6 out of 10. The Tundra's integration of a large touchscreen display and digital instrument panel represents a significant leap over the previous generation and stands out against the Tacoma's more dated technology offerings.

Safety evaluations reveal a slight edge for the Tundra at 8 out of 10, equipped with the latest Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 suite, while the Tacoma scores 7 out of 10, still offering a comprehensive range of safety features despite lacking some of the more advanced autonomous driving aids available in other vehicles.

Both vehicles are rated 7 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The 2022 Tundra sees a price increase over its predecessor, justified by its comprehensive updates and luxury options. The Tacoma remains competitive in pricing, especially in the midsize pickup segment, but faces stiff competition from newer models offering similar capabilities at lower prices.