2023 Toyota Tacoma vs 2023 Ford F-150

When the 2023 Ford F-150 emerged, shoppers found a full-size, light-duty pickup offering numerous configurations to suit virtually any need or desire. The lineup encompassed regular, extended (Super Cab), and crew cab (SuperCrew) styles, paired with varying bed lengths. The eight core trims ranged from functional to downright luxurious, and designers did well to balance familiar styling with modern needs, as the F-150 maintained the classic Ford truck aesthetics without venturing into polarizing design territories. Despite a utilitarian approach inside, where function overpowered form, comfort and durability were not compromised, particularly in the XLT trim with its array of optional enhancements.

Conversely, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma carved out its presence effectively in the midsize segment. Despite its smaller size compared to the F-150, the Tacoma held its own with a rugged and assertive appearance that didn’t sacrifice functionality for style. Offered in numerous trims and configurations, the Tacoma made sure to maintain an appealing stance whether parked or on the move. The TRD Pro, tested in eye-catching Solar Octane, doubled down on aesthetics with off-road readiness that didn’t just perform but also looked the part, making a strong statement wherever it ventured.

The 2023 Ford F-150's performance was robust, especially with the twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 under the hood, outputting 400 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. Matched with a seamless 10-speed automatic transmission, the F-150 handled heavy payloads and towing tasks (up to 14,000 pounds) with ease, though its unloaded ride quality sometimes left room for improvement compared to its rivals. Despite missing the throaty appeal of a traditional V8, its powertrain was impressively capable and relatively efficient, though real-world fuel economy occasionally fell short of EPA estimates.

The Toyota Tacoma, especially in its TRD Pro guise, offered a different caliber of performance geared more towards off-road and rugged terrains. The standard 2.7-liter engine was underwhelming, making a step up to the 278-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 a necessity for most. Handling and noise levels were less refined compared to the F-150, particularly at highway speeds. Notably, despite its capable suspension, the Tacoma's steering felt imprecise, and fuel economy was mediocre at best when considering the output and overall vehicle dynamics.

The interior of the 2023 Ford F-150 was versatile and spacious. The XLT Super Crew setup allowed ample room for both passengers and cargo, complemented by smart storage solutions that ranged from large bins under the armrests to dual glove compartments. Transitioning from passenger comfort to cargo utility was seamless, with foldable seats and a bed equipped with a durable liner and a 2.0-kW power onboard system, ready for a variety of real-world tasks.

In contrast, the Toyota Tacoma offered less interior space, particularly in the access cab configuration, which was tight and less accommodating for passengers. While the double cab provided better access and comfort, it still lagged behind the F-150 in terms of legroom and overall ease of entry for passengers. Cargo capabilities were decent with options for different bed lengths, yet the Tacoma's utility felt more constrained when matched against the F-150’s versatility.

Ford equipped the 2023 F-150 with its Sync 4 system, featuring a 12-inch touchscreen that supported over-the-air updates, apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Though some aspects of the interface required refinement for quicker response and better visibility, the overall system functionality was advanced, especially considering additional features like a connected navigation system and an optional premium audio setup by Bang & Olufsen.

The Tacoma’s technology suite, while competent, didn’t break new ground. The infotainment system, featuring up to an 8-inch touchscreen based on trim, supported essentials like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto but felt a step behind in both graphical interface and responsiveness. The addition of a premium JBL audio system in higher trims was a welcome, though not revolutionary, touch.

Ford’s F-150 showcased a robust safety suite under the Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist 2.0 banner, offering a comprehensive mix of driving aids from lane-keeping assist to a surround-view camera system, bolstered by high safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA. The technology proved capable in diverse driving scenarios, enhancing both convenience and security.

The Toyota Tacoma, equipped with Toyota Safety Sense, provided a solid base of safety features, including automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. However, the absence of more advanced aids present in newer competitors, coupled with less impressive crash-test results, positioned it behind the Ford in terms of cutting-edge safety offerings.