2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty vs 2024 Toyota Tundra

The 2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty underwent a visual evolution rather than a complete redesign, maintaining its familiar robust appearance. It offered a range of trims from the basic XL to the luxurious Limited, each with varying levels of comfort and technology. The King Ranch trim, which we tested, stood out with its two-tone paint job, 20-inch alloy wheels, and a more subdued use of chrome. Inside, it featured two-tone brown leather, a premium Bang & Olufsen stereo system, and practical features like a spray-in bed liner and Pro Power Onboard. The F-250's design was both functional and stylish, catering to those who appreciate a blend of utility and luxury.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota Tundra presented a bold design with a massive grille aimed at improving powertrain cooling. While some found the grille's size off-putting, the truck's overall industrial design conveyed durability. The TRD Pro trim, which we tested, featured camo-pattern detailing and a new Terra color. However, the interior's plastic components detracted from the sense of quality. Despite this, the Tundra's design was rugged and ready for adventure, appealing to those who prioritize off-road capability and a tough exterior.

The 2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty offered a range of powerful engine options, starting with a 6.8-liter gas V8 producing 400 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, a 7.3-liter V8 delivered 430 horsepower and 485 lb-ft of torque. The diesel enthusiasts could opt for the 6.7-liter PowerStroke turbodiesel V8, which produced 475 horsepower and an astounding 1,050 lb-ft of torque. Our test model featured a high-output version of this engine, boasting 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque. The 10-speed automatic transmission ensured smooth power delivery, making the Super Duty lively despite its size. With a towing capacity of up to 22,000 pounds, the F-250 was a towing powerhouse, aided by features like Pro Trailer Hitch Assist and onboard scales.

The 2024 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6 engine, generating 358 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. The TRD Pro's hybrid version, known as the i-Force Max, increased output to 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. The Tundra's 10-speed automatic transmission and part-time 4WD system, along with off-road features like a locking rear differential and Multi-Terrain Select modes, made it a capable off-roader. With a towing capacity of 11,175 pounds and a 1,600-pound payload, the Tundra was versatile, though its fuel efficiency fell short of expectations, averaging 17.1 mpg.

The 2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty offered various cab and bed configurations, including regular, SuperCab, and Super Crew cabs, with bed lengths of 6.75 or 8 feet. The SuperCab's rear-hinged clamshell doors provided wide access, though they required the front doors to be open. The F-250's interior was spacious, with numerous storage options, including a massive center storage bin, dual glove boxes, and ample door space. The Super Crew model's rear seats folded up, creating a large cargo area. Practical features like bed steps and grip handles made accessing the truck's bed easier.

The 2024 Toyota Tundra's interior was spacious, but the i-Force Max's battery eliminated rear underseat storage and a flat rear cab floor, limiting storage options. The Tundra's cargo bed lacked some of the helpful features found in competitors, such as bumper corner steps and a more versatile tailgate. Despite these limitations, the Tundra offered decent storage space and comfortable seating. However, the driver's seat caused some discomfort during long drives, and getting in and out of the TRD Pro was challenging for shorter individuals.

The 2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, with a larger 12-inch screen available. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with logical controls and redundant dials for radio and climate settings. Multiple USB ports, a wall-style power outlet, and wireless device charging ensured connectivity on the go. The navigation system included Trailer Navigation, optimizing routes for towing.

The 2024 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system. While the infotainment system offered robust features, full access required activating trial subscriptions to connected services. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and the TRD Pro included a 12-speaker JBL audio system. Additional tech features included wireless smartphone charging, a surround-view camera, and trailering assistance.

The 2023 Ford F-250 Super Duty, starting at the XLT trim, came with the Ford CoPilot 360 suite of driver assistance features. Depending on the trim, this included automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and more. The parking camera system was crucial for maneuvering the large vehicle, and trailer blind-spot monitoring enhanced towing safety. However, the F-250 had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2024 Toyota Tundra featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Blind-spot monitoring and parking sensors were available on higher trims. The TRD Pro's driver aids worked well, though the lane-centering assist was less reliable. NHTSA awarded the Tundra Crew Cab 4WD high marks, while IIHS gave it a Top Safety Pick rating, though it received a Poor rating in a new frontal-impact test for rear-seat passengers.