2023 Toyota Tacoma vs 2023 Toyota Tundra

The Toyota Tacoma has long been the go-to midsize truck for those valuing reliability, manageable size, and off-road capability, particularly in its TRD Pro trim. However, it faces stiff competition from newer, more efficient rivals, signaling a pivotal moment for this iconic pickup. In contrast, the Toyota Tundra has undergone significant changes, emerging as a fully modernized full-size truck with a powerful new engine lineup and a suite of technological advancements, especially in the TRD Pro and Capstone trims.

Both the Tacoma and Tundra earn an 8 out of 10 in performance from CarGurus experts. The Tacoma, with its 3.5-liter V6, provides decent acceleration and off-road capability, especially in the TRD Pro trim, but struggles with fuel efficiency. In contrast, the Tundra's twin-turbo V6 and optional hybrid powertrain offer powerful and smooth performance, with significant improvements in handling and towing capacity. The TRD Pro version of each truck enhances off-road capabilities, though the Tundra's size can limit its trail versatility.

In terms of practicality and versatility, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma offers a wide array of configurations to suit different needs and preferences. Rated 7 out of 10 by CarGurus experts, the Tacoma is available in both access-cab and double-cab body styles, with the former featuring clamshell-style doors and a six-foot-one-inch bed, and the latter offering a choice between a long bed and a shorter, five-foot bed. The access cab, while offering seating for four, is tight in terms of legroom, making it more suitable for smaller cargo or occasional passengers. The double cab provides easier access and more comfortable seating, though tall drivers may find the driving position less than ideal. Despite these limitations, even the five-foot bed of the Tacoma can accommodate a generous amount of gear, highlighting its balance of compactness and utility. The 2023 Toyota Tundra, scoring an 8 out of 10, excels in blending functionality with luxury. The Tundra's design caters to practicality in full-size pickup truck standards, offering a variety of bed lengths and cab configurations. The double-cab models can be equipped with either a 6.5-foot bed or an 8.1-foot bed, while the CrewMax body style provides options for a 5.5-foot or a 6.5-foot bed. This flexibility ensures that the Tundra can meet a broad range of hauling and storage needs. The interior of the Tundra is meticulously designed for comfort and convenience, with ample space in both the front and rear seats to accommodate adults comfortably. The rear seats also flip up to reveal additional storage space, enhancing the truck's functionality.

In technology, the Tacoma lags with a 6 out of 10 rating, offering basic connectivity and entertainment options without the latest infotainment software. The Tundra excels with a 9 out of 10, featuring a large touchscreen, advanced connectivity, and a superior sound system, highlighting Toyota's commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology in its full-size offering.

Both models score a 7 out of 10 for safety, with the Tacoma equipped with Toyota Safety Sense and additional features like blind-spot monitoring in higher trims. However, it lacks some of the more advanced driving aids available in competitors. The Tundra comes with a more comprehensive suite of safety features but still relies on the previous generation of Toyota Safety Sense, offering robust protection and assistance but missing the latest updates.

The Tacoma, rated 7 out of 10, offers a range of prices and trims but faces strong competition in value from newer models. The Tundra, receiving a 9 out of 10, presents a compelling value proposition with its base model's strong capabilities and the luxurious yet competitively priced higher trims, backed by solid warranties and maintenance programs.