2023 Toyota Tundra vs 2024 Toyota Tacoma

When gazing upon the 2023 Toyota Tundra, its sheer size immediately struck onlookers. Dominated by a massive grille and surrounded by an imposing grille outline, the Tundra aimed to cater to the hefty demands of the Texas market. A chrome finish on the grille surround evoked images reminiscent of a Sam Elliott mustache, potentially appealing to those favoring rugged, hefty designs. Interlocking design elements, from its grille to headlights and taillights, furnished a coherent and solid visual effect, imparting an air of durability and robustness.

Despite its substantial presence, the Tundra exhibited more than sheer bulk. Slim, high-mounted headlights framed the front, while a character line down its profile added perceived length. The rear showcased a distinctive three-dimensional stamped design. The introduction of the SX Package in 2023 provided options like dark gray metallic 18-inch wheels, body-color trim pieces in place of black ones, deletion of the front door badging, and prominent blacked-out “4x4” badging on the tailgate. The TRD Pro variant stood out with its clearance lamps and a boldly stamped "TOYOTA" on the grille.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota Tacoma, while all-new, bore a recognizable resemblance to its predecessor, maintaining the familiar Toyota truck aesthetic. Enhanced by a new hexagonal grille, it projected a meaner, more menacing look, enhanced by blockier and angular lines. Base trims started with 17-inch “steelies,” progressing to 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheels on models like the TRD Sport and Limited.

Inside, the Tacoma underwent significant aesthetic shifts. Departing from organic lines, its newly squared-off dash sections and bulky, geometric gear shift focused on a functionality-driven design. Interior updates included MOLLE panels for attaching accessories, emphasizing a practical, work-oriented cabin. The Limited trim introduced luxurious features like heated and ventilated SofTex-trimmed seats, yet retained the MOLLE panels, underlining the truck's utilitarian nature.

By 2021, the second-generation Tundra had become antiquated, with only the 5.7-liter V8 remaining, delivering 391 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque but suffering from poor fuel economy at 13 mpg city and 17 highway. In response, the 2023 Tundra innovated with two V6 engine options. The standard 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 produced 389 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. For those desiring more power, a hybrid i-FORCE MAX version produced a staggering 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. The TRD Pro and Capstone featured this engine standard, while it was optional on Limited, Platinum, and 1794 Edition trims.

The Tundra's 10-speed automatic transmission offered smooth and consistent performance, and a new multi-link rear suspension significantly improved ride quality. Capable of towing up to 12,000 pounds with a payload of 1,940 pounds, the Tundra outperformed many competitors in towing, though it fell short in payload capacity. The TRD Pro excelled off-road, equipped with 1.1-inch lift, 2.5-inch Fox shocks, BBS 18-inch wheels, 33-inch tires, and comprehensive off-road technology, making it a top choice for rugged adventures.

The 2024 Tacoma adopted an all-turbo approach with its 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, boasting 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque on most trims, and 228 horsepower with 243 pound-feet of torque on the base SR trim. Its new eight-speed automatic transmission offered smooth shifts but experienced slight turbo lag from a stop. Tacoma's various trims featured distinct suspension setups, from sport-tuned shocks on TRD Sport to monotube Bilstein shocks on TRD Off-Road. The top Limited trim's adaptive variable suspension enhanced ride comfort.

The Tacoma's i-Force Max hybrid powertrain's specifics remained undisclosed, but models like the TRD Pro and Trailhunter showcased significant off-road upgrades. Standard disc brakes and electric power steering introduced new technology, enhancing driver-assistance features and addressing previous steering vagueness.

Practicality and thoughtful design are paramount in full-size pickups, and the Tundra excelled in this area. Its interior combined technology with simplicity, featuring large physical controls for volume, climate, seat heaters, and driving functions, alongside a 14-inch touchscreen standard on higher trims. The meaty lever shifter and spacious cupholders contributed to a user-friendly experience. A wireless charging pad and a practical sliding door on the center console bin enhanced convenience.

The Tundra offered ample rear space for adults, with the backseat flipping up for additional storage. Available in various size specifications, including double-cab and CrewMax configurations with different bed sizes, it provided versatility. The Tundra's maximum towing capacity of 12,000 pounds and a 1,940-pound payload made it a formidable choice for heavy-duty tasks.

The 2024 Tacoma, on the other hand, addressed previous rear-seat shortcomings by eliminating the Access Cab in favor of the XtraCab with improved cargo space. The XtraCab featured lockable storage behind the front seats and a fold-flat front passenger seat for solo contractors. The four-door Double Cab models offered enhanced comfort, with updated seat shapes and nearly identical head- and legroom measurements to the previous generation. Gas-powered Double Cabs now had three times more storage beneath the rear seats.

Tacoma's bed options included 5-foot or 6-foot lengths, with the XtraCab exclusively featuring the larger bed. The bed depth increased, accommodating accessories like camp fridges beneath the optional tonneau cover. Additionally, Toyota offered a variety of accessories, from rooftop tents to wireless trailer cameras.

The 2023 Tundra's infotainment system was a highlight, featuring an available 14-inch touchscreen with crisp graphics and fast response times. Wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto were standard across all trims, with a wireless phone charger available on higher trims. A 12-speaker audio system was standard on higher trims and optional on the Limited trim, providing a premium audio experience. The 12.3-inch digital instrument panel added a modern touch, enhancing the overall technological appeal.

The 2024 Tacoma saw significant technological improvements, with an 8-inch touchscreen standard and a massive 14-inch center display on higher trims. The latest Audio Multimedia system was responsive and legible, though minimalist in design. Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with an available Qi wireless charging pad, enhanced connectivity. The optional 10-speaker JBL sound system featured a removable portable speaker for added versatility. Pre-wired auxiliary switches and trailer brake controller options catered to towing needs, complemented by the Panoramic View Monitor and wireless trailer camera accessory.

Toyota has long been known for its commitment to safety, and the 2023 Tundra exemplified this with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 (TSS 2.5) suite. Standard features included automatic emergency braking, road-sign detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-tracing assist. A sway warning system was particularly valuable for towing, though blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were optional rather than standard. The Tundra received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS for CrewMax models in 2022.

The 2024 Tacoma raised the bar with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0), introducing advanced features like Lane Tracing Assist, lane-departure alert with steering assist, and Proactive Driving Assist. Road-sign assist and an emergency stop system were new additions, along with enhanced adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on all but the base trim. While official safety ratings were pending, the Tacoma's new standard active driver-assistance features aimed to secure top safety accolades.