Toyota Tundra vs Ford F-150 Lightning

The evolution of electric vehicles (EVs) in the US culminated in 2022 with the Ford F-150 Lightning, an EV with unparalleled mass appeal. This transition marked a significant moment as EVs moved into the mainstream auto market, with the Lightning leading the charge. On the other hand, the Toyota Tundra, a stalwart in the truck segment for over two decades, underwent a dramatic transformation for its 2023 model. This latest iteration continued to build on its legacy with a new look, advanced powertrain, and a slew of technological upgrades, maintaining its competitive edge in the fiercely contested truck market.

Performance-wise, the F-150 Lightning excels with a 10 out of 10 rating, thanks to its dual electric motors offering up to 563 horsepower and a robust 775 pound-feet of torque, alongside innovative engineering like an independent rear suspension. It also stands out for its fast-charging capabilities and respectable range. The Tundra earns an 8 out of 10, with its twin-turbo V6 and available hybrid engine providing up to 437 horsepower and impressive off-road capabilities, especially in the TRD Pro trim.

In the realm of practicality and utility, the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning demonstrates its prowess as a truly functional electric pickup, meriting a 9 out of 10 rating. Despite its revolutionary EV nature, it doesn't shy away from hard work, featuring a 5.5-foot bed equipped with numerous tie-down points and a maximum towing capacity of 10,000 pounds. Its payload capacity in the bed reaches up to 2,000 pounds. The vehicle's front end opens to reveal a "Mega Power Frunk" offering 14.1 cubic feet of storage, capable of accommodating various items or even serving as a makeshift cooler. Moreover, its onboard power supply of 9.6-kilowatt-hours enhances its utility, allowing it to power tools or serve as a backup generator during outages, showcasing Ford's innovative approach to blending functionality with electric mobility. The 2023 Toyota Tundra, with an 8 out of 10 rating for form and function, blends traditional truck utility with contemporary advances. It offers a choice of bed lengths and cab styles, demonstrating Toyota's commitment to providing options that meet the diverse demands of truck owners. Notably, the Tundra shines in its towing and payload capacities, boasting a maximum towing capacity of 12,000 pounds and a payload capacity of up to 1,940 pounds. Its interior prioritizes comfort and practicality, featuring expansive seats and a user-friendly design that incorporates technology seamlessly into the driving experience.

Technology ratings see the F-150 Lightning at 7 out of 10, with its array of digital tools and infotainment options catering to modern needs, albeit with some room for improvement in lower trims. The Tundra surpasses it with a 9 out of 10, thanks to its cutting-edge 14-inch touchscreen and comprehensive standard tech features, making it a leader in in-vehicle technology.

CarGurus experts gave the 2022 F-150 Lightning a 9 out of 10 on the safety front, highlighting its extensive suite of driver-assistance features and the availability of Ford’s BlueCruise for semi-autonomous driving. The Tundra scored a 7 out of 10. It features a robust set of safety systems under the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 package, but it lags slightly behind in terms of the latest technology offerings.

The Lightning's value proposition, rated 7 out of 10, illustrates the balance between its higher upfront cost for extended-range models and the long-term benefits of electric ownership, including potential tax credits. The Tundra, with a 9 out of 10 rating, offers a broad range of capabilities and luxury at competitive prices, backed by Toyota’s reputation for reliability and comprehensive warranty packages.