2021 Ford F-150 vs Toyota Tacoma
When you’re thinking about some of the most popular pickup trucks on the road today, two models come to mind: the Ford F-150 and the Toyota Tacoma. For 2021, these pickups have really stepped up their game when it comes to performance, impressive equipment, and technology.
However, only one model can come out on top. In this comparison, we at Rountree Ford will show you which is the superior pickup truck. Drivers in the Shreveport, Bossier City, and Stonewall, LA, areas should read ahead to see which model comes out on top when it comes to performance, capability, features, and more!
Under the hood of the 2021 Ford F-150, you’ll find one of seven incredible engine options. With this model, you can choose among a few V6 engines, a V8 engine, a turbo diesel engine, and even a hybrid powertrain. As for the 2021 Toyota Tacoma, you’ll have just two engines to choose from, and neither of them can perform the way the F-150 engines do. See how their performance specs compare below:
|
2021 Ford F-150 |
2021 Toyota Tacoma |
Standard Horsepower |
290 |
159 |
Maximum Horsepower |
450 |
278 |
Standard Torque |
265 lb-ft |
180 lb-ft |
Maximum Torque |
570 lb-ft |
265 lb-ft |
Ford F-150 vs Toyota Tacoma: Towing & Hauling Capabilities
When properly equipped, the 2021 Ford F-150 offers some incredible towing and hauling capabilities. With its available 3.5L EcoBoost® twin-turbocharged V6 engine and other optional equipment, the F-150 can tow a best-in-class 14,000 pounds. With this kind of towing capacity, you can move all kinds of things, including:
- All but the largest camping trailers
- Full-size recreational boats for fishing and lounging on the water
- Multi-horse trailers for moving your animals in comfort
- Utility trailers that can hold several water skis or snowmobiles
Unfortunately, you’ll have to leave most of these things behind if you opt for the Tacoma. This model offers just over half the towing capacity of the F-150. When properly equipped, the Tacoma maxes out at a towing capacity of 6,800 pounds.
On top of these conventional towing capabilities, the F-150 also offers a diesel tow rating of 12,100 pounds with its available 3.0L Power Stroke® Turbo Diesel V6 engine. The Tacoma doesn’t even offer a diesel engine.
In addition to everything the F-150 can pull behind it, this model can also handle quite a bit of weight in the bed. With the proper equipment, the F-150 can haul a best-in-class payload capacity of 3,325 pounds. Compare this to the Tacoma’s 1,685-pound payload capacity when properly configured.
Ford F-150 vs Toyota Tacoma: Available Equipment Options
The performance-ready engines offered by the Ford F-150 may be the stars of the show, but they don’t work alone. This model also offers a variety of helpful towing and hauling features, starting with an available Pro Trailer Backup Assist™ system that synchronizes the truck and trailer to make for easy reverses.
This advanced system comes with an in-cabin knob that you can use to steer the trailer behind you. While you’re backing up, easily guide your trailer with gentle turns of this knob. Even when you’re towing the maximum load, you’ll remain in complete control with this feature.
The F-150 doesn’t stop there, though. This model comes standard with a Rear View Camera with Dynamic Hitch Assist and offers available BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with Trailer Coverage. The latter system keeps an eye on your blind spots and lets you know when a vehicle is in them in order to potentially prevent collisions.
Unfortunately, none of these assistive towing features are available in the 2021 Toyota Tacoma.
Ford F-150 vs Toyota Tacoma: Interior Space & Premium Comfort
The 2021 Ford F-150 gives you a choice of three different cab options, including a spacious 6-passenger SuperCrew option. The 2021 Toyota Tacoma offers just two cab options and up to five seats. Even with its biggest cab option, the interior space of the Tacoma doesn’t compare to that of the F-150:
2021 Ford F-150 |
2021 Toyota Tacoma |
|
Front/Rear Headroom |
40.8 inches/40.4 inches |
39.7 inches/38.3 inches |
Front/Rear Legroom |
43.9 inches/43.6 inches |
42.9 inches/32.6 inches |
Front/Rear Shoulder Room |
66.7 inches/66.0 inches |
58.3 inches/58.9 inches |
On top of having more than 10 additional inches of legroom in the rear row of seats, the F-150 also offers a lengthy lineup of premium comfort features, including available heated and ventilated front seats. With the Tacoma, you’ll only have heating capabilities for the front seats.
Ford F-150 vs Toyota Tacoma: Advanced Technology Features
On top of all the helpful towing features that the 2021 Ford F-150 has to offer, it also brings the heat when it comes to entertainment technology. Inside this model, you’ll find a standard SYNC® 4 infotainment system that boasts all kinds of helpful features.
With this system, you’ll get Bluetooth®, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, Amazon Alexa integration, and even a built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. You can also upgrade to a larger, 12-inch touchscreen display to take advantage of the F-150’s available 360-Degree Camera Package with split-view capabilities.
The 2021 Toyota Tacoma offers a similar infotainment system. However, its audio system doesn’t offer nearly as many features as the F-150’s infotainment system. You’ll still get some, but you’ll miss out on Amazon Alexa.
2021 Ford F-150 vs 2021 Toyota Tacoma: Which One?
As you can see, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma has a few great features and capabilities, but the 2021 Ford F-150 delivers all around. Live life unlimited with the F-150 and its many class-leading towing and hauling capabilities, top-of-the-line equipment, and seemingly endless lineup of technologies.
Now that you’ve had a taste of what the F-150 has to offer, it’s time to get behind the wheel and experience it for yourself. Drivers in the Shreveport, Bossier City, and Stonewall, Louisiana, areas should give us a call at Rountree Ford today to schedule a test drive!