What's The Difference Between The Toyota Tacoma Vs. Tundra?
You can't make an informed decision on your next Toyota pickup without first perusing a detailed Tacoma vs. Tundra comparison. Join DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville as we dive into the specs, dimensions, and amenities of these highly dependable trucks.
Toyota Tacoma vs. Tundra Truck Comparison At a Glance
- The Toyota Tacoma is a smaller midsize pickup without various off-road-focused trims and a lower starting TSRP, while the Tundra is a full-size model with serious towing and hauling chops.
- Both trucks are great on the path less traveled, but the Tacoma is preferable for those who want a maneuverable trail companion with four distinct nature-loving variations.
- Gas-only and hybrid powertrains, as well as 4x2 or 4x4 drivetrains, are available for either pickup.
- Tacoma models earn better fuel ratings, while Tundra builds provide more power.
2 Dynamic Toyota Trucks: Which Will You Choose?
Both trucks in our Toyota Tacoma vs. Tundra guide are backed by the Toyota brand's long-standing reputation for reliability and come with modern comforts and tech, so how do you choose which one is right for you? We can help! The main difference between Tacoma and Tundra models is their capabilities. The Tacoma is a midsize model that has various trims with enhanced off-road capabilities, while the full-size Tundra leans more toward all-out towing strength and premium options.
Toyota Tacoma vs. Toyota Tundra Comparison Chart
| 2025 Toyota Tacoma | 2026 Toyota Tundra | |
|---|---|---|
| Classification | Midsize truck | Full-size truck |
| Engine |
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| Horsepower |
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| Torque |
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| Max. EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) |
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| Transmission | 6-spd manual or 8-spd auto | 10-spd auto |
| Drivetrain | RWD or 4WD | RWD or 4WD |
| Max. Towing Capacity | 6,500 lbs2 | 12,000 lbs2 |
| Max. Payload Capacity | 1,705 lbs3 | 1,940 lbs3 |
Toyota Tacoma vs. Toyota Tundra Specs
As you can see above, the Tundra and Tacoma both offer gas-only and hybrid powertrains, along with rear- or four-wheel drive capability. There are some differences, though.
The smaller Tacoma powertrain makes anywhere between 228 and 326 horsepower and pairs with either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission, depending on your build. If you're interested in seeing how the Tacoma compares to one of its top midsize pickup competitors, check out our Toyota Tacoma vs. Chevy Colorado guide.
On the other hand, the full-size Tundra puts more power under the command of motorists. With a larger twin-turbo V-6 engine (gas or hybrid), it puts out between 358 and 437 horsepower. It sports a 10-speed automatic transmission across all configurations, though, meaning it doesn't offer as much driving control as the Tacoma.
Tacoma vs. Tundra MPG
Fuel efficiency ranges widely for both trucks, due to each truck's vast number of powertrain, bed size, body style, and drivetrain configurations.
That being said, you can see where each model peaks for gas-only and hybrid performance in the chart above. To reiterate, the Tacoma earns up to an EPA-estimated 23/24/23 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)1 with its hybrid powertrain.
On the other hand, the brutish Tundra tops out at 20/24/22 MPG (City/Highway/Combined) 1 with hybrid capability. Although when you consider that it can tow nearly double what the Tacoma can, this slight difference in fuel efficiency seems negligible.
Tacoma vs. Tundra Towing Capacity
The Tacoma is plenty capable for its class. It has a 3,500-pound towing capacity 2 at the lower end, but it can reach up to 6,500 pounds 2 with the right setup. If you want to know more about its hauling potential, head over to our Toyota Tacoma towing capacity review.
Tundra models are your best bet if your goal is to maximize what you can pull. Even the lower end of its towing prowess gives you more to work with than the Tacoma, starting out at around 8,300 pounds.2 As you can see in our Toyota Tundra towing capacity guide, this can be boosted all the way up to 12,000 pounds,2 depending on your build.
Tacoma vs. Tundra Off-Road Capabilities
Toyota trucks are built to keep up with an adventurous lifestyle, so how do they compare in terms of off-roading? Overall, the Tacoma is ideal for tighter trails and tricky maneuvering. Plus, it has more trims designed for daring exploration. The Tundra is still a capable explorer, but it's more focused on pure strength, which can be advantageous for long overlanding excursions.
Tundra vs. Tacoma Size
See which is bigger – Tundra or Tacoma – with the dimensions chart below.
| 2025 Toyota Tacoma | 2026 Toyota Tundra | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 213 - 227.4 in | 233.6 - 252.5 |
| Width | 76.9 - 77.9 in | 80.2 in |
| Height | 73.8 - 75.8 in | 78 in |
| Bed Length | 60.3 - 73.5 in | 65.6 - 96.5 in |
| Bed Width | 44.7 in | 58.7 in |
| Bed Depth | 20.2 - 21.2 in | 20.9 in |
In addition to the size differences between these trucks, the Toyota Tundra interior is more spacious and well-equipped than the utility-focused Tacoma lineup.
Test-Drive the Toyota Truck Lineup Today
Visit DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville to test-drive the Tacoma and Tundra. If city-friendly dimensions and rugged appointments, like specially tuned suspension options, speak to you, we'll walk you through our Toyota Tacoma lease deals.
Alternatively, if strength and space are what you're after, we can discuss Toyota Tundra deals and specials. The choice is yours!
Want to keep reading? Check out our guide on the Toyota Tacoma colors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: the Tacoma or Tundra?
Neither pickup is inherently better, though one may be more suited to your needs and preferences. The Tacoma is ideal for drivers who want moderate towing power with agile dimensions for in-town driving and daring features for the trails. Meanwhile, the Tundra is best for those who want more cargo and cabin space alongside robust towing and hauling capabilities.
What is the best Toyota truck to buy?
The best Toyota truck for you depends on what you need from a vehicle. Do you want an off-road-ready truck that has easy-clean upholstery choices and handles like a dream in urban and rural environments? Choose the Tacoma. Want a truck with up to 12,000 pounds of towing,2 elegant available amenities, and more creature comforts? The Tundra is best for you.
Which truck holds its value better: the Tacoma or Tundra?
Going off their 2025 models, both of these trucks hold their value extremely well. According to J.D. Power, the 2025 Tacoma has a "Best" Resale score of 96/100, 4 while the 2025 Tundra has a "Great" Resale score of 89/100. 5 With high demand for Toyota automobiles in general, you can breathe easy investing in either of these pickups.
Featured Customer Review
Alicia Gordon
04/01/2025
Dylan Grapas was a knowledgeable and professional sales associate. He was helpful with any questions we had. He was also very honest, transparent, and patient. We are happy to have done business with 355 Toyota, and we will surely come back again or refer friends and family.