The Toyota Tacoma vs the Toyota Tundra
Looking for a pickup truck built to deliver in all of Montana’s toughest conditions? Look no further than the Toyota brand. At Toyota of Bozeman, we have a wide selection of new pickup trucks built to deliver thrills and power to your life, whether you’re looking for a pickup truck to power your small business or you’re after a truck you can take on your next camping trip. The Toyota Tacoma is perhaps the better-known pickup of the two, offering tons of configuration options, trail-ready trim levels, and an optional manual transmission. The Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck that offers more power, configuration options, and payload capacity. Which makes the most sense for you? In our Toyota truck comparison below, we’ll preview everything you need to know about the two pickup trucks to help you choose the right one for your needs. If you’d like to compare these trucks for yourself, visit our Toyota dealership in Bozeman for a test drive today.
Toyota Tacoma vs Toyota Tundra Towing Capacity
Both Toyota trucks follow a similar formula: a base gas engine with two power levels, and a secondary hybrid model found higher up the trim levels. Let’s start by breaking down the Tacoma:
| Engine: | Horsepower: | Torque (lb-ft): | Towing Capacity (lbs): | Payload (lbs): |
| 2.4-liter turbo four | 228/278 | 243/317 | 6,500 | 1,705 |
| Hybrid 2.4-liter four | 326 | 465 | 6,000 | 1,709 |
The Tacoma is plenty capable of casual hauling as needed, best deployed on camping trips, hauling boats, or helping your friends move. Rear and four-wheel drive are both available. An eight-speed automatic is the standard, but a six-speed automatic is available. If you’re looking for some extra towing ability, the larger Toyota Tundra offers the following powertrains:
| Engine: | Horsepower: | Torque (lb-ft): | Towing Capacity (lbs): | Payload (lbs): |
| 3.4-liter twin-turbo V-6 | 348/389 | 405/479 | 12,000 | 1,940 |
| Hybrid 3.4-liter twin-turbo V-6 | 437 | 583 | 11,450 | 1,680 |
Sadly, there’s no manual option for the Tundra: it only comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission. If you’re more interested in hauling power, rear-wheel drive is the standard, while all-wheel drive might be more suited for the Montana lifestyle. Both models are touted for their durability, with Toyota trucks expected to endure for hundreds of thousands of miles. Of course, the Tundra wins when comparing power, but the real question is lifestyle. If you need the extra power, choose the Tundra; if you prefer a smaller profile, the Tacoma is a great choice.
Toyota Tundra vs Toyota Tacoma Size and Configuration
The mid-size Tundra is about 1,000 lbs lighter than its larger sibling, while the Tundra sits taller, longer, and wider. The Tacoma has a bit more ground clearance, getting 10 inches before any modifications. The Tundra gets a standard 6’6” bed, while the Tacoma gets a 5’ bed. Both models seat up to five passengers across some different cab types. The Tacoma has a four-door, five-seat Double Cab and a two-door XtraCab with two seats and extra rear storage. The Tundra gets an extended Double Cab and a Crew Cab, both of which seat five passengers. The interior of each cabin is generously equipped across the board, with your choice of touchscreens across trim levels, and standard features include wireless smartphone connectivity. If you’d like to learn more about the new Toyota pickup trucks, visit our Toyota dealership in Bozeman.
Tacoma vs Tundra Trim Levels and Pricing
Toyota’s trucks come in all sorts of trim levels. While we won’t compare and contrast each model, we will run you through the highlights and compare pricing across the entry, mid, and top-end gas trim levels.
| Trim Level: | MSRP: |
| Toyota Tacoma SR | $32,245 |
| Toyota Tacoma TRD PreRunner | $38,835 |
| Toyota Tacoma Limited | $53,270 |
| Trim Level: | MSRP: |
| Toyota Tundra SR | $41,260 |
| Toyota Tundra Limited | $54,860 |
| Toyota Tundra Platinum | $63,695 |
In most instances, you can expect the Tundra to be about $10,000 more than the corresponding Tacoma. Many of the trim levels across the two trucks are shared, giving you a 1-1 comparison. Take the Limited models, for instance. On the Tacoma, that’s a top-end gas trim level, equipped with niceties like an adaptive variable suspension system and 18-inch chrome wheels. The same trim level on the Tundra is a bit more luxury-focused than off-road-focused, though, with a 14-inch display screen and leather-trimmed seats. Compare and contrast the different sizes for yourself with Toyota of Bozeman!
Compare Toyota Trucks for Sale in Bozeman, Montana
No matter which truck you choose, you’ll find dependability, excellent towing ability, and longevity that you expect from the Toyota brand. At the end of the day, the Tacoma is best suited for casual hauling and off-road excursions, while the Tundra would be our choice for any more significant towing duties. Compare and contrast Toyota trucks for sale in Montana with Toyota of Bozeman today!