Combine the versatility and practicality of any purpose-built ute with the dependability and the concern for safety that Japanese manufacturers hold, and you get a Toyota truck. There are only two Toyota pickups offered in the US currently, but both are fairly popular.
Common Specifications for Toyota Pickups
There are a number of boxes buyers expect to see ticked when they browse through this automaker’s catalog, and these machines are not exempt. These types of Toyota trucks have some shared factors :
- Performance: Most, if not all Toyota trucks and cars are focused predominantly toward balanced performance, practicality, security, and reliability. Hence, Toyota truck models are purposed for utility, relying on powerful and consistent acceleration to get the job done. Horsepower and torque outputs are both typically strong. This avails the pickups with competitive towing and payload capabilities, although it negatively impacts ride quality on the streets. While these machines are capable of venturing off the beaten path, they are more at home in the concrete jungle.
- Powertrain: Small or base Toyota pickup models are usually equipped with moderate displacement, naturally aspirated engines with either a manual or electronic gearbox in play. Larger and higher-tier versions feature large-displacement V6 or V8 mills to compensate for the added heft. An RWD or AWD setup is preferred in either case for the benefit to functionality each provides.
- Features: By nature, Toyota trucks aren’t generally roundly outfitted with creature comforts and conveniences. But, while the spec sheet may be short, both active and passive protection measures are a given on any vehicle from this ever-attentive manufacturer. Furthermore, a moderately-sized infotainment touchscreen can be expected along with full smartphone integration and plenty of radio functionality. Toyota is known for its extensive trim lineups, which give shoppers a variety of choices in pricing and packages.
Top-Ranking Toyota Truck Models for 2020
While the brand has a number of trucks in its stable, only two roam free in the fields of America. These are:
- Tacoma: Under the hood of this midsize cruiser you’ll find a 2.7-liter inline-four or a 3.5-liter V6 engine, depending on the trim. A six-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel-drive system are standard-fit while a six-speed manual gearbox and 4x4 system are optionable. Pulling capacity spans between 3,500 and 6,800 pounds.
- Tundra: A 5.7-liter i-FORCE V8 motor and six-speed automatic transmission are the default constituents on all Tundra trims with access to both RWD or AWD setups. Max tug and payload limits come in at 10,200 and 1,730-lbs, respectively, with the correctly equipped extended cab configs.
Both machines are long-standing nameplates that have undergone continuous updates and improvements over the years right into 2020. We await new developments for the 2021 model year. Our best-of lists and reviews cover all the latest and used vehicles with comprehensive details such as price, available colors, and a whole lot more. We include pictures of each vehicle and offer comparisons based on classifications by size, fuel-type, mpg, and more.
Prices of Toyota Trucks
Model |
Power |
Engine |
Base Price |
Toyota Tacoma |
278 hp |
3.5L V6 Gas |
$27,150 |
Toyota Tundra |
348 hp |
3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 Gas |
$35,950 |
Toyota Tacoma EV |
TBC |
TBC |
TBC |
Toyota Tundra Hybrid |
437 hp |
3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 Hybrid |
$53,000 |
What to Consider Before Buying
There’s a lot to consider before buying a new Toyota pickup truck but, fortunately, our reviews, comparison tool, and rating system can give prospective buyers a clearer idea of what every vehicle in the USA proffers.
Pros
- Acceptable tow and payload hauling capabilities
- Balanced ride quality with decent off-roading ability
- Exceptional, brand-inherent safety and reliability
- Low cost of purchase with exceptional resale value
Cons
- Cabin interiors are rudimentary and bare-bones
- The US only gets access to two models from the brand
- Creature comforts and conveniences are minimal
FAQs
What’s the most fuel-efficient new Toyota pickup truck?
With EPA gas mileage estimates of 20/23/21 mpg city/highway/combined, the Tacoma is the more fuel-efficient choice when you compare it to the Tundra, which only gets 13/18/15 mpg.
Is buying a second-hand Toyota worth it?
Yes - the dependability and resale value of these automobiles are great and their starting MSRPs are relatively low. This means you are likely to find a few cheap, value-for-money deals at your local used-car dealership.