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Toyota Tundra vs Tacoma: size, cabs, suspension, power, towing

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See how Toyota Tundra vs Tacoma differ in size, cab styles, suspension, engines, payload and towing. Clear, side-by-side guide to pick the right truck for jobs.
Michael Powers, Editor

Toyota’s two pickups serve different needs. Here’s a clear, side-by-side look at how the Tundra and Tacoma diverge in size, cab layouts, suspension, engines, and capability—so it’s easier to pick the truck that fits the job.

1. Vehicle size

Tundra

This is a full-size pickup with generous proportions and notably high ground clearance. The larger footprint lets it haul bulky cargo and handle heavy-duty work while keeping passengers comfortable thanks to a spacious cabin and a roomy bed.

Tacoma

A midsize pickup with a smaller footprint, a more compact body, and a relatively lower seating position. That layout makes tight urban parking far less stressful and gives it excellent agility on narrow streets. Despite the modest dimensions, it offers enough power and functionality for most day-to-day tasks.

2. Cab styles

Tacoma

Available cab versions include:

  • XtraCab — an intermediate two-door cab with a small rear passenger area;
  • Double Cab — a classic five-door configuration with a full second row and generous interior space.

Tundra

Offered in the following cab formats:

  • Double Cab — similar to Tacoma’s Double Cab, also fitted with four doors and convenient rear seating;
  • CrewMax — a significantly enlarged cabin with even more comfort and extra room for luggage or additional equipment.

3. Suspension

Tacoma

Uses a traditional solid setup with leaf springs. It’s a durable arrangement with strong stability off-road, though it can noticeably reduce ride comfort on smooth pavement and over long distances.

Tundra

Employs a complex, multi-stage independent suspension additionally equipped with an air system. This approach improves handling and ride quality, reducing shake and body motions on rough sections while enhancing overall safety.

4. Engine

Tacoma

Powered by a modern turbocharged four-cylinder that can deliver up to 326 horsepower and a maximum torque of up to 465 pound-feet. It handles most city use and standard tasks with confidence.

Tundra

Fitted with a powerful turbocharged six-cylinder capable of up to 437 horsepower and a peak 583 pound-feet of torque. This unit suits heavy loads and longer hauls.

5. Payload and towing performance

Tundra

The payload figure reaches an impressive mark—up to 5,443 kg. That means it can move large volumes of cargo and delivers strong towing capability for a heavy trailer or other vehicles.

Tacoma

While that metric is notably lower here, it remains sufficient for typical household and commercial duties—the maximum payload is about 2,950 kg. If you plan to carry more, the Tundra is the better fit.