2022 Toyota Tacoma vs 2021 Toyota Tundra

If you’ve been paying attention to any new truck ads, you’ll likely see items being promoted like a massive touchscreen or even a six-way multi-function tailgate. Like the rest of the automotive industry, the truck segment is charging ahead with many new innovations, incorporating new in-car technologies. But this seems like overkill for a segment whose main purpose is to tow, haul, and get work done.

The window sticker for this Toyota Tundra says “2021,” but its design and underpinnings date back to the mid-2000s. It’s the oldest truck in a segment where companies are constantly one-upping and updating. So does the Tundra’s age hinder it among full-size pickups? Not really. In fact, it might be its best attribute. The Tundra might be an old design, but the engineers at Toyota have kept the Tundra relevant with some key updates and special editions.

Other small trucks have come and gone—and come back again—but the Toyota Tacoma has been the cornerstone of the segment for decades now. Though it has grown in size through the years, it has remained one of the best options if you’re in the market for a smaller alternative to full-size pickups. It’s a great option for a commuter who goes on the occasional camping, kayaking, or mountain biking adventure. The bed is good for picking up supplies to tackle a weekend project.

But the midsize Tacoma has increased competition. In the past decade, the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, and Ford Ranger have returned. The Nissan Frontier recently received a long-overdue overhaul. And there’s even a new crop of compact pickups, including the Hyundai Santa Cruz and Ford Maverick. So is the Tacoma still the big dog among small trucks?