What To Know
- However, the Tundra has a slightly better reliability rating and a more powerful standard engine.
- If you prioritize reliability and a more comfortable interior, the Tundra is a solid option.
- Both the Tundra and F-150 have a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
The rivalry between the Toyota Tundra and Ford F-150 has been heating up for decades. Both trucks are renowned for their power, capability, and reliability. However, each has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive into every aspect of these two titans to help you make an informed decision.
Performance: Power and Efficiency
Engine Options:
- Tundra: 3.5L V6 (389 hp, 479 lb-ft), 4.6L V8 (310 hp, 327 lb-ft)
- F-150: 3.3L V6 (290 hp, 265 lb-ft), 2.7L EcoBoost V6 (325 hp, 400 lb-ft), 5.0L V8 (400 hp, 410 lb-ft), 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (400 hp, 500 lb-ft)
The F-150 offers a wider range of engine options, including more powerful V6 and V8 options. However, the Tundra’s standard 3.5L V6 produces more horsepower and torque than the F-150’s base 3.3L V6.
Fuel Economy:
- Tundra: 17 mpg city/22 mpg highway (3.5L V6)
- F-150: 19 mpg city/25 mpg highway (2.7L EcoBoost V6)
The F-150’s smaller engine options offer better fuel economy than the Tundra’s standard V6. However, the Tundra’s larger V8 option is more fuel-efficient than the F-150’s 5.0L V8.
Capability: Payload and Towing
Payload Capacity:
- Tundra: 1,940 lbs (Regular Cab), 1,640 lbs (Double Cab), 1,520 lbs (CrewMax)
- F-150: 3,250 lbs (Regular Cab), 2,330 lbs (SuperCab), 2,120 lbs (SuperCrew)
The F-150 has a significant advantage in payload capacity, especially in the Regular Cab configuration. However, the Tundra’s Double Cab and CrewMax configurations still offer respectable payload ratings.
Towing Capacity:
- Tundra: 12,000 lbs (Regular Cab), 11,500 lbs (Double Cab), 10,200 lbs (CrewMax)
- F-150: 14,000 lbs (Regular Cab), 13,500 lbs (SuperCab), 12,700 lbs (SuperCrew)
Both trucks offer impressive towing capacities, but the F-150 has a slight edge in all cab configurations.
Interior: Comfort and Convenience
Cabin Space:
- Tundra: 102.8 cu ft (Regular Cab), 105.7 cu ft (Double Cab), 128.2 cu ft (CrewMax)
- F-150: 106.9 cu ft (Regular Cab), 112.7 cu ft (SuperCab), 122.4 cu ft (SuperCrew)
The F-150 offers slightly more cabin space than the Tundra in all cab configurations. However, both trucks provide ample room for passengers and cargo.
Features:
- Tundra: Standard touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, optional heated and cooled seats
- F-150: Standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, optional 12-inch touchscreen, optional Bang & Olufsen audio system
The F-150 offers a wider range of infotainment and convenience features than the Tundra. However, the Tundra’s standard touchscreen system is user-friendly and provides all the essential features.
Safety: Crash Ratings and Driver Aids
Crash Ratings:
- Tundra: 5-star overall rating (NHTSA)
- F-150: 5-star overall rating (NHTSA)
Both the Tundra and F-150 have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Driver Aids:
- Tundra: Standard Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ (automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control)
- F-150: Standard Ford Co-Pilot360 (automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring)
Both trucks come standard with a suite of advanced driver aids. However, the F-150’s Co-Pilot360 system includes more features than the Tundra’s Safety Sense 2.5+.
Reliability: Long-Term Ownership
J.D. Power Dependability Study:
- Tundra: Ranked above average (3rd out of 19)
- F-150: Ranked average (10th out of 19)
The Tundra has a slightly better reliability rating than the F-150, according to the J.D. Power Dependability Study. However, both trucks have a solid reputation for durability and longevity.
Price: Value for Money
- Tundra: Starting at $36,420
- F-150: Starting at $34,370
The F-150 has a lower starting price than the Tundra. However, the price difference narrows as you move up the trim levels. Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your specific needs and budget.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Truck
The Toyota Tundra and Ford F-150 are both excellent full-size pickup trucks. The F-150 offers a wider range of engine options, better fuel economy, and more cabin space. However, the Tundra has a slightly better reliability rating and a more powerful standard engine.
Ultimately, the best truck for you depends on your specific priorities. If you need maximum payload and towing capacity, the F-150 is the clear choice. If you prioritize reliability and a more comfortable interior, the Tundra is a solid option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which truck has a better warranty?
A: Both the Tundra and F-150 have a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Q: Which truck has a better off-road capability?
A: The F-150 Raptor is a dedicated off-road model that offers superior off-road performance compared to the Tundra.
Q: Which truck is better for towing a heavy trailer?
A: The F-150 has a higher maximum towing capacity than the Tundra, making it a better choice for towing heavy trailers.