Category: Tacoma

Apr 26

Price Wars: Ford Ranger Raptor vs. Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro – A Cost-Benefit Analysis

Cost Advantage: Ford Ranger Raptor

The 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor emerges as a more budget-friendly contender in the off-road truck segment, offering a significant price benefit over the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro. With a starting price of $57,065, including destination fees, the Ranger Raptor is almost $10,000 cheaper than its counterpart, the Tacoma, which is tagged at $66,890 including fees. This price disparity makes the Ranger Raptor an attractive option for buyers looking for high performance without the hefty price.

Shifting Market Dynamics Favor the Ford Ranger Raptor

Traditionally dominated by the Toyota Tacoma, the mid-size truck sector is witnessing a shift with the entry of the competitively priced Ford Ranger Raptor. This shift not only challenges the Tacoma’s long-standing market leadership but also introduces a cost-effective alternative for truck enthusiasts. The Tacoma’s higher price point now positions the Ranger Raptor as a formidable competitor offering substantial value.

Comparative Performance and Off-Road Capabilities

Both the Ford Ranger Raptor and the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro are designed to excel in off-road conditions, equipped with advanced technologies and powerful engines. The Ranger Raptor boasts a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, which produces 405 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, outperforming the Tacoma TRD Pro’s hybrid setup that delivers 325 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. This difference in power and the immediate torque response from the Tacoma’s hybrid system highlight each vehicle’s unique approach to balancing performance and efficiency.

The 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor jumping in the desert
2024 Ford Ranger Raptor | Ford

Enhanced Insights and Benefits

Financial Implications of Lower Cost

Opting for the Ford Ranger Raptor could lead to considerable savings for consumers, which could alternatively be used for vehicle customization or saved for other expenses. This financial advantage underscores the Ranger Raptor’s appeal as an economically wise choice without compromising on the expected off-road functionality.

Off-Road Technology and Design

Each truck is outfitted with state-of-the-art off-road tech, including electronically locking differentials and specially tuned Fox shocks, poised to tackle tough terrain with ease. While both models feature 33-inch tires, the Ranger Raptor offers 10.7 inches of ground clearance compared to the Tacoma’s 11.0 inches, slightly edging out in terms of underbody protection.

Interior Comfort and Ergonomic Design

Inside, the Ford Ranger Raptor and Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro cater to off-road comfort with distinct seating solutions designed to support the driver and passengers in rugged conditions. The Ranger Raptor is equipped with supportive bucket seats, whereas the Tacoma opts for isodynamic seating to enhance stability and comfort, proving that both models prioritize ergonomics to enhance the overall driving experience.

In conclusion, the Ford Ranger Raptor’s significant price advantage coupled with its robust features and performance makes it a compelling choice for potential buyers, challenging the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro’s dominance in the market with a blend of affordability and capability.

Apr 26

The i-Force Max Powertrain Boosts the Toyota Tacoma Trail-Conquering Qualities

It might be a hybrid powertrain, but it’s not a boring fuel-sipper. The new 2024 Toyota Tacoma benefits from Toyota’s push toward hybridization for nearly every model. This popular midsize pickup truck receives the power and performance of an impressive i-Force Max hybrid powertrain on some trims. This new powertrain could maximize your fun in this midsize truck.

What are the power figures for the i-Force Max Tacoma?

Some might be able to recite the figures from memory, that’s how much this new Tacoma powertrain has been covered. Still, for those unfamiliar, the new i-Force Max powertrain uses a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylindeer engine and a 48-horsepower electric motor. This motor is integrated into the 8-speed automatic transmission to boost the entire system’s power.

This setup gives the Toyota Tacoma 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. If that doesn’t impress you, this might. The torque figure is 75% greater than the torque produced by the previous Tacoma’s V6 engine. That’s an impressive increase.

Is this powertrain reserved for only one trim?

Thankfully, Toyota doesn’t reserve the i-Force Max powertrain for the top Tacoma trims. It’s standard on the Trailhunter and TRD Pro models, which are the top two trims, but that’s not the end. This incredible new powertrain is also available for the TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and Limited models. This gives you five trims to choose from for this incredible new hybrid powertrain.

An amazing trail-focused powertrain

Experienced off-roaders often search for as much torque as possible in their vehicles. This power item is ideal for slow-going mud crawling or hill climbing. The Toyota Tacoma was already an impressive off-road truck, especially at the TRD Pro trim, but the i-Force Max torque takes things to a new level.

In addition to the impressive, torque-rich powertrain, The Tacoma brings several features that make it more enjoyable on the trails. Some of these are:

  • Robust 4WD system – full-time on Limited models but part-time for TRD Pro and Trailhunter
  • Electronically controlled 2-speed transfer case
  • Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism
  • Specific trim suspension settings
  • IsoDynamic Performance Front Seats – TRD Pro

The right angles for your off-road adventures

The Toyota Tacoma brings impressive off-road angles to the TRD Pro trim. This is the most hardcore off-roader of the Tacoma lineup, and it gives you:

  • 35.7 degree approach angle
  • 24.6 degree breakover angle
  • 22.6 degree departure angle
  • 11.5 inches of ground clearance

Is the i-Force Max powertrain efficient?

Compared to ICE powertrains from other midsize pickups, this new i-Force Max powertrain is efficient. It gives the Toyota Tacoma up to 24 mpg combined. This new powertrain takes midsize truck driving to new levels and throws down the gauntlet, challenging other automakers.

Aug 20

Why the 2023 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road is the Top Choice for Buyers

Overview of the 2023 Toyota Tacoma Trims

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma offers a range of trims to suit various needs, from basic to high-performance. Starting at $28,600, the base SR trim provides essential features and a modest four-cylinder engine, while higher trims like the TRD Pro, priced from $48,035, deliver enhanced off-road capabilities and luxury features. Despite the variety, one trim stands out as the clear favorite among buyers.

The Popularity of the TRD Off-Road Trim

Data from Edmunds reveals that the Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road trim is the most popular among buyers. This trim strikes a balance between price and capability, featuring standard Bilstein shocks, an electronic locking rear differential, and crawl control for off-road performance. It also offers optional four-wheel drive and a multi-terrain select system, making it an appealing choice for those who seek adventure without breaking the bank.

Why the TRD Off-Road is a Smart Choice

The TRD Off-Road’s blend of off-road prowess and value is a major draw for customers. Car and Driver reviewers favor this trim for its robust capabilities and reasonable price, while Edmunds suggests the SR5 if off-roading isn’t a priority. Looking ahead, the redesigned 2024 Tacoma promises even more enhancements, including a new Trailhunter trim with advanced features, but the TRD Off-Road remains a strong contender for those who need a versatile and well-priced option now.

Jul 20

The 2023 Chevy Colorado Rocks the Toyota Tacoma in 1 Critical Area

The Chevrolet Colorado has been trying to catch the Toyota Tacoma for years, but it has one undeniable advantage. The revamped 2023 Chevy Colorado has the muscle to finally dethrone the 2023 Toyota Tacoma, and it still beats the remodeled 2024 Tacoma too.

Can the 2023 Chevy Colorado tow more than the Toyota Tacoma?

Yes, the 2023 Chevy Colorado can tow more than the 2023 Toyota Tacoma. When properly equipped, the 2023 Colorado can tow up to 7,700 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,684 lbs. It matches what the Jeep Gladiator can tow.

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma can tow up to 6,800 lbs and can carry a payload of up to 1,685 lbs. So, the Colorado can tow up to 900 lbs more, which isn’t that big of a difference. But hey, size matters.

Plus, the 2024 Tacoma can tow up to 6,500 lbs. It actually lost 300 lbs of towing power. So, the Colorado can tow 1,200 lbs more than the new Tacoma. That’s a much better-looking figure. Also, the redesigned Tacoma can carry a payload of up to 1,709 lbs.

Does the Colorado or Tacoma have more power?

The standard Colorado has more power than the entry-level 2023 Tacoma. The Colorado kicks things off with a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine that churns out 237 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque.

With the standard 2023 Toyota Tacoma, you get a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine with 159 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. But you can upgrade to the 3.5–liter V6 engine for 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque.

The Turbo Plus variant of the Colorado provides 310 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. The High Output variant boosts the torque to 430 lb.

With the 2024 Tacoma, the standard turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine provides 228 and 243 lb-ft of torque. It’s tuned to provide 278 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque on higher trim levels.

The Tacoma Hybrid benefits from the new i-FORCE Max powertrain, which pairs the 2.7-liter engine with a battery pack and an electric motor to generate 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque.

So, the Colorado has more power than the 2023 Tacoma and the gas-powered 2024 Tacoma models. However, the Tacoma Hybrid squeezes in a win with 16 more hp and 35 more torque.

The 2023 Colorado can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.0 seconds, and the 2023 Tacoma gets there in roughly 7.7 seconds, but it has been clocked as low as 6.6 seconds.

Does the Colorado or Tacoma have more space?

The 2023 Chevy Colorado provides more interior space than the 2023 Toyota Tacoma. You’ll find that taller adults fit more comfortably in the front and rear of the Colorado. However, the rear seat is still pretty tight.

If you want more passenger space, then consider going for the Jeep Gladiator or Honda Ridgeline. They have the largest backseats in the segment. Also, the Colorado has more storage capacity.

It has a larger center console and glove box. The rear seats are easier to fold up in the Colorado as well. However, the 2024 Tacoma boasts increased space and storage capacity. It could have more passenger room too.

For now, we can determine that the Chevy Colorado has more muscle than the Tacoma. It can tow more than the 2023 and 2024 models. Stay tuned for updates as we get behind the wheel of the 2024 Tacoma to compare its new features.