Tacoma vs ridgeline showdown: which midsize pickup reigns supreme?

When it comes to midsize pickup trucks, the Toyota Tacoma and Honda Ridgeline stand out as two of the most popular choices. Both offer a solid blend of capability, versatility, and comfort. But which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the Toyota Tacoma and Honda Ridgeline to help you make an informed decision.

Engine and Performance

Under the hood, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma offers a choice of two engines: a 2.7-liter four-cylinder with 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-liter V6 with 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. The Honda Ridgeline, on the other hand, comes equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.

In terms of performance, the Ridgeline has a slight edge over the Tacoma. Its more powerful V6 engine provides better acceleration and towing capacity. The Ridgeline can tow up to 5,000 pounds, while the Tacoma can tow up to 6,800 pounds.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for many truck buyers. The 2023 Toyota Tacoma with the four-cylinder engine gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. The V6 Tacoma gets 18 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.

The Honda Ridgeline is slightly more fuel-efficient than the Tacoma. It gets an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.

Off-Road Capability

If you’re planning on taking your truck off-road, the Toyota Tacoma is the better choice. It offers a more rugged suspension and a wider range of off-road features, including a locking rear differential, hill descent control, and crawl control.

The Honda Ridgeline is not as well-suited for off-roading as the Tacoma. It has a softer suspension and lacks some of the Tacoma’s off-road features. However, it does offer a unique feature called the In-Bed Trunk, which provides a secure and weatherproof storage space under the bed.

Interior and Features

Inside, the Toyota Tacoma and Honda Ridgeline offer different approaches to comfort and convenience. The Tacoma has a more traditional truck interior with a rugged design and durable materials. The Ridgeline, on the other hand, has a more car-like interior with a focus on comfort and technology.

Both trucks offer a wide range of features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rearview camera. The Ridgeline also offers some unique features, such as a panoramic sunroof and a rear-seat entertainment system.

Safety

Safety is another important consideration when choosing a truck. The 2023 Toyota Tacoma and Honda Ridgeline both come standard with a suite of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

The Ridgeline has a slight edge over the Tacoma in terms of safety ratings. It received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), while the Tacoma received a Top Safety Pick rating.

Price

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma has a starting price of $28,550. The 2023 Honda Ridgeline has a starting price of $38,490.

Which Truck is Right for You?

Ultimately, the best truck for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a rugged off-roader, the Toyota Tacoma is the better choice. If you’re looking for a more comfortable and fuel-efficient truck with a focus on technology, the Honda Ridgeline is the better choice.

Wrapping Up: The Ultimate Midsize Pickup Truck Showdown

The Toyota Tacoma and Honda Ridgeline are both excellent midsize pickup trucks that offer a unique blend of capabilities and features. The Tacoma is the better choice for off-roading enthusiasts, while the Ridgeline is the better choice for those who prioritize comfort, technology, and fuel efficiency.

No matter which truck you choose, you can be sure that you’re getting a vehicle that will meet your needs and provide years of reliable service.

Popular Questions

Q: Which truck has a better off-road performance?

A: The Toyota Tacoma has a better off-road performance than the Honda Ridgeline. It has a more rugged suspension and a wider range of off-road features.

Q: Which truck is more fuel-efficient?

A: The Honda Ridgeline is more fuel-efficient than the Toyota Tacoma. It gets an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, compared to the Tacoma’s 18 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which truck has a more spacious interior?

A: The Honda Ridgeline has a more spacious interior than the Toyota Tacoma. It offers more legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats.

Q: Which truck has a higher towing capacity?

A: The Toyota Tacoma has a higher towing capacity than the Honda Ridgeline. It can tow up to 6,800 pounds, while the Ridgeline can tow up to 5,000 pounds.

Q: Which truck has a better safety rating?

A: The Honda Ridgeline has a better safety rating than the Toyota Tacoma. It received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), while the Tacoma received a Top Safety Pick rating.