While both have a sterling reputation for reliability, the 2021 Toyota Tacoma is a grizzled veteran while the 2021 Honda Ridgeline has a pretty new face. Which is better?
Quick Facts
- Toyota Tacoma: Reliability; Resale; Renown
- Honda Ridgeline: New look; increased capability
2021 Toyota Tacoma
2021 Toyota Tacoma Double Cab starting price: $28,155 / Read our 2021 Toyota Tacoma Review
What we like: Customizable for almost every need; durable construction; available V6; excellent resale value; TRD Pro off-road capability.
What we would change: Average fuel economy; cabin comfort; very ready for a re-do.
Overview: A best-seller for many years, the Toyota Tacoma carries on its reputation for high-quality, reliability, and resale value. The competition is fierce all of a sudden, but following a 2020 refresh, the Tacoma continues on. Newer tech is on-board, in the form of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and all models receive the Toyota safety suite with automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.
Tacoma’s standard power comes from a 2.7-liter inline-4 making 159 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. The available 3.5-liter V6 makes 278 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque which almost gets the same mileage. Tow capable up to 6,800 pounds.
What’s new for 2021: Minor changes following a 2020 refresh. They include dual-zone climate on V6 models. New Trail Edition based on SR5 Double Cab includes built-in bins in the bed, while Nightshade features darkened accouterments.
Features and technology: There are around 33 different ways you can order your Tacoma. There is literally something to cater to everyone’s needs. For off-road enthusiasts, the TRD Pro offers tremendous capabilities.
What does the future hold: Rumors are worth what you pay for them, but we hear of a possible redesign for the 2024 model year. See 2021 Toyota Tacoma models for sale near you.
2021 Honda Ridgeline:
2021 Honda Ridgeline Standard Crew Cab starting price: $36,000 EST / Read our 2021 Honda Ridgeline Review
What we like: Smooth V6 power; quick acceleration; roomy standard crew cab; refined ride; in-bed trunk; multifunction tailgate
What we would change: Not for deep-woods off-roading; FWD tows 3,500 pounds; AWD is 5,000-pound tow-capable
Overview: With probably the smoothest, car-like ride in the segment, the 2021 Honda Ridgeline oozes comfort. Some capabilities are less than others in the segment, but it is a fuel-efficiency leader. It’s a truck we would constantly be worrying about getting dirty.
What’s new for 2021: The 2021 Ridgeline features a fresh new design from the A-pillars forward. A new Honda Performance Development (HPD) package toughens up the appearance a bit, with flared fenders, a blacked-out grille, and new 18-inch wheels. Small changes inside include a revised infotainment system.
Features and technology: The Honda Ridgeline has undergone a restyling for 2021. Power is from an award-winning 3.5-liter 280-hp V6 producing 262 lb-ft of torque. The standard 9-speed automatic transmission delivers power to the front-wheel-drive system, while AWD is an available option. It moves off the line quickly and scores a similar mileage rating to mid-size trucks that get their power from a diesel powerplant.
The Ridgeline rides well thanks to its unibody construction with coil spring independent rear suspension. This helps it behave more like a car or SUV rather than a body-on-frame truck. That’s also one of the reasons this Honda is less robust than some of its heartier competitors.
Inside there is an 8-inch touchscreen display along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Specific models can be ordered with an in-bed audio system which will liven up any tailgate party.
What the future holds: Unconfirmed rumors suggest a Ridgeline Hybrid might appear later in 2021 as a 2022 model.
Ridgeline vs Tacoma: Strengths Comparison
Toyota Tacoma benefits: Reliability; substantial resale value; impressive capabilities.
Honda Ridgeline benefits: Car-like ride; very comfortable interior; decent fuel efficiency.
2021 Toyota Tacoma vs. 2021 Honda Ridgeline: Which is better?
The Toyota Tacoma provides a wide variety of vehicles for most users and outstanding reliability and resale value as does the Honda Ridgeline. While the Toyota is more adept at off-road running, if you have no plans to get your truck dirty, and prefer driving on-road to off-road, the Honda Ridgeline is our pick. Find a 2021 Honda Ridgeline for sale or Find a 2021 Toyota Tacoma for sale
| 2021 Toyota Tacoma | 2021 Honda Ridgeline | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 2.7-liter I4 | 3.5-liter V6 |
| Horsepower | 159 hp @ 5,200 rpm | 280 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 180 lb-ft @ 3,800 rpm | 262 lb-ft @ 4,700 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-spd automatic | 9-speed automatic |
| Fuel Economy | 21 mpg (20 city/23 highway) | 22 mpg (19 city/26 highway) |
| Also Available | 3.5-liter V6; 6 M/T; AWD; Cabs & Beds | AWD |
| Specs | ||
| Warranty | 3years/36,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA Safety Rating | 4 star | 5-star |
| Max Seating Capacity | 4 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 127.4 inches | 125.2 inches |
| Overall Length | 212.3 inches | 210.0 inches |
| Width | 75.2 inches | 78.6 inches |
| Height | 70.6 inches | 70.2 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 40.6 feet | 44.4 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 39.7 inches | 40.1 inches |
| Headroom, Rear | 34.9 inches | 38.8 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 42.9 inches | 40.9 inches |
| Legroom, Rear | 24.6 inches | 36.7 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 58.3 inches | 62 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Rear | 56.5 inches | 61.5 inches |
| EPA Passenger Volume | 100.1 cubic feet | 109.7 cubic feet |
| Payload Capacity | 1,620 pounds | 1,465 pounds |
