2021 Toyota Tacoma vs 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma presented itself as the quintessential pickup truck, embodying the classic design elements expected of such a vehicle. Its boxy fender flares, tall hood, and shield-like grille gave it a rugged appearance, contrasting with the more streamlined designs of competitors like the Ford Ranger. Certain models, like the Nightshade Edition and TRD Pro, offered unique styling features, such as blacked-out trim and model-specific grilles. Despite its body-on-frame construction, which typically affects ride quality, the Tacoma was built for towing and off-road capability, with options for Access Cab and Double Cab configurations.

In contrast, the 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD boasted a bold exterior design with a commanding presence, thanks to its tall hood and massive grille. While the interior was functional, it fell short in material quality compared to competitors like Ram and Ford. The Sierra 2500HD offered five trim levels, each with distinct features, and was available in regular, extended, and crew cab styles. The AT4 trim, which we tested, was equipped with off-road features and luxury touches, making it a rugged yet handsome choice for off-road enthusiasts.

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 278 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. It featured a part-time 4WD drivetrain with a standard electronic rear limited-slip differential. The TRD models enhanced off-road capabilities with features like upgraded suspension, Multi-Terrain Select drive modes, and Crawl Control. However, the Tacoma's on-road performance was less impressive, with slow acceleration and poor ride quality. Its maximum towing capacity was 2,948 kilograms, and payload capacity was 571 kg, respectable but not class-leading.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD, with its 6.6-litre V8 engines, offered 445 horsepower and 910 pound-feet of torque. The optional Duramax diesel engine, paired with an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission, provided abundant power. Despite its third-place finish in towing stats, the Sierra 2500HD excelled in off-roading, thanks to the AT4's equipment. It handled off-road courses with ease, though the ride was jittery on uneven pavement. The Sierra's maximum trailering weight was 8,391 kilograms, and its payload capacity was 1,637 kilograms, making it a formidable contender in the heavy-duty segment.

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma's interior space was limited, especially in the Double Cab configuration. Rear headroom and legroom were the worst in the segment, and front space was also below average. The Tacoma offered some in-cab storage, but lacked clever features like in-bed storage bins. It did include a standard rail system with tie-down cleats and an available 120-volt outlet, but overall, interior space was a compromise.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD, with its three cab configurations and two bed lengths, offered abundant passenger space. The AT4 package added extra lift, making entry a bit challenging, but side assist steps aided traction. Inside, the Sierra featured a wide centre console, dual glove boxes, and hidden storage compartments. The MultiPro tailgate, available on higher trims, provided six functions for improved cargo access, and the optional power outlets added convenience for work on the go.

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma came with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim, with standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. Higher trims offered a JBL audio system and a Multi-Terrain Monitor for off-road navigation. While functional, the infotainment system lacked standout features, with plain graphics and basic functions.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered a range of infotainment systems, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on higher trims. The Bose premium audio system provided rich sound, though the voice-recognition system had quirks. The Sierra's 15 available camera views, including a "transparent trailer" view, made towing easier, and the rear camera mirror improved visibility when the cabin was full.

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma received top "Good" scores from the IIHS in most crash tests, with an "Acceptable" score for the passenger-side small overlap front test. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall rating. The Tacoma's Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite included features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control, though it lacked some features offered by competitors.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered a range of safety and driver-assistive features, including automatic emergency braking and lane-departure warning. The Teen Driver system was standard, helping parents monitor their teen's driving habits. Due to its high GVWR, the Sierra 2500HD wasn't rated by the NHTSA or IIHS, but its mass provided safety in collisions, though it could cause severe damage to smaller vehicles.