2023 Toyota Tacoma vs 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD, redesigned for the 2020 model year, boasted a bold exterior with a tall hood, squared-off lines, and a massive grille, giving it a commanding presence. While its exterior was considered one of the better-looking heavy-duty trucks, the interior left something to be desired. The material quality, especially in top trims, didn't match up to competitors like Ram and Ford, and the cabin wasn't as spacious as those of the Ram 1500 and Ford Super Duty. The Sierra 2500HD was available in five trim levels, each offering a distinct look and feel, with the AT4 trim focusing on off-road capabilities and the Denali trim catering to luxury truck enthusiasts.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota Tacoma offered a more compact and assertive stance, appealing to those who found full-size trucks too large. Available in various trim levels, including the TRD Pro, the Tacoma provided multiple powertrain options and configurations, with a choice between access cab and double cab. The TRD Pro trim, tested in bright Solar Octane paint, featured off-road enhancements like underbody skid pads and a TRD-tuned suspension. Inside, the Tacoma ranged from basic to well-appointed, with the TRD Pro offering Softex leather-trimmed upholstery and heated front seats. However, the Tacoma's interior was criticized for its tight rear seating and outdated steering wheel adjustment.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD was equipped with a powerful 6.6-litre V8 engine, offering 445 horsepower and 910 pound-feet of torque. Despite its impressive specs, it was considered underpowered compared to competitors like the Ford F-250 Super Duty and Ram 2500. The Sierra's Duramax diesel engine, paired with an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission, provided abundant power, making the truck feel quick even when unladen. However, the ride was jittery on uneven pavement, improving with added weight. The AT4 trim excelled in off-road conditions, thanks to its off-road suspension and equipment, although a slight steering column vibration was noted during off-road testing.

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma, on the other hand, featured a standard 3.5-litre V6 engine with 278 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. While more satisfying than the lower-level four-cylinder engine, the V6 didn't make the Tacoma a quick truck. It required significant throttle input to reach highway speeds, and wind and engine noise were noticeable at higher speeds. The TRD Pro's off-road suspension handled city streets well but resulted in vague steering and a tendency to wander on paved roads. Fuel economy was a concern, with the TRD Pro delivering 14.4 L/100 km in winter conditions, higher than expected for a midsize pickup.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD offered three cab configurations, two bed lengths, and available 4WD, making it a highly functional truck. It could seat up to six passengers, with abundant space in both front and rear seats. However, getting into the truck required effort due to its height, especially with the AT4 package. The interior featured ample storage, including a wide centre console, dual glove boxes, and hidden rear seat compartments. The MultiPro tailgate, available on higher trims, provided six functions to improve cargo box access, and the truck offered multiple power outlets for convenience.

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma provided various configuration choices, with the access cab featuring clamshell-style doors and a long bed, while the double cab offered a choice between long and short beds. The access cab's rear seats were tight and uncomfortable, making the double cab a better option for carrying passengers. The front seats offered decent space, but the steering wheel's limited extension posed challenges for tall drivers. The Tacoma's bed, even in the short version, was spacious enough for gear and equipment, making it practical for outdoor activities.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD featured a range of infotainment systems, with either a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard on SLT and above, with navigation available on higher trims. The Bose premium audio system provided rich sound, although the voice-recognition system occasionally delivered odd results. The Sierra's 15 available camera views, including a "transparent trailer" view, enhanced safety and convenience, making it easier to hook up trailers and monitor surroundings.

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma, while not class-leading in technology, offered an intuitive interface with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim. It included Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Tacoma's infotainment system was simple but outdated, lacking some of the advanced features found in competitors. The premium JBL audio system and USB ports provided decent audio quality, but the Tacoma's tech offerings fell short compared to rivals like the Chevrolet Colorado and Honda Ridgeline.

The 2022 GMC Sierra 2500HD came with a range of safety and driver-assistive features, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision alert, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Teen Driver system was standard, allowing parents to monitor their teen's driving habits. However, due to its high GVWR, the Sierra 2500HD was not rated by NHTSA or IIHS, and its mass posed risks to smaller vehicles and pedestrians.

The 2023 Toyota Tacoma featured Toyota Safety Sense, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. The TRD Pro added blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera. However, the Tacoma lacked some advanced safety features found in other Toyotas, such as lane-keeping assist. It received four out of five stars in NHTSA crash tests, missing top marks in frontal crash and rollover tests.