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Best Toyota Pickup Truck

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The Ultimate Guide to the Best Toyota Pickup Truck in 2025

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Shopping for a 2026 model? This page covers the 2025 model year. For current prices and rankings, see 2026 Toyota Tacoma vs Ford Ranger: Full Midsize Truck Comparison and Verdict.

Toyota sells two pickups in the US for 2025. Whether you need the massive towing capacity of the Tundra, the off-road agility of the Tacoma, or the efficiency of the rumored Stout, there is a perfect option. This guide breaks down every model. As a result, you will easily find the right truck for your needs.

Quick answer: Toyota sells two pickup trucks in the US for 2025. The midsize Tacoma starts at $31,590 (MSRP excluding delivery) with up to 326 hp, 6,500 lbs of towing and 1,705 lbs of payload. The full-size Tundra offers up to 437 hp, 12,000 lbs of towing and 1,940 lbs of payload, per Toyota’s 2025 press releases.

Finding the best Toyota pickup truck starts with understanding your specific needs. There are many options on the market today. However, one brand consistently stands out above the rest. 

Toyota builds trucks that last for decades. They are tough, reliable, and retain their value. Most importantly, they offer a driving experience like no other. Searching for the best Toyota pickup truck can be overwhelming, but we are here to help. Therefore, we will explore every 2025 model in great detail to help you decide.

This guide is designed for everyone. Specifically, it does not matter if you haul heavy loads daily. On the other hand, perhaps you enjoy weekend off-road adventures. In other words, we have you covered. 

We will look at the massive full-size trucks. We will also examine the agile midsize options. , we will discuss the exciting rumors about new Toyota pickup trucks like the Stout.

So, let’s get started.

Toyota Pickup Truck Models: The Full List

Toyota sells two pickup truck models in the US for 2025. Here is the complete Toyota pickup models list, including the trucks you may have heard of that are not sold here:

  • Toyota Tacoma (midsize pickup): 2.4L turbo four or i-FORCE MAX hybrid, 228 to 326 hp, up to 6,500 lbs of towing, from $31,590 (SR, MSRP excluding destination).
  • Toyota Tundra (full-size pickup): 3.4L twin-turbo V6 or i-FORCE MAX hybrid, 348 to 437 hp, up to 12,000 lbs of towing, from about $40,000.
  • Toyota Hilux (midsize, global markets only): not sold in the US.
  • Toyota Stout (compact): rumored only; Toyota has not confirmed it.

So if you are comparing Toyota truck models for a US purchase, the real choice is Tacoma or Tundra. Full details on each follow below.

Fourth-generation Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road, the midsize Toyota pickup truck sold for 2024 and 2025
Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road (2024-present). Photo: Alexander-93, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Toyota Pickup Truck 2025 Lineup at a Glance

If you are searching for a Toyota pickup truck for 2025, these are the two models you can actually order at a US dealer, with the figures Toyota published for the 2025 model year:

2025 modelMax horsepowerMax towingMax payloadBest for
Tacoma (i-FORCE 2.4L turbo / i-FORCE MAX hybrid)278 hp / 326 hp6,500 lbs1,705 lbsOff-road, daily driving, lower price
Tundra (i-FORCE twin-turbo V6 / i-FORCE MAX hybrid)389 hp / 437 hp12,000 lbs1,940 lbsHeavy towing, work, full-size cabin

The Tacoma figure of 278 hp is the best version of the standard 2.4L turbo; lower grades are rated below that, which is why the full list above starts at 228 hp. Toyota says the i-FORCE MAX Tacoma reaches an EPA-estimated 24 mpg combined. For what changes next, see our 2027 Toyota Tacoma preview, and for every other Toyota model, our Toyota reviews hub.

Why Choose a Toyota Truck in 2025?

First, let’s talk about reliability. Toyota trucks are legendary for a reason. They run for hundreds of thousands of miles without major issues. For example, you often see old Tacomas still driving on the road today. This is not an accident. 

To clarify, Toyota engineers them to be incredibly tough. Ultimately, owning the best Toyota pickup truck means having peace of mind on every journey.

Secondly, they have exceptional resale value. If you buy a best selling pickup truck in America, you want it to be worth something later. Toyota trucks keep their price high. Therefore, selling one later is very easy.

Why Choose a Toyota Truck in 2025

Thirdly, the technology is amazing. The 2025 Toyota pickup trucks have advanced hybrid engines. They feature massive touchscreens. They also include top-tier safety features. As a result, you remain safe and comfortable at all times.

Above all, there is a perfect truck for every driver. You have the powerful Tundra. You have the versatile Tacoma. You might even see a Toyota Stout pickup truck very soon. In short, the options are plentiful.

Third-generation Toyota Tundra Limited CrewMax 4x4, the same generation as the 2025 Tundra
Toyota Tundra CrewMax (2022-present generation). Photo: MercurySable99, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

The Heavy Hitter: 2025 Toyota Tundra

If you need raw power, you need the Tundra. This is the big boss of the lineup. It is a full-size truck. It competes directly with the Ford F-150. However, the Tundra does things differently.

Power and Performance

The 2025 Tundra does not use a V8 engine. Instead, it uses a sophisticated twin-turbo V6. Some people were worried about this change. But, they should not be concerned. This engine is a beast. It produces massive torque.

In addition, there is a powerful hybrid version. It is called the i-FORCE MAX. This system adds an electric motor to the mix. As a result, you get significantly more power. You also get better gas mileage. It is a win-win situation for any driver.

Toyota rates the standard i-FORCE twin-turbo V6 at 389 hp and 479 lb-ft (lower on the base SR) and the i-FORCE MAX hybrid at 437 hp and 583 lb-ft. To see how it stacks up against a key full-size rival, read our 2026 Ram 1500 vs Toyota Tundra comparison.

Toyota Pickup Truck Towing Capacity

This is a big question for truck owners. How much can it actually pull? The Toyota pickup truck towing capacity for the Tundra is impressive. It can tow up to 12,000 pounds.

To clarify, that is a large boat. That is a heavy camper. You can haul almost anything you need. However, you need the right hitch setup. You also need the correct trim level. But, for most people, 12,000 pounds is plenty.

The Tundra is not a Toyota dually pickup truck. Toyota does not make a factory dually model yet. A dually has four rear wheels. Heavy-duty trucks usually have them. The Tundra has two rear wheels. But, it is still very strong and capable.

Is It the Best?

For heavy work, yes. The Tundra is the best Toyota pickup truck if you tow often. It is big. It is comfortable. It is powerful.

Best Toyota Truck for Work

For work use, the numbers that matter are payload and towing. Toyota lists the 2025 Tundra at a maximum of 12,000 lbs of towing and 1,940 lbs of payload, against 6,500 lbs and 1,705 lbs for the 2025 Tacoma. That makes the Tundra the best Toyota truck for work that involves heavy trailers, equipment or a full crew. The Tacoma’s maximum payload is close to the Tundra’s, so for a contractor who mostly carries tools and materials in the bed and tows light trailers, the smaller truck can do the job for less money. Exact ratings depend on cab, bed, drivetrain and grade, so check the door-jamb label of the specific truck. Our Tundra body styles guide explains the cab and bed choices.

The Off-Road King: 2025 Toyota Tacoma

Next, we have the Tacoma. This is a midsize truck. It is smaller than the Tundra. However, it is incredibly popular. In fact, it has long been one of the top-selling midsize pickups in America.

New Design for 2025

The fourth-generation Tacoma debuted for 2024 and carries into 2025 with minor updates. It looks aggressive. It looks tough. It features a new high-strength steel frame. Therefore, it drives much better than the previous generation.

The engine is also completely new. It is a 2.4-liter turbo. It is small but mighty. There is also a hybrid version available. This hybrid powertrain gives you 326 horsepower. That is a lot for a truck of this size.

Going Off-Road

The Tacoma is famous for off-roading. The TRD Pro model is truly amazing. It has special internal bypass shocks. It has big, knobby tires. It has heavy armor under the body.

As a result, you can go anywhere. You can climb steep rocks. You can drive through deep mud. If you love outdoor adventure, this is your truck.

Toyota Small Pickup Truck?

Is the Tacoma a Toyota small pickup truck? Not really anymore. It has grown over the years. It is now a true midsize truck. It is almost as big as older full-size trucks.

If you want a truly small truck, you have to wait. We will discuss the Toyota mini pickup trucks later. But for now, the Tacoma is the smallest option you can buy today.

The Global Legend: Toyota Hilux Pickup Truck

You might have heard of the Hilux. It is world-famous. It is known as the unkillable truck. However, you cannot buy it in the USA.

Why is it Forbidden?

There is a tax called the Chicken Tax. It makes importing light trucks very expensive. Therefore, Toyota does not sell the Toyota Hilux pickup truck in America. Instead, they sell the Tacoma.

Hilux vs. Tacoma

The Hilux is a workhorse. It is simpler in design. It often has a diesel engine. It is built to carry heavy loads in rough places.

On the other hand, the Tacoma is more comfortable. It rides smoother on pavement. It has more technology inside. The Tacoma is better for American highways. Meanwhile, the Hilux is better for the Australian outback.

But, people still love the Hilux. They love its toughness. If you live outside the US, the Hilux might be the best Toyota pickup truck for you.

What Is the Best Toyota Hilux?

There is no single best Toyota Hilux, because specs and grades vary by country. Outside the US, a double-cab 4×4 Hilux with a diesel engine is a common choice for heavy loads and rough roads, but the grades and engines on offer differ by country. For US buyers, the nearest equivalent is the Tacoma: Toyota says the current Tacoma’s narrow body and wide upper grille are a nod to the original HiLux.

The Rumored Return: Toyota Stout Pickup Truck

This is where things get exciting. Everyone is talking about new Toyota pickup trucks. There is a big rumor circulating about the Stout.

The Rumored Return -Toyota Stout Pickup Truck

What is the Stout?

The Stout was an old Toyota truck model. It was sold a long time ago. Now, rumors say it is finally coming back.

Why is this happening? Because of the Ford Maverick. The Ford Maverick is a small truck. It is very popular. It is cheap. Toyota wants to compete in this space.

For a closer look at the compact hybrid pickup a Stout would have to beat, see our 2026 Ford Maverick Hybrid review.

Comparison to Competition

The Toyota Stout pickup truck would be a compact truck. It would be smaller than the Tacoma. It would likely use a car frame. This architecture is called a unibody.

As a result, it would drive like a car. It would get great gas mileage. It would be perfect for city driving.

Expected Features

Many expect it to be a hybrid, since Toyota sells hybrids across its lineup. A Stout Hybrid could save you money on gas.

It would also be very affordable. We hope it will be one of the cheap Toyota pickup trucks. Toyota has not announced any price.

The Wild Card: Toyota Corolla Pickup Truck

Wait, a Corolla truck? Yes, you heard that right. There are rumors about a Toyota Corolla pickup truck.

Based on the Corolla Cross

Toyota makes a crossover version of the Corolla. It is called the Corolla Cross. It is a compact SUV.

Engineers could cut the back roof off. They could add a small bed. Then, you would have a Corolla pickup.

Why Make It?

People want small trucks. They want Toyota mini pickup trucks. A Corolla truck would be extremely reliable. It would be highly efficient.

It would not tow a boat. It would not haul tons of rocks. But, it would carry bikes. It would carry camping gear. For many people, that is enough utility.

Like the Stout, this is just a rumor. But, it is a fun idea. It shows that Toyota is thinking about new things.

Finding Cheap Toyota Pickup Trucks

Trucks are expensive these days. Prices have gone up significantly. How do you find cheap Toyota pickup trucks in 2025?

Stick to the Basics

Look for the base models. The SR and SR5 trims are good choices. They have fewer luxury features. But, they have the same strong engine. They have the same strong frame.

You do not need leather seats. You do not need a giant sunroof. By skipping these extras, you save thousands of dollars. Even a lower trim can serve as the best Toyota pickup truck for your daily needs.

Consider Used

Since Toyota trucks last forever, buying used is smart. A 2020 Tacoma is still a great truck. It will run for many years.

However, used prices are high. Sometimes, a new truck is a better deal. You get a full warranty. You get better financing rates. Even a pre-owned model can often be the best Toyota pickup truck for your budget.

Wait for the Stout

If you can wait, the Stout might be the answer. If it arrives, it would likely sit below the Tacoma in size and price. Toyota has not confirmed it.

2025 Toyota Pickup Truck Models Compared

Let’s look at the numbers. Seeing them side-by-side helps make a decision. Here is a table of the 2025 lineup.

Quick Comparison Table

FeatureToyota Tacoma (2025)Toyota Tundra (2025)Toyota Stout (Rumored)
ClassMidsize PickupFull-Size PickupCompact Pickup
Engine2.4L Turbo / Hybrid3.4L Twin-Turbo V6 / HybridNot announced
Horsepower228 – 326 hp348 – 437 hpNot announced
TowingUp to 6,500 lbsUp to 12,000 lbsNot announced
EPA MPG (best)21 City / 26 Hwy20 City / 24 Hwy (Hybrid 2WD)Not announced
Starting Price$31,590~$40,000Not announced
Best ForOff-road, Daily UseHeavy Towing, FamilyCity, Efficiency

This table clearly shows the differences. The Tundra is the strongest. The Tacoma is the balanced choice. The Stout is the efficiency king.

Which One Should You Buy?

We have looked at the data. We have seen the specs. Now, you must decide which is the best Toyota pickup truck for you.

Choose the Tundra If…

  • You have a big boat.
  • You have a large travel trailer.
  • You need space for 5 adults.
  • You want luxury features.

The Tundra is big. It is comfortable. But, it is hard to park. It uses more gas.

Choose the Tacoma If…

  • You drive in the city often.
  • You go off-roading on weekends.
  • You want a truck that looks cool.
  • You have a smaller garage.

The Tacoma is versatile. It can do almost anything. It is the best Toyota pickup truck for most people.

Wait for the Stout If…

  • You are on a tight budget.
  • You want high gas mileage.
  • You only carry light loads.
  • You live in a crowded city.

If Toyota confirms the Stout, it would bring the brand back to the compact pickup market.

5 Best Toyota Trucks Ever Made

Searches for the best Toyota truck of all time usually mean the models that built the brand’s reputation. Based on Toyota’s own history material and the current specs, these five stand out:

  • Original Toyota HiLux. Toyota still points to it in today’s Tacoma styling, and when it marked 60 years in the US it rededicated a company time capsule that holds an original key for a 1977 Toyota Hilux truck.
  • First-generation Tacoma (1995.5 to 2001). Toyota’s newsroom archive lists the first Tacoma from the 1995.5 model year. It began the run that turned the Tacoma into the country’s best-selling midsize pickup for two decades.
  • First-generation Tundra (2000 to 2006). Toyota calls the Tundra the first full-size pickup built by a Japanese automaker in North America. Production began in May 1999 in Indiana before moving to San Antonio, Texas, in 2008.
  • Current Tacoma (2024 to date). All-new for 2024 on the TNGA-F truck platform, with up to 326 hp from the i-FORCE MAX hybrid and up to 6,500 lbs of towing.
  • Current Tundra i-FORCE MAX. The most powerful Toyota pickup sold in the US, at 437 hp and 583 lb-ft; Toyota rates the 2025 Tundra line for up to 12,000 lbs of towing.

If you also want a body-on-frame Toyota with a bed but have not settled on a classic pickup, our look at the 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser pickup covers that idea.

Maintenance and Reliability

Owning a truck is a commitment. You must take care of it properly. To keep your vehicle running as the best Toyota pickup truck on the road, consistent maintenance is key.

Toyota Pickup Truck - Maintenance and Reliability

Regular Oil Changes

This is vital for longevity. Change your oil every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. Clean oil keeps the engine happy.

Check the Tires

Trucks are heavy vehicles. They wear out tires quickly. Rotate them often. This helps them last longer.

Watch the Rust

If you live in snowy areas, wash your truck. Salt causes rust. Rust kills trucks. Keep the undercarriage clean.

Toyota frames are better now. But, they still need care. A little effort goes a long way.

The Future of Toyota Trucks

What is coming next? The world is changing rapidly. Electric trucks are coming.

Electric Options

Toyota is careful. They do not rush into trends. But, they are working on electric trucks. We might see an electric Tacoma soon.

We might see a hydrogen Tundra. Toyota has long invested in hydrogen fuel cells. No hydrogen Tundra has been announced.

More Hybrids

For now, hybrids are the focus. They are practical. They do not need charging stations. They save gas today.

Every 2025 Toyota pickup truck has a hybrid option. This is a smart move. It gives power and efficiency.

Conclusion

The bottom line, Toyota offers an amazing lineup. You simply cannot go wrong with any choice.

The Tundra is a powerhouse. It tows heavy loads with ease. The Tacoma is an adventurer. It conquers trails and city streets alike. , the rumors of the Stout and Toyota Corolla pickup truck show a bright future.

To sum up, the best Toyota pickup truck depends on you. Assess your needs carefully. Check your budget. Test drive the toyota pickup truck models.

Toyota builds trucks to last. They build them to work hard. Whether you choose the massive Tundra or the agile Tacoma, you are making a solid investment. The 2025 models are better than ever.

FAQs

Related guides: our full truck lineup coverage and NHTSA Issues Recall on 2025 Ford F-150: What Owners Must Do.

Which Toyota truck tows the most? 

The 2025 Tundra is the strongest. It can tow up to 12,000 pounds when properly equipped.

Is Toyota bringing back the Stout? 

Toyota has not confirmed it. Rumors point to a compact pickup, possibly hybrid, to compete with the Ford Maverick.

What is the cheapest Toyota pickup in 2025? 

The 2025 Tacoma is the most affordable option. It starts at $31,590 (MSRP, excluding destination) for the base SR model.

Can I buy a Toyota Hilux in the USA? 

No. High import taxes make it too expensive to sell here. Toyota offers the Tacoma in the US instead.

Do 2025 Toyota trucks have hybrid engines? 

Yes. Both the Tundra and Tacoma offer powerful i-FORCE MAX hybrid engines for better power and efficiency.

What pickup truck models does Toyota make?

In the US, Toyota makes two pickups: the midsize Tacoma (from $31,590 for 2025) and the full-size Tundra. The Hilux is sold only outside the US, and the compact Stout is a rumor that Toyota has not confirmed.

What is the best Toyota truck?

For most buyers the Tacoma is the best Toyota truck, balancing off-road ability, daily usability and a lower price. If you tow heavy trailers or need full-size cabin space, the Tundra is the better pick, with up to 12,000 lbs of towing and up to 437 hp from the i-FORCE MAX hybrid.

What is the best Toyota truck of all time?

There is no official ranking, but the original HiLux and the first-generation Tacoma, which Toyota’s archive dates from the 1995.5 model year, are common picks. For a new truck, the Tundra i-FORCE MAX is the most powerful Toyota pickup sold in the US, at 437 hp, and the 2025 Tundra tows up to 12,000 lbs.

What is the best Toyota truck for work?

The 2025 Tundra, with up to 12,000 lbs of towing and 1,940 lbs of payload. The 2025 Tacoma suits lighter work, with up to 6,500 lbs of towing and 1,705 lbs of payload, at a lower starting price of $31,590.

What is the best Toyota Hilux?

It depends on the market. Outside the US, a double-cab 4×4 diesel Hilux is a common choice for heavy loads and rough roads. The Hilux is not sold in the US, where the Tacoma takes its place.

Sources

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