The midsize pickup segment is more competitive than ever before. For pickup shoppers, this is pretty good news. But of all the options available, you may be wondering how specific models compare. Fortunately, we’ve got you covered when it comes to comparing the 2021 Jeep Gladiator to the 2021 Toyota Tacoma.

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator is available with a diesel engine

When it comes to what’s under the hood, the 2021 Jeep Gladiator offers two choices. Standard is a 285-hp 3.6-liter V6 engine. Also available is a 260-hp 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 engine that delivers best-in-class torque ratings of up to 442 pound-feet. 

According to Car and Driver, the Gladiator’s available diesel engine is definitely worth checking out too. “Its responses are snappy both around town and at higher speeds, and the transmission does a good job of keeping the V-6 on top of its torque plateau,” Car and Driver reported, adding that this might be “Jeep’s best diesel pickup ever.”

As for the 2021 Toyota Tacoma? Standard under the hood of this year’s model is a 159-hp 2.7-liter engine. Also available is a 278-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine. However, unlike the 2021 Jeep Gladiator, this year’s new Toyota Tacoma isn’t available with a diesel engine.

Here’s which pickup can tow more

If you’re buying a pickup truck, odds are you want it to be able to tow a pretty decent load. Fortunately, both the 2021 Toyota Tacoma and the 2021 Jeep Gladiator can do just that. Unfortunately, one can haul quite a bit more than the other. 

While the gas-powered 2021 Jeep Gladiator can tow up to 7,650 pounds, the Toyota Tacoma can only tow up to 6,800 pounds. The Gladiator doesn’t just offer a better maximum towing capacity either. It also boasts a 1,700-pound payload capacity, which is just a tad bit higher than the Tacoma’s 1,440-pound maximum payload capacity.

The 2021 Jeep Gladiator is the more expensive choice

While the 2021 Jeep Gladiator is able to best its Toyota competition in a few key areas, you can expect to pay a pretty penny for all that brawn. Opt for the base Jeep Gladiator, and you can expect to spend at least $33,565 on it. Begin climbing up the trim levels or adding on people-pleasing features like an available WiFi hotspot, and that price is going to go up.

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma, on the other hand, boasts a base price of $26,150. While opting for a higher trim level and adding on available features will drive up that price, you can expect to spend less on a Toyota Tacoma than you would on the 2021 Jeep Gladiator.

But the 2021 Toyota Tacoma has a better resale value

The 2021 Toyota Tacoma isn’t just cheaper than the 2021 Jeep Gladiator. It also boasts a better resale value than its Jeep competitor. According to CarEdge, the Toyota Tacoma will depreciate 29% after five years. As for the Jeep Gladiator, it will depreciate 40% after five years, reports CarEdge. 

Choosing the right pickup for your needs

It’s not easy deciding which is the best pickup for your needs. But if you’re stuck between these two pickups? If you’re in need of a brawny pickup, then the 2021 Jeep Gladiator may be your best bet. But if you’re looking to save rather than spend? We suggest considering the 2021 Toyota Tacoma instead.