The Toyota Tundra constantly faces steep competition from the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, and Chevy Silverado. But the Tundra consistently tops the list in reliability. This includes the 2021 model, which received Consumer Reports’ highest score for predicted reliability. 

Although the Tundra used to lead the pack, the 2021 model struggles to keep up with its competitors’ refinement and technology. Here are some reasons why the Toyota Tundra is the most expensive cheapest truck this year.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra at a glance

All 2021 Toyota Tundra trims come with the same gas engine. It’s a 5.7-liter V8 capable of 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque. The 2021 Tundra can complete the 0-to-60-mph run in 6.7 seconds, according to Consumers Report. Additionally, it comes with a choice of standard rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

As for fuel economy, the 2021 Toyota Tundra gets 15 mpg combined — 13 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the highway. Plus, it offers a competitive maximum towing capacity of 10,000 pounds. And the 2021 Tundra comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, improving its usability and convenience.

You also find an abundance of standard advanced safety features. They include adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and automatic high-beams.

Where the Toyota Tundra impresses most

According to Consumer Reports, one of the 2021 Tundra’s strong points is the powerful 5.7-liter V8 giving it an impressive 0-to-60 mph split and remarkable towing. Moreover, the 2021 Tundra comes standard with various safety features, some of which aren’t standard on its competitors. 

Also, Kelley Blue Book lists the Tundra’s reliability as one of the areas it outshines rivals. Furthermore, standard tech must-haves like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard on the 2021 Tundra. In addition to this, this truck is also praised for its strong resale value. The 2021 Toyota Tundra and Tacoma top the list for resale value.

Where the Tundra falls behind

According to Consumer Reports, the 2021 Tundra has fallen behind its more modern competitors when it comes to sophistication and comfort. The 2021 Tundra also lags in fuel economy because other manufacturers are building increasingly efficient and eco-friendly trucks, including a growing number of electric pickups.

Plus, the 2021 Tundra offers fewer build configurations than its American competitors Ford, Chevy, and Ram. That leads to various other issues, such as limited towing and payload, lack of engine choice, and limited tech features. But the limited number of build configurations is the main reason the 2021 Tundra took the last spot on MotorTrend‘s list of the cheapest 2021 pickups.

How the 2021 Tundra is more expensive than rivals

The Toyota Tundra’s aforementioned single engine is actually great for the base model because it provides more power, speed, and towing capacity than competitors’ base models. But that powerful engine also means the 2021 Tundra’s entry-level trim is more expensive than its rivals.

According to Toyota, the base Tundra costs $33,675 for the extended cab and $35,365 for the crew cab. However, this model is pretty stripped of features, and the higher Limited trim starts at $42,390.

So, would you choose a 2021 Toyota Tundra over an F-150, Silverado, or Ram? If so, why?