When it comes to trucks, there are loyal enthusiasts in every corner. Some prefer the Chevrolet Silverado, while others refuse to buy anything but a Ram. But it’s understood and generally accepted that the Ford F-150 is America’s best-selling pickup, spanning decades. 

When new pickups enter the market, automakers know they have to be able to compete with the big three American contenders. And some have had success, including the Toyota Tundra. But in the end, the Tundra has shown that being more expensive than the almighty Ford F-150 isn’t a good path to success.

Ford still makes America’s favorite truck

Considering the Ford F-150 has been America’s best-selling truck for several decades, it is a tall order to try and dethrone the blue oval. And even more exciting is its redesign for 2021 and the newly available hybrid powertrain option.

There is also an available onboard generator, a new infotainment system, and jaw-dropping towing capacity. There are loads of engine configurations, too, making this 14th generation F-150 a heavyweight in the running.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra has a high starting price

Competing truck makers, like Toyota, know they have to bring their A-game in terms of features, engine options, and capabilities. But the one area most seem to struggle with is price.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra starts at $33,675 and can start at up to $48,895 for higher-level trims. For comparison, Ford’s most basic F-150 trims start at around $29,000. This is a pretty steep price difference considering how similar these trucks seem. Though there are a few reasons for the higher starting price.

For one thing the Tundra comes standard with a V8 engine, the same thing can’t be said for Ford. Naturally a bigger engine is going to drive up the price of a vehicle. The base level F-150 is for the regular-cab model, this model can only seat up to three people, while the base Tundra has seating for 6.

If you’re looking for a barebones truck, this where the F-150 shine.

Where the 2021 Ford F-150 dominates the Toyota Tundra

Comparing the 2021 Ford F-150 to the 2021 Toyota Tundra, it’s clear which truck brings more to the table. Both offer a variety of different trims and options. But the Ford F-150 offers an unmatched menu of options and packages that make configuring your preferences within budget a breeze.

The Tundra has some options, but it falls short in amenities and features when you compare it to the F-150. The Tundra certainly can’t compete with that base price.

The F-150 even landed on Motor Trend’s list of cheapest new trucks this year, demonstrating that Ford knows how to pack the truck and keep it affordable.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra can’t compete in capability

The Ford F-150 can’t be beaten in any of its six powertrain options. The PowerBoost hybrid is new this year, which is a gamechanger for many consumers. But when it comes to capability, for work or play, the F-150 is unrivaled again.

Towing capacity ranges alone are worth noting with the Ford’s 5,000 to 11,300 pounds. The Tundra’s towing capacity range is around 8,800 to 10,200 pounds. 

The Ford F-150 continues to be America’s favorite truck because the company continues to innovate without exorbitant pricing. For others like the Toyota Tundra, competing could mean improving without charging more than the competition.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra isn’t a bad truck and might be a perfect fit for what you need. But in the big picture landscape of truck capability and performance, it’s clear the 2021 Ford F-150 came to dominate again this year.