The Ford F-Series has been a top contender in the pickup wars for over half a century. Even well into its fourteenth generation, it still gives buyers a nearly infinite number of ways to customize their ride. Find out how it competes with the equally popular Toyota Tundra. Will it steal your heart?
Key Takeaways:
- Both pickup lineups have only minor changes for 2026.
- The F-Series gives you a plethora of engine choices, while the Tundra sticks with just one motor.
- The F-150 out-muscles every other pickup in its class for max towing capacity.
Comparing Changes in the 2026 Ford F-150 vs. Toyota Tundra
Changes are minimal in both lineups this year. Ford ditches Avalanche and Darkened Bronze colors, replacing them with Space White Metallic and Marsh Grey. On higher-end models, the factory keyless entry keypad is now a dealer-installed option for a cleaner look. Ford also updates its BlueCruise software, making hands-free highway driving almost intuitive.
The Tundra is now standard with a tow hitch featuring a 7/4-pin trailer harness and 32.2-gallon gas tank. The mid-level Limited model gets leather seats, and the double-cab versions now feature rear console AC vents so backseat passengers will be a lot more comfortable.
The F-150 Is All About Powertrain Choices
Ford's engine lineup gives you plenty of choices. No matter which motor you pick, it mates with a 10-speed automatic transmission and your choice of rear- or four-wheel drive.
- 2.7L twin-turbo V6: 325 hp, 400 lb-ft (19 city / 25 highway)
- 5.0L V8: 400 hp, 410 lb-ft (16 city / 24 highway)
- 3.5L twin-turbo V6: 400 hp, 500 lb-ft (18 city / 24 highway)
- 3.5L twin-turbo V6 (Raptor): 450 hp, 510 lb-ft (14 city / 18 highway)
- 3.5L hybrid V6: 430 hp, 570 lb-ft (25 city / 26 highway)
- 5.2L supercharged V8 (Raptor R): 700 hp, 640 lb-ft (10 city / 15 highway)
The Tundra keeps things simple with a single 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 setup. The base SR trim gives you 348 horsepower, while the upper tiers get a bump to 389 horsepower. Just like the Ford, it utilizes a 10-speed automatic with either RWD or 4WD.
Powertrains, Towing and Cargo
| 2026 Ford F-150 |
2026 Toyota Tundra |
| Turbocharged 2.7L EcoBoost V65.0L naturally aspirated V83.5L twin-turbo V6 (also with Raptor-specific tuning) 3.5L PowerBoost hybrid V6 5.2L supercharged V8 (Raptor R) |
3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 |
| 10-speed automatic |
10-speed automatic |
| RWD; 4WD |
RWD; 4WD |
| 13,500-pound towing capacity/3,250-pound cargo capacity |
12,000-pound towing capacity/1,940-pound cargo capacity |
Which Is the Best Full-Size Pickup for Towing and Hauling?
If you need to haul heavy loads, the F-150 is one serious workhorse. If you configure a SuperCrew cab with the 3.5-liter V6, FWD, and a 6.5-foot bed, your towing capacity maxes out at 13,500 pounds. As for cargo, the RWD Regular Cab paired with an 8-foot bed can handle a 2,445-pound payload.
The Tundra's towing tops out at 12,000 pounds when properly equipped, and its payload numbers max out at 1,940 pounds. That puts it well behind Ford's ultimate 3,250-pound capability limit.
Deciding Between the F-150 and Tundra for the Jobsite
At the end of the day, you know exactly what you're getting with the F-150--a reliable truck that's built to handle hard work. If you're ready to jump in the driver's seat and try it out, get in touch with our dealership team today at Banner Ford of Monroe to set up a test drive!