There’s no denying that the 2021 Toyota Tundra has a lot to offer. It’s capable, reliable, and comes standard with some rather appealing ownership perks. But does that make the Toyota Tundra a better pickup than the Ford F-150? Let’s find out.

This year’s Tundra comes standard with a V8 engine under the hood

At the heart and soul of the 2021 Toyota Tundra is a 381-hp 5.7-liter V8 engine. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the Tundra’s base engine is quicker than that of the F-150’s. Which unlike this year’s new Toyota Tundra, comes driven by a 3.3-liter V6 engine.

But there is some bad news when it comes to the Tundra’s standard V8 engine. As it turns out, that is the only engine option this year’s model offers. So if you’re not interested in a pickup that comes standard with a V8 engine under the hood? Then the 2021 Toyota Tundra may not be the best fit for you.

The 2021 Toyota Tundra is more reliable than the Ford F-150

Now, the 2021 Toyota Tundra really has the edge when it comes to reliability. According to Consumer Reports, this year’s model earned a four out of five predicted reliability rating. That score is pretty on par with previous model years too. Several Tundra model years earned either a four or five out of five reliability rating from Consumer Reports. 

As for the 2021 Ford F-150? Well, its reliability ratings aren’t nearly as impressive. The 2021 Ford F-150 earned a two out of five predicted reliability rating from Consumer Reports. The 2020 Ford F-150 earned a dismal one out of five reliability rating. And the year before that? Consumer Reports gave the F-150 a disappointing three out of five reliability rating. 

Enjoy complimentary maintenance for two years if you choose the 2021 Toyota Tundra

Unlike the 2021 Ford F-150, this year’s Tundra comes standard with some pretty appealing ownership perks. All Tundra models come standard with ToyotaCare, a complimentary maintenance plan that covers normal factory scheduled service for two years or 25,000-miles, whichever comes first. It also includes 24-hour roadside assistance for two years, unlimited mileage.

Unfortunately for F-150 buyers, this year’s model doesn’t come standard with complimentary maintenance. So when it comes time to change the oil? Well, you’ll be responsible for picking up the bill yourself.

Should you choose the Tundra over the 2021 Ford F-150?

Here’s the thing, the Toyota Tundra does have the edge over the Ford F-150 in a few key areas. It’s more reliable than its Ford competition, comes standard with a V8 engine under the hood, and is standard with two years of complimentary maintenance. But does that make it a better pickup than the 2021 Ford F-150? Not necessarily. 

Unlike the Toyota Tundra, this year’s new Ford F-150 can tow a pretty impressive amount. According to CarEdge, it also holds its value better than the Toyota Tundra. So before choosing between these two pickups? We recommend figuring out what type of pickup you’re actually in the market for. Are you looking for a pickup that offers some attractive ownership perks? Or would you rather a pickup that boasts best-in-class available tow ratings?