Comparing the 2025 Toyota Tacoma to the 2020 Tacoma: What’s New, What’s Changed?

The Toyota Tacoma has long been one of Canada’s most trusted midsize pickups, with a reputation for rugged dependability and off-road capability. Now, with the arrival of the completely redesigned 4^th generation Tacoma last year, buyers considering a used 2020 or late third-generation model, or those thinking of upgrading, have a lot to compare.

This comparison article breaks down the key differences in powertrains, features, capacities, dimensions, and standard equipment to help you make an informed decision.

Powertrains: Turbocharged vs. Naturally Aspirated

The biggest change under the hood is Toyota moving away from the 3.5L V6 that powered the 2020 Tacoma. In its place, the 2025 model adopts a more modern and efficient 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine.

In base form (i-FORCE), the 2025 Tacoma matches the old V6’s 278 horsepower but boosts the 4-pot’s torque jumps significantly to 317 lb-ft when paired with the automatic transmission. A 6-speed manual is still available with slightly less output. The biggest performance jump comes from the i-FORCE MAX hybrid system, which delivers 326 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque—far surpassing anything offered in 2020, or at any point since the Taco first appeared in 1995.

Should You Buy a 2019 Toyota Tacoma?

The older V6, by comparison, made 265 lb-ft of torque and lacked the low-end grunt that newer turbocharged engines provide. While the 2020 Tacoma was reliable and proven, the 2025 model offers more power, flexibility, and efficiency. Long-term durability and reliability remain to be proven.

Despite the drop in displacement and cylinders, the i-Force engine has no real impact on fuel consumption. With the automatic transmission, it returns an average of 12.4 / 10.2 / 11.8  (CITY/HWY/COMB) in L/100 KM compared to 12.7 / 10.6 / 11.7 for the V6.

Chassis and Ride Quality

Another major improvement is found in the suspension. The 2020 Tacoma used a traditional rear leaf spring setup, durable but firm. For 2025, Toyota has replaced this with a multi-link coil spring rear suspension, which improves ride quality without compromising off-road performance.

The new model’s TRD Off-Road trims gain upgraded Bilstein shocks with remote reservoirs, replacing the previous FOX shocks. The stabilizer disconnect and more articulation also make it a more capable off-roader straight from the factory.

Dimensions

Both trucks offer similar body configurations (Double Cab with 5- or 6-foot beds), but the 2025 Tacoma grows slightly in width and height. Ground clearance and approach angles are also improved for better trail performance.

Exterior (Double Cab):

Capacities

The 2025 Tacoma improves in payload while maintaining nearly the same maximum towing capacity. The new hybrid variant offers extreme towing torque, even if the overall max figure remains similar to the 2020 truck.

Features and Equipment

Both models come standard with driver assistance features under the Toyota Safety Sense banner. However, the 2025 Tacoma now benefits from Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes more refined adaptive cruise control, lane tracing assist, and improved object detection.

Technology has also been updated. The 2020 Tacoma offered a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the 2025 model expands those features with larger screens, up to 14 inches, more customizable digital displays, and over-the-air software updates in some trims.

Interior materials are improved in the newer model, and the available hybrid variant adds push-button start, digital gauge clusters, and additional convenience features across the lineup.

Final Thoughts

The 2020 Tacoma remains a solid midsize truck, particularly for buyers who prioritize simplicity, proven mechanicals, and traditional V6 power. However, the 2025 Tacoma moves the nameplate forward in key areas—powertrain versatility, suspension refinement, interior comfort, and safety tech.

The Toyota Tacoma long ago stopped being an affordable “small” pickup. In 2020, the base SR was priced from $37,450 (2019 being the last year of the 2WD version). Today, for a base 2025 Tacoma SR5 4×4 Double Cab 8A, buyers need to shell out $48,320 to START! That’s a 22.5% increase! The good news is that all Tacoma generations retain a substantial resale value. The fourth generation should do the same if the powertrains prove to be reliable.