The Toyota Tacoma is a popular mid-size pickup truck that has been in production since 1995. One of the decisions that buyers have to make when purchasing a Tacoma is whether to go with the long bed or the short bed. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and how the truck will be used.
The long bed Tacoma measures 6.1 feet in length, while the short bed comes in at 5 feet. The longer bed provides more cargo space and can be useful for hauling larger items, while the shorter bed is more maneuverable and easier to park in tight spaces. Additionally, the long bed has a higher payload capacity, which can be important for those who need to carry heavy loads. However, the shorter bed is more nimble and easier to handle on the road, making it a better choice for those who will be using their truck primarily for commuting or light-duty work.
Toyota Tacoma Overview
The Toyota Tacoma is a midsize pickup truck available in various body styles, cab configurations, and bed lengths. It is a versatile truck that can be used for both work and play. The Tacoma is known for its reliability, durability, and off-road capabilities.
Short Bed
The short bed configuration of the Toyota Tacoma is 5.1-ft long. It is a good option for those who do not need a lot of cargo space but still want the versatility of a pickup truck. The short bed is also a good option for those who plan to use their truck for off-roading, as it has a shorter wheelbase and is more maneuverable.
Long Bed
The long bed configuration of the Toyota Tacoma is 6.1-ft long. It is a good option for those who need more cargo space and plan to use their truck for work purposes. The long bed is also a good option for those who plan to use their truck for camping or other outdoor activities, as it provides more space for gear and equipment.
When choosing between the short bed and long bed configurations of the Toyota Tacoma, it is important to consider your specific needs and how you plan to use your truck. The short bed is a good option for those who do not need a lot of cargo space and plan to use their truck for off-roading. The long bed is a good option for those who need more cargo space and plan to use their truck for work or outdoor activities.
Dimensional Differences
The most significant difference between the Toyota Tacoma Long Bed and Short Bed is the length of the cargo area. The Long Bed is typically around six feet in length, while the Short Bed is around five feet in length. However, the width and height of both beds remain the same.
Here are the specific dimensions for both beds:
- Tacoma Long Bed (LB): 73.7 inches or 6 feet long, 41.5 inches wide, 19.1 inches high.
- Tacoma Short Bed (SB): 60.5 inches or 5 feet long, 41.5 inches wide, 19.1 inches high.
It’s worth noting that Toyota offers two cab trim options for the Tacoma. The access cab option fits up to four passengers, while the double cab trim seats up to five passengers.
The Long Bed is an excellent option for those who need extra cargo space. It’s perfect for hauling large items like furniture, building materials, and equipment. The Short Bed, on the other hand, is more maneuverable and easier to park in tight spaces. It’s a great option for those who use their truck for commuting or light-duty tasks.
Overall, the choice between the Long Bed and Short Bed comes down to personal preference and specific needs. Those who need more cargo space should opt for the Long Bed, while those who prioritize maneuverability and ease of use should choose the Short Bed.
Payload Capacity
When it comes to choosing between the Toyota Tacoma Long Bed and Short Bed, payload capacity is an important factor to consider. The payload capacity is the maximum weight that the truck can carry, including passengers, cargo, and any accessories. Here is a breakdown of the payload capacity for both the Long Bed and Short Bed configurations:
Long Bed Payload Capacity
The Long Bed configuration of the Toyota Tacoma has a higher payload capacity than the Short Bed. With a payload capacity of up to 1,620 lbs, the Long Bed can carry more weight than the Short Bed. This makes it a better option for those who need to carry heavy cargo or equipment.
Short Bed Payload Capacity
The Short Bed configuration of the Toyota Tacoma has a slightly lower payload capacity than the Long Bed. With a payload capacity of up to 1,440 lbs, the Short Bed is still capable of carrying a significant amount of weight. It is a good option for those who do not need to carry as much cargo or equipment.
Payload Capacity Comparison
Here is a side-by-side comparison of the payload capacity for both the Long Bed and Short Bed configurations:
| Configuration | Payload Capacity |
|---|---|
| Long Bed | Up to 1,620 lbs |
| Short Bed | Up to 1,440 lbs |
Overall, the Long Bed configuration of the Toyota Tacoma has a higher payload capacity than the Short Bed. However, both configurations are capable of carrying a significant amount of weight, so the choice ultimately depends on the individual’s specific needs.
Towing Capacity
The Toyota Tacoma is a popular midsize pickup truck that comes in both short bed and long bed configurations. When it comes to towing capacity, the Tacoma is a capable vehicle that can handle a range of loads, depending on the specific model and configuration.
The 2023 Toyota Tacoma’s maximum tow ratings range from 3,500 pounds to 6,800 pounds, depending on the truck specifications. The 4-Cylinder engine trims have significantly less towing power than the larger V6 engine. If you plan on towing a trailer that exceeds 1,000 pounds, it must have its own brake system.
When it comes to choosing between a long bed and a short bed, the towing capacity is not affected by the bed length. Both configurations have the same maximum towing capacity. However, the bed length can affect the payload capacity of the vehicle.
The payload capacity is the maximum weight that the vehicle can carry in the bed and cab. The longer bed of the Tacoma Long Bed configuration can accommodate more cargo, which can reduce the payload capacity. On the other hand, the shorter bed of the Tacoma Short Bed configuration can provide more room for passengers and cargo inside the cab, which can increase the payload capacity.
In summary, the towing capacity of the Toyota Tacoma is not affected by the bed length. However, the payload capacity can be affected by the bed length and the amount of cargo that needs to be carried. It’s important to choose the right configuration based on your specific needs and intended use of the vehicle.
Fuel Efficiency
When comparing the fuel efficiency of the Toyota Tacoma Long Bed and Short Bed, it is important to note that both models have similar EPA ratings. The Long Bed and Short Bed both have a combined fuel economy rating of 20 mpg. However, it is important to note that the fuel efficiency can vary based on the driving conditions and driving habits of the driver.
The Toyota Tacoma Long Bed and Short Bed both have a 21-gallon fuel tank, which means that both models have a similar driving range. The Long Bed and Short Bed can both travel up to 420 miles on a full tank of gas.
It is important to note that the fuel efficiency of the Toyota Tacoma can be affected by several factors, including driving habits, weather conditions, and cargo load. Drivers can improve their fuel efficiency by following some simple tips, such as reducing their speed, avoiding rapid acceleration and hard braking, and keeping the tires properly inflated.
Overall, when it comes to fuel efficiency, the Toyota Tacoma Long Bed and Short Bed are fairly similar. Drivers can expect to get around 20 mpg combined, regardless of which model they choose. However, it is important to keep in mind that fuel efficiency can vary based on driving conditions and habits, and that there are steps drivers can take to improve their fuel efficiency.
Driving Experience
When it comes to the driving experience, the Toyota Tacoma Long Bed and Short Bed offer similar performance on the road. Both versions are equipped with the same engine options, which include a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine and a 3.5-liter V6 engine. The engines are paired with either a six-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission, depending on the model.
The Long Bed version of the Tacoma is slightly longer than the Short Bed version, which can affect the turning radius. However, the difference is minimal, and both versions handle well on the road. The Tacoma also offers a smooth and comfortable ride, thanks to its suspension system.
One advantage of the Long Bed version is its larger cargo space, which allows for more storage and hauling capacity. This makes it a great choice for those who need to transport larger items on a regular basis. However, the larger size of the Long Bed can make it more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
On the other hand, the Short Bed version of the Tacoma is a great option for those who prioritize maneuverability over cargo space. It has a smaller turning radius, which makes it easier to navigate in tight spaces. It’s also a great option for those who don’t need to haul larger items on a regular basis.
Overall, both the Toyota Tacoma Long Bed and Short Bed offer a reliable and enjoyable driving experience. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific needs.
Price Comparison
When it comes to buying a Toyota Tacoma, the price difference between the long bed and short bed variants is an important factor to consider. The long bed is generally more expensive than the short bed due to its larger size and increased capacity.
According to Toyota’s official website, the starting price for a 2023 Tacoma short bed is around $26,000, while the long bed starts at around $29,000. However, the final price may vary depending on the chosen trim level, additional features, and any applicable taxes or fees.
It’s worth noting that the price difference between the two variants may not be significant for some buyers. If you don’t need the extra cargo space provided by the long bed, the short bed could be a more cost-effective option.
Additionally, it’s important to consider the potential resale value of the vehicle. In general, the long bed variant tends to hold its value better than the short bed due to its increased capacity and versatility. This could be an important consideration for buyers who plan to sell their vehicle in the future.
Overall, the price difference between the Toyota Tacoma long bed and short bed is something that buyers should carefully consider when making their decision. While the long bed may be more expensive, it could provide greater value in the long run for those who need the extra cargo space and versatility.
Pros and Cons
When deciding between a Toyota Tacoma long bed vs short bed, it is important to consider the pros and cons of each option. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of both:
Short Bed Advantages and Disadvantages
The Toyota Tacoma short bed is 5.1 feet long, making it a good choice for those who do not need to transport large items regularly. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of a short bed:
Advantages
- Easier to maneuver: With a shorter length, the short bed is easier to maneuver and park in tight spaces.
- Better fuel economy: Since the short bed is lighter than the long bed, it can provide better fuel economy.
- More affordable: Short bed Tacomas are generally less expensive than their long bed counterparts.
Disadvantages
- Limited cargo space: The short bed has less cargo space, making it less suitable for those who need to regularly transport large items.
- Less stability: Due to the shorter length, the short bed can be less stable when hauling heavy loads.
Long Bed Advantages and Disadvantages
The Toyota Tacoma long bed is 6.1 feet long, providing ample space for larger items. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of a long bed:
Advantages
- More cargo space: With a longer length, the long bed offers more cargo space, making it a better choice for those who need to transport larger items regularly.
- More stability: Due to the longer length, the long bed can provide more stability when hauling heavy loads.
Disadvantages
- Harder to maneuver: The longer length of the long bed can make it harder to maneuver and park in tight spaces.
- Lower fuel economy: Since the long bed is heavier than the short bed, it can provide lower fuel economy.
- More expensive: Long bed Tacomas are generally more expensive than their short bed counterparts.
Overall, the choice between a Toyota Tacoma long bed vs short bed depends on individual needs and preferences. Those who need to transport larger items regularly may prefer the long bed, while those who prioritize maneuverability and affordability may prefer the short bed.
Buyer Considerations
When considering whether to purchase a Toyota Tacoma with a long bed or short bed, there are several important factors to keep in mind. Here are some key considerations for potential buyers:
Intended Use
The primary consideration when choosing between a long bed and short bed Tacoma is the intended use of the vehicle. If the truck will primarily be used for hauling large items, such as furniture or appliances, a long bed may be the better choice. The longer bed provides more space and can accommodate larger items more easily. However, if the truck will primarily be used for daily driving or hauling smaller items, a short bed may be more practical.
Maneuverability
Another important factor to consider is maneuverability. A long bed Tacoma can be more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, such as parking lots or narrow streets. If the truck will be used primarily in urban areas, a short bed may be a better choice. Short bed Tacomas are typically easier to park and navigate in tight spaces.
Payload Capacity
Payload capacity is another important consideration when choosing between a long bed and short bed Tacoma. Long bed Tacomas generally have a higher payload capacity than short bed models, due to their larger size and extended chassis. If the truck will be used for heavy hauling or towing, a long bed Tacoma may be the better choice.
Price
Price is always a consideration when purchasing a vehicle, and the price difference between a long bed and short bed Tacoma can be significant. Long bed models are typically more expensive than short bed models, due to their larger size and increased payload capacity. Buyers should consider their budget and intended use of the vehicle when deciding which model to purchase.
Overall, the choice between a long bed and short bed Tacoma comes down to personal preference and intended use. Buyers should consider their specific needs and budget when making their decision.
Final Thoughts
When deciding between the Toyota Tacoma Long Bed and Short Bed, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what the truck will be used for. Here are some key takeaways to consider:
- The Long Bed is ideal for those who need to haul larger items such as furniture or construction materials. It provides an additional 13.7 inches of cargo space compared to the Short Bed.
- The Short Bed is more maneuverable and easier to park in tight spaces. It’s also a better option for off-roading and navigating rough terrain.
- Both bed options are available in various cab configurations, so it’s important to consider how many passengers will be riding in the truck and their comfort level.
It’s worth noting that the Tacoma is known for its reliability and durability, so whichever bed option is chosen, it’s likely to be a solid investment. Additionally, the Tacoma has a high resale value, making it a smart choice for those who may want to sell or trade in their vehicle in the future.
Overall, the decision between the Toyota Tacoma Long Bed and Short Bed ultimately depends on the individual’s specific needs and preferences. With its reputation for quality and versatility, the Tacoma is a great choice for those in the market for a mid-size pickup truck.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the length of the long bed on a Toyota Tacoma?
The long bed on a Toyota Tacoma is 6.1 feet long, which is 73.7 inches.
How does the ride of a long bed truck compare to a short bed?
The ride of a long bed truck is generally smoother than a short bed truck due to the longer wheelbase. This results in better stability and less bouncing on uneven roads.
Are there any differences in ride quality between the short and long bed Tacomas?
Yes, there are differences in ride quality between the short and long bed Tacomas. The long bed Tacomas have a smoother ride due to the longer wheelbase, while the short bed Tacomas have a stiffer ride due to the shorter wheelbase.
What is the length of the short bed on a Toyota Tacoma?
The short bed on a Toyota Tacoma is 5.1 feet long, which is 61.8 inches.
Can you fit more cargo in a long bed Tacoma compared to a short bed?
Yes, you can fit more cargo in a long bed Tacoma compared to a short bed. The long bed has an extra 12 inches of length, which can make a significant difference when it comes to hauling larger items.
What is the total length of a Toyota Tacoma with a crew cab and long bed?
The total length of a Toyota Tacoma with a crew cab and long bed is 225.5 inches. This includes the length of the truck bed and the cab.