I like the ZR2, especially in diesel.
If you mean “weak AF” as in controlling the mid size market, then you are on point.
Tacomas do what they do very well. No other midsize truck offers the same level of reliability, capability and fun that the Tacos do.
ZR2 is valiant effort, but no dice.
Gladiator is now the new contender, tho.
That Gladiator is looking special. I'll definitely check one out when they come out.
Of course "capability" and "fun" are subjective opinions... just like "looks"--where the zr2 crushes the Taco IMO. Reliability is probably a toss up at this point. 15 years ago, Toyota hands Chevy it's ass. Not today.
Then you have the ZR2's DSSV shocks--game changers in the off road scene. You have the diesel, you have the nicer interior vs the Taco.
The Tacoma is a great truck, but just doesn't compare to some of the newer offerings.