2009 Toyota Tundra

Vehicle Overview

Toyota went for the jugular in the 2007 model year when it introduced the second-generation Tundra. It sported the most powerful V-8 engine of any mainstream half-ton truck — exceeded only by the special edition GMC Sierra Denali — and all cab/bed configurations could be equipped to tow at least 10,000 pounds.

The truck featured imposing size and styling to avoid any memories of the first-generation Tundra, which was referred to by many critics as a seven-eighths-scale truck. The Tundra comes in two- or four-wheel drive, and in three cab styles: Regular Cab, Quad Cab and CrewMax. The CrewMax is a few inches longer than most crew cabs, but it's not as big as Dodge's Mega Cab. The CrewMax comes only with a 5-foot, 6-inch bed, while other versions can be ordered with either a 6-foot, 6-inch or an 8-foot cargo bed. Trim levels include Tundra Grade, SR5 and Limited.

New for 2009

Toyota added flex-fuel capability to the 5.7-liter V-8 Tundra sold in select regions, including the Midwest, where most E85 stations are located. Toyota is also releasing two TRD option packages designed for off-roaders and street enthusiasts. The TRD Rock Warrior adds 17-inch alloy wheels, BFGoodrich all-terrain tires, Bilstein shock absorbers, a color-keyed front bumper and grille surround, bedside decals, and special interior trim. The TRD Sport also goes with a color-keyed appearance, 20-inch alloy wheels and interior upgrades. The Rock Warrior package is available on Tundra Grade Double Cab and CrewMax four-wheel-drive models with the 5.7-liter V-8 engine. The Sport package is available on Tundra Grade Regular Cab and Double Cab two-wheel-drive models equipped with a standard bed and 5.7-liter engine.

Exterior

Toyota made sure this Tundra wouldn't have sand kicked in its face by designing a big, brawny pickup that looks like it could bully any truck on the market — at least from the front. A massive three-bar grille, sculptured hood and husky bumper present an intimidating head-on view. From the side, the Tundra is rather conventional. A deck-rail adjustable tie-down system is available for all cargo beds.

• Tailgate assist
• Telescoping tow mirrors available
• Available moonroof on CrewMax
• TRD Rock Warrior available only in Black or Super White exterior finish
• TRD Sport available only in Black or Radiant Red

Interior

The Tundra's interior is designed to appeal to and accommodate working people. The control knobs are easy to grip, even in work gloves, and the gauges are easy to read at a glance. There are plenty of storage options, especially with a center console that can hold a laptop and hanging files. Even the Regular Cab has enough room behind the seats to hold five-gallon paint buckets. The Tundra Limited lacks some of the essence of luxury found in the new Dodge and Ford trucks, but the seats are wide, supportive and comfortable, and the ride is especially quiet. The available JBL sound system (standard in Limited versions) and DVD navigation system are particularly appealing, with 440 watts and 10 speakers (12 in the CrewMax).

• Power vertical-sliding rear window in CrewMax
• Available rear-seat DVD entertainment system
• TRD Rock Warrior, Sport packages include black cloth interior and pedal covers
• Three 12-volt power outlets in CrewMax and Double Cab

Under the Hood

• 236-horsepower, 4.0-liter V-6 with aluminum block/cylinder heads, dual overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder makes 266 pounds-feet of torque
• 276-hp, 4.7-liter V-8 with iron block/aluminum cylinder heads, dual overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder makes 313 pounds-feet of torque
• 381-hp, 5.7-liter V-8 with aluminum block/cylinder heads, dual overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder makes 401 pounds-feet of torque
• Five-speed automatic transmission (standard with V-6 and 4.7-liter V-8)
• Six-speed automatic (standard with 5.7-liter V-8)

Safety

Toyota emphasizes safety with a suite of electronic braking technologies that help drivers avoid accidents. All are tied into the antilock braking system, including traction control, brake assist and electronic stability control. Toyota also has electronic brake-force distribution, which adjusts braking pressure according to cargo load. The Tundra doesn't hold back on airbags, with front seat-mounted side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags standard on all versions.

• Front and rear sonar parking aids
• Available backup camera
• Three-point seat belts at all positions

Of Interest to Truck Owners

• Maximum gross vehicle weight rating: 7,000-7,200 pounds (CrewMax 4x4)
• Maximum payload capacity: 1,990 pounds (Regular Cab 4x2)
• Maximum towing capacity: 10,800 pounds (Regular Cab 4x2)
• Fuel capacity: 26.4 gallons
• Axle ratio: 3.90:1, 4.10:1, 4.30:1
• Transfer case low range: 2.618:1
• Crawl ratio: 37.52:1 (6A w/4.30:1 axle)
• Minimum ground clearance: 10-10.2 inches (4x2); 10.4-10.6 inches (4x4)
• Approach angle: 27-29 degrees
• Departure angle: 24-27 degrees
• Cargo floor length: 66.7 inches (CrewMax); 78.7 inches (standard bed); 97.6 inches (long bed)
• Cargo floor width: 66.4 inches
• Cargo floor width at wheel well: 50 inches
• Cargo bed depth: 22.2 inches