By Mike Levine
PickupTrucks.com June 4, 2009Vehicle Overview
Toyota went for the jugular in the 2007 model year when it introduced the second-generation Tundra. It sported a powerful 5.7-liter V-8 engine and six-speed automatic, and all cab/bed configurations could be equipped to tow at least 10,000 pounds.
Today, the Tundra faces much stiffer competition from Chevrolet, Dodge, GMC and Ford half-ton pickups, all of which have been updated or revised with new powertrains and features in the past year.
The Tundra comes in two- or four-wheel drive, and in three cab styles: regular cab, Double Cab and CrewMax. The CrewMax is the largest cab in the half-ton segment since Chrysler discontinued the Mega Cab option for the Dodge Ram 1500 last year. The CrewMax comes only with a 5-foot, 6-inch bed, while other versions can be ordered with either a 6-foot, 6-inch bed, or an 8-foot cargo bed. Trim levels include Tundra, SR5 and Limited.
New for 2010
Toyota's new 310-horsepower, 4.6-liter i-Force V-8 makes 327 pounds-feet of torque. It's smaller than the 276-hp, 4.7-liter V-8 with 313 pounds-feet of torque that it replaces, but it's also stronger, lighter and more efficient. It's also about 100 pounds lighter than the 4.7-liter.
Tundra models are split into two classes: Tundra Grade and Limited Grade. Tundra Grade models sport a new two-bar front grille and revised taillamps, while Limited models wear a billet-style grille. A redesigned seven-pin towing hitch connector now sits above the hitch to help avoid damage and dirt. Also, a shelf to help organize storage space has been added to the lower glove box.
The new Tundra Grade Work Truck Package is aimed at commercial buyers. It's an entry-level model available in only regular or Double Cab configurations, with vinyl seating and rubber floors. It's priced up to $1,030 less than the truck's standard MSRP. At the high end of the spectrum is the new Platinum Package option for Limited Tundras equipped with the 5.7-liter V-8. It includes heated and ventilated seats, a sunroof and wood-grain trim.
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. The massive 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.
Interior
The Tundra's interior is designed to accommodate working people. The control knobs are easy to grip, even in work gloves, and the gauges are easy to read at a glance but placed at the end of long barrels in the dash. There are plenty of storage options, especially with a center console that can hold a laptop and hanging files. Even the regular cab Tundra has enough room behind the seats to hold five-gallon paint buckets. The seats are wide, supportive and comfortable. The new Platinum Package adds luxury touches that until now were only available in trucks like high-end Ford F-150s.
Under the Hood
- 236-hp, 4.0-liter V-6 with aluminum block and cylinder heads, dual overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder, with 266 pounds-feet of torque
- 310-hp, 4.6-liter V-8 with aluminum block and two-alloy cylinder heads, dual overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder, with 327 pounds-feet of torque
- 381-hp, 5.7-liter V-8 with aluminum block and cylinder heads, dual overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder, with 401 pounds-feet of torque
- Five-speed automatic transmission (standard with V-6)
- Six-speed automatic (standard with 4.6-liter V-8 or 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. They include 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 side-impact airbags in front 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: 2,000 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
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| Mike Levine | PickupTrucks.com | June 4, 2009 |
| Mike Levine | PickupTrucks.com | April 10, 2009 |
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