The Toyota Tundra is one full-size, powerful truck. A 5.7 L i-Force DOHC V8 with Dual Independent VVT-i delivers 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. A 6-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift attached to this strength-filled engine delivers 18 mpg on the highway, which computes to a driving range of 570 miles on a full tank. This powertrain provides enough muscle to tow up to 10,500 pounds or haul up to 1,895 pounds.
This Tundra comes with Trailer Swing Control. When it senses a sudden sideways movement of the trailer, it can automatically reduce engine power and apply brake pressure to each individual wheel to stabilize the truck. Brake lights are also illuminated so folks behind can be alerted. Speaking of brakes, Tundra has the largest in-class front brakes equipped with four-piston calipers.
You will find a premium style inside, laden with items like heated and ventilated perforated leather-trimmed seats with 12-way power and memory. Soft-touch materials make for a big, comfortable fit.
In addition to 12-way power adjustable driver’s seat, the test vehicle has a power thigh and lumbar support. This allows the driver to extend or lower seat cushions for better comfort and support.
The 1794 CrewMax offers a spacious wood-style trimmed cabin featuring exclusive brown leather seating, plus Entune Premium JBL Audio with Integrated Navigation and App Suite as the command center which keeps you connected anywhere. Add the standard Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Backup Camera, the sum equals to a full-size truck offering comfort, luxury, and technology.
Some of the aforementioned safety features are part of the Toyota Star Safety System. Smart Stop Technology (SST) should also be mentioned. At speeds greater than five mph, when the accelerator is depressed first, and the brake is then applied for longer than one-half second, SST reduces engine power to help bring the vehicle to a stop.
Unlike the normal fold-flat back seats, the 60/40 split rear “jump seats” flip up instead, to provide more cargo space and make it easy to load. A convenient storage area is underneath the armrest. It is large enough for files or a small computer.
Large buttons and knobs are easy to find. Dual-zone climate control helps to keep all the occupants comfortable. A 7-inch touchscreen display for the nav system occupies the center console, which also houses Bluetooth, AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA player, HD Radio, and SiriusXM Satellite Radio.
Outside, 20-inch alloy wheels, chrome grille and gunmetal gray lower front bumper with chrome endcaps, and LED daytime running lights announce to all that this is one big, bad truck.
The Easy Lower & Lift Tailgate opens and closes with just two fingers. Plus it can be easily removed for easy loading, and locked to secure cargo. Tie-down cleats accompany the deck rails system. Each cleat is fully adjustable as it slides along the deck rails system, and anchored to assure what is placed in the bed stays in the bed.
Tundra is large, quiet and with gifted technology and features close to the driver, making it fun to drive. Although the Tundra is big (79.9-inches wide and 228.9-inches long) it still has a superb turning radius. Parking and backing up are quickly accomplished.
So whether you are taking the Tundra out for work or play, you will feel good about what you are doing and look forward to every driving experience.
Base price is $49,098. There are also several optional accessories under $100, such as alloy-wheel locks, spare tire lock, and center console storage tray. Your Tundra can come with TRD Performance Dual Exhaust for an additional $1,100.
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or at [email protected]
