The latest Tundra is powerful, quick, and roomy, and an improvement over its predecessor.
But it hasn't made any big gains compared with its competitors in terms of handling, fuel economy, or storage innovations.
The turbocharged V6 is offered in 358-hp and 389-hp versions; the V6 hybrid puts out 437 hp.
All are paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic.
The 389-hp engine that we tested is quite punchy, but fuel economy of 17 mpg overall isn't stellar.
The ride is relatively refined, but handling is rather clumsy.
The cabin is very roomy and is available with a huge 14-inch infotainment touchscreen.
Maximum tow capacity is 12,000 pounds with a stout payload of 1,940 pounds.
The bed is made of dent- and corrosion-resistant composite material.
BSW and RCTW are optional.
The redesigned 2022 Toyota Tundra has new powertrains and coil springs for the rear suspension, generous towing capacity, a rich roster of safety features, and a contemporary multimedia system.
The Tundra gives up its V8 engine and can be configured with a choice of two twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engines: a 389-hp standard engine (358 for the SR trim) and a 437-hp hybrid.
Both engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Maximum tow capacity is 12,000 pounds, with maximum payload now 1,940 pounds.
The bed is made of dent-resistant composite material.
The Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 suite is standard on every Tundra trim level, with FCW, AEB with pedestrian warning, LDW, LCA, ACC, and rear seat reminder.
Toyota tried hard to crack the full-size truck code with their second-generation Tundra, introduced in 2007.
Unlike the original, this Texas-built version is sized on par with 1/2-ton domestic competition and offers similar towing and payload capabilities.
Three different cab sizes and three different bed lengths are available.
Our favorite engine choice is the rewardingly powerful 5.7-liter V8; thus equipped, the Tundra can tow around 10,000 pounds.
Mated with a smooth and responsive six-speed automatic, we measured a competitive 15 mpg from this engine.
Smaller available V6 and V8 engines are also smooth, but are less powerful.
Off-road capability is impressive, but the four-wheel-drive system is part-time only.
Handling is secure but there is no denying this is a big truck.
Stability control is standard.
Ironically, given the demure Tundras that preceded it, this generation lacks the refinement of many of the domestic competitors, which tend to be quieter and ride better.
The ride in TRD-equipped Tundras is particularly stiff.
Inside, there is plenty of room and supportive seats, but it can be a reach to the otherwise simple-to-use controls.
Nice touches include a tilt-and-telescoping steering column, rare among trucks, and an easy-to-lift tailgate.
While domestic trucks have received several updates, changes to the Tundra since its introduction have been minor, making later years feel somewhat dated.
Probably the biggest Tundra advantage is the consistent superior reliability over the domestic rivals.
The 2018 model receives the Toyota Safety Sense-P (TSS-P) as standard equipment on all trim lines.
It includes forward-collision warning with automatic braking and pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
Other 2018 updates include an new trim level, called called TRD Sport.
Available on four- and two-wheel drive models, the added equipment includes stiffer suspension, 20-inch wheels, LED headlights, and various "TRD" badging.
We regarded the 2000 model year Tundra as an excellent pickup truck.
It's comfortable, quiet, handles relatively well and has a super smooth powertrain.
Toyota's pickup also tows and hauls convincingly.
The IIHS says the Tundra is also capable of good offset-crash-test results, which is a considerable plus.
A crew cab with optional stability control was added to the lineup for the 2004 model year.
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