Edmunds Likes Tundra Long Term

Posted by Jason in October 1st, 2008

Posted in: Toyota Tundra Reviews and Comparisons

We’re not sure why, but the reviewers at Consumer Reports, Car and Driver, and Edmunds.com don’t seem to know very much about pickups. It’s not because they don’t like our favorite truck – the Tundra always does well enough – it’s just that all the reviews have some variation of this complaint:

The truck is too big. Wah. It’s hard for us to park. Boo-hoo. We don’t like the fact that it rides and handles like a truck. Sniff sniff.

No kidding? You found the “truck-like qualities” of the truck you tested to be a little uncomfortable? Go figure.

They must not be truck people.

Anyone else think this cute widdle guy works for Edmunds.com?

Take this Edmunds.com Toyota Tundra long-term test update. The Tundra enjoyed quite a few compliments – such as:

“It earns the right to be called a real truck with its hard-working capability…”
“…we found the Toyota to be more than capable…I can assure you that the engine is nearly flawless. As smooth as Camry’s V6 and never at a loss for power, the Tundra’s 5.7-liter engine is a refined beast that has no equal in the segment.”
“…the Tundra makes for an excellent truck whether you’re towing a load or just tooling around town…”
“Six speeds ensure there is never a flat spot in the power delivery, providing a huge confidence boost when passing slow-moving trucks. Shifts are uncommonly smooth…“

And so on. Here’s what they didn’t like about the Tundra long term:

“…the Tundra has left behind its compact dimensions of the past and embraced life as a full-size American pickup…in doing so it alienates buyers seeking a truck for casual use.“
“The Tundra’s work-duty chassis and suspension also produce a rougher ride than some competitors“
“In tight quarters it takes considerable practice to master this truck…”
“Toyota has finally delivered what even the skeptics would agree is a real full-size truck. But it does so at the expense of the casual truck crowd.“

Here’s a question for Edmunds.com: Who, exactly, is the “casual truck crowd” and why would they consider buying a new Tundra in the first place? Doesn’t the “casual truck buyer” buy a small truck like a Tacoma?

Here’s one more: Do you know what the *hell* you’re talking about over there?

The criticisms that Edmunds.com leveled at the Tundra are non-starters. If you’re in the market for a Tundra, you’re looking for a big-time pickup. Big-time pickup drivers don’t need a truck that’s “easy to park” or that “rides nice” – they need something that will get there work done.

Edmunds.com is like “baby bear” – the old Tundra was too soft, and the new Tundra is too firm, so maybe the baby Tundra (the Tacoma) would be just right.

Next:Dodge Selling The Viper To Highest Bidder

18 comments

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Ingle Said in October 1st, 2008 @9:39 pm

Amen Sir.

Marc Said in October 2nd, 2008 @2:44 pm

If it makes us feel more “manly” to drive a truck that rides just like traditional trucks have for decades, than so be it – but I think it’s just plain ridiculous.

I think manufacturers can build strong trucks and improve the ride. Toyota has certainly surpassed traditional trucks by adding safety features unheard of just a few years ago like side curtain air-bags and traction control.

Let’s challenge them to build a more practical truck for those of us (perhaps 80% of all truck buyers) who don’t need absurd towing and hauling capabilities that are only used to superficially brag to others.

TXTee Said in October 2nd, 2008 @8:24 pm

These reviewers are silly. I love when I pull my long bed into a parking spot marked “Compact”, hop out, and hit the alarm as I walk away smiling at the Prius on the left and the Civic on the right.

Tom Said in October 3rd, 2008 @8:14 am

These dipsticks don’t have a clue! Let TRUCK guys do TRUCK reviews and stick to kia and saturn, vehicles that they know. Truck is too stiff? Thats like complaining Ferrari is too fast in 0-60.

admin (Jason) Said in October 7th, 2008 @7:22 am

Marc – I like what you’re saying, but it seems like a fundamental conflict. Ride, or payload? I don’t think you can have one without sacrificing the other. Still, it IS possible. I just wish the car reviewers would discuss it in a more reasonable light.

admin (Jason) Said in October 7th, 2008 @7:24 am

Ingle, TXTee, and Tom – Word. That’s what we’re saying!

Bill Said in November 2nd, 2008 @4:15 pm

My Tundra does as advertised , and that’s why I bought it . It’s roomy , powerful , full of safety features and was a deal I could not pass up .
On a side note , Jason where’s my sticker ? The one’s you were having made up and sent to people that were featured here ?

This is mine http://www.tundraheadquarters......mment-3570

Thanks , Bill

admin (Jason) Said in November 3rd, 2008 @10:06 am

Bill – My mistake. I had the stickers designed but I haven’t had them printed yet. Once I return to the USA I’ll get it handled…once I finally do get it done I’ll owe you. Please accept my apologies.

Mickey Said in November 3rd, 2008 @6:29 pm

My truck rides quite well. I have the others (Ford, Chevy) give their nose up to my ride and then I lower my back window, open sunroof, then all four other windows and ask can the domestic do that? I use my truck as a truck. What really gets me is those lincoln trucks and Harley Davidson trucks they don’t dare to use as a truck. Did I mention they wasn’t the best looking vehicle out there.

Dan Said in May 13th, 2009 @6:50 pm

Good job guys! I have the others (Ford, Chevy) give their nose up to my ride and then I lower my back window, open sunroof, then all four other windows and ask can the domestic do that? I use my truck as a truck sitting in Wal-Mart parking lot while I was waiting on a tow truck. Mickey stop being Jealous you can buy a American Truck to. Funny thing is I was towing my boat last weekend with a Tundra behind me with a smaller boat. Well with cruise control set he was tailgating on the downhill and flat. But the funny thing is he was no where to be seen when there was a truck passing lane on the hills. At the Ramp i asked him if he wanted to go first incase he needed help getting up the ramp. He didnt think it was funny!! I was being sincre. It turns out the rear window that rolls all the way down is to exit the vehicle when it is at the very bottom of the ramp, right Mickey. Jokes everyone has them, just about all of them start with “Nice Trundra, does your wife know your driving it?”

Mickey Said in May 14th, 2009 @1:03 pm

Made in Mexico or in Canada isn’t my thing Dan. Mines states made in America. More than I can say for your Big 1. Jealousy gets you no where Dan. You just wish you had a back glass that moved. Instead you have this pitiful little window that opens up like a drive through at Taco Bell. You want Hot or Mild sauce with that pitiful truck you have.

Dan Said in May 14th, 2009 @7:49 pm

Why does everyone that owns a Tundra want to race at every light? Why are they immature? Did you get picked on in school? When did all this get so personel? Just a Bully picking on the little kids, grow up. I just point out the true fact of what I have seen. You want to tow buy a diesel, proven fact! You want a daily driver soccormom vehicle, pickup milk on the way home, buy a Half-ton. Im glad you have a Tundra, you fit the profile.

Mickey Said in May 15th, 2009 @7:21 am

Dan you’re the one with a problem here. For one I don’t race. I get the most mpg’s out of my truck. I tow a boat thank you like most Americans will not buy a diesel just to tow a small boat. I guess it’s okay for you to be sarcastic and no one else? Get over it. You came here to website and throw out your trash and expect nothing said to you. If you don’t like what’s being said by all means use another website for your tantrums.

Dan Said in May 16th, 2009 @6:21 am

Did you know that Ford is #1 in all results for being American Built, so there why is Tundra #4.

Cars.com’s American-Made Index rates vehicles built and bought in the U.S. Factors include sales, where the car’s parts are made and whether the car is assembled in the U.S. Models that have been discontinued are disqualified, as are those with a domestic-parts content rating below 75 percent.
1. F-150
2. Cobalt
3. Silverado
4. Tundra

So “You want Hot or Mild sauce with that pitiful truck you have.”

Oh here is somthing I found that I just have to tell you about. RUST ISSUE!! So far 2000-2002 Tundra’s have reported problems. What do you think you have, the future will tell (I will laugh till I cry)??? A rust bucket, literally. Dont you already have rust issue on the chrome??? What do you think the future holds??????

Dont be mad that Ford stands behind their product and has confidence in the American man to MAKE THEIR PAYMENTS for 12 months up to $700.00 a month. You would be one of those lazy guys who would try to abuse this. Whats that convert to in YEN Mickey?? Ford as americian as apple-pie. Tundra, got any YEN, hows that American. Enjoy your half American grocery getter, ask your wife or husband before take it!

Dan Said in May 16th, 2009 @6:23 am

Let it go Mickey. I have the others (Ford, Chevy) give their nose up to my ride and then I lower my back window, open sunroof, then all four other windows and ask can the domestic do that? Can your IMPORT make your payment for a YEAR???

Dan Said in May 16th, 2009 @5:57 pm

Serious note. How owns this plant?? “New United Motor Manufacturing, Inc. is an automobile manufacturing plant in Fremont, California. The factory was a General Motors plant opened in 1962 and now represents a joint venture between GM and Toyota. When it reopened for production in 1984, it was the first automotive joint venture plant in the United States. GM saw this joint venture as an opportunity to learn about the ideas of lean manufacturing from the Japanese company, while Toyota gained its first manufacturing base in North America and a chance to implement its production system in an American labor environment. As of December of 2008, the NUMMI plant produces the Toyota Corolla compact car, Toyota Tacoma pickup truck, and the Pontiac Vibe hatchback. In the past, it produced the Chevrolet Nova (1984-1988); the Geo Prizm (1990-1997), and the Chevrolet Prizm (1998-2002), as well as the Toyota Voltz, the Japanese right-hand drive version of the Pontiac Vibe – both are based on the Toyota Matrix, which is also manufactured in Cambridge, Ontario, Canada along with the Toyota Corolla. Employment is nearly 5,500 workers. NUMMI employees are represented by The International, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW) Local 2244. NUMMI sells 60% of its parts to Toyota and 40% to General Motors.” If GM goes under, what happens to the 40% of parts for Toyota. Do the doors shut?? See the fall of the BIG 3 will effect much more than anyone ever thought!

admin (Jason) Said in May 17th, 2009 @1:14 pm

Dan – You’re all over the board. First you say that “You want a daily driver soccormom vehicle, pickup milk on the way home, buy a Half-ton”, then you point out stats that show the F150 (a half ton) is the most American truck, followed by the Silverado and the Tundra. Question: I don’t see the F-Series SuperDuty in the top 4, does that mean the Tundra is more American than the truck you choose to drive?
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For the record, I like the Ford diesel and I think it’s a great tow vehicle. Good choice. Please note that I don’t go to the Ford diesel enthusiast site that you frequent and piss all over your truck. Why you have to come here and piss on the Tundra is beyond me. What any of this has to do with the Edmunds Long Term report of the Tundra is REALLY beyond me. Why are you here?
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As for NUMMI, I don’t know. I would guess that since Toyota is the one making the most vehicles at NUMMI, they’re probably going to take it over if and/or when GM files for bankruptcy.

Mickey Said in May 17th, 2009 @7:44 pm

Dan to start off with your company is a copycat. Period nothing else but taking Hyundai who had this out since the economy was going into the dump. To better you Ford didn’t come out with the 12 month deal right away so again nice try. In fact Chevy beat Ford to that punch with the 12 month period. Down here where I’m at yes Toyota started that too. I’m not into some company buying my vehicle. Thank you… Now get your facts straight if you want to bash the Tundra. I don’t like apple pie so I don’t care for Ford much less GM. Unlike you I gave them a shot and both blew it. I moved on to what works. Unlike you again I just don’t buy a product for just loyalty even when it doesn’t work you go ahead keep buying it. Support them because they need all the help they can. Dan I can sit here all day and list the problems your vehicle has (had) if you want. 2 come to mind real fast. ROLLOVER KING and ohh hell my garage is on fire because my cruise control burnt up on my truck. As much as you want to blame Firestone your SUV’s are notorious for rollovers period. Who can you blame for your cruise control? Should I mention GM blunders? Have fun Dan and type away, apparently one of us is totally satisfied with what we have. I have piece of mind now Dan how about you?