New Toyota Tundra Buyer's Guide

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Buyer's Guide - Part by Part:

MECHANICALS
Brakes
Engines
Transmissions
Dimensions & Volumes
4wd System
Frame
OPTIONS
Trim levels
Cab choices
Beds
Fancy, and not so fancy, options
TUNDRA EXCLUSIVES
TRD Off-road package
Reliability
SAFETY & WARRANTY
Tundra warranty.
Safety ratings.
V.S.C.
ACCESSORIES
Exhaust System Upgrades
Cold Air Intakes
Lift Kits
Tonneau Covers
Popular Toyota Tundra Accessories
SALES DATA
Tundra Sales Figures
Annual Tundra Sales Figures

brakes

The Tundra's brakes are, in a word, excellent. The Tundra has the biggest set of brakes available on a half ton, with massive 13.9" rotors up front and 13.6" rotors in the back. Note that there are rotors in the back - no drum brakes. When the Tundra first came out, these brakes were larger than some 3/4 and 1 ton trucks.

The rotors are paired with a set of dual piston calipers. This setup is more similar to a race-car than any truck that came before it, and that's a good thing. The 2010 F150, for example, uses a smaller rotor (13" in diameter) and only single piston calipers. When tested without a load, the F150 has excellent stopping distance numbers...but what about when the truck is loaded? Larger rotors and dual piston calipers pay off the most when there's a load.

The standard Tundra brakes are power assisted, have 4 wheel ABS, electronic Brake Force Distribution (which compensates for a heavy load by applying more brake power on the wheels that need it), and brake Assist. Brake assist is a clever feature that helps you quickly step on the brake pedal in panic situations (this is especially helpful while towing a heavy trailer).
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engines

While there have been rumors of both a diesel Tundra and a hybrid Tundra, the engine choices for the next two or three years are going to be the 4.0L V6, the 4.6L V8 (new for 2010), and the 5.7L V8.

Before the 2010 Tundra came out, the only engine we recommended was the 5.7L. The 5.7 - matched with a 6 speed automatic and churning out 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque - was the most efficient engine available between 2007 and 2009. It even got better gas mileage than the V6 and 4.7L V8.

However, in 2010, Toyota released their new 4.6L V8, which is a surprisingly powerful engine - 310 hp and 327 lb-ft of torque. Since it's matched up with a six speed similar to the transmission used on the 5.7, the 4.6 gets better gas mileage than the 4.7 it replaced and we are happy to recommend it side-by-side with the 5.7. Either way, you'll be very happy.

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transmissions

Only two, and you really don't have a choice here. The 5spd auto comes standard with the 4.0L V6. The superior six-speed is standard with both the 4.6L and 5.7L V8, and when paired with the 4.6L it's the most fuel efficient Tundra available.

Despite some initial quality issues, the Tundra's 6 speed automatics are consistently praised as the best transmission available in a truck. KBB.com referred to the Tundra's six speed as "smooth and powerful" in a recent test.
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dimensions and volumes

Dimensions:

The biggest Tundra available, surprisingly, is the Double Cab Long Bed 4x4, which is 248 inches long (a little less than 21 feet), about 80 inches wide, and 76.2 inches tall (about 6' 5"). If your garage will hold a DC Long Box, then you're good to go. The CrewMAX 4x4 is only 229 inches long (or 19 feet), with the same width and height. Coincidentally, the Double Cab standard length bed has the same dimensions as the CrewMax.

Volumes:

The Tundra's fuel tank holds 26.4 gallons.
The Tundra uses 5 to 7 quarts of 0W20 oil, depending on the engine (V6 or V8) and whether or not the filter is on.
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4wd system

Toyota's 4wd has always been well-designed. The new Tundra is no different, offering a two-speed transfer case with ratios of 1:1 (4wd hi) and 2.6:1 (4wd lo). The transfer case and all associated drivetrain components are backed by a 5 year 60k mile warranty.
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frame

The Tundra's frame is, in a word, controversial. On one side, we have a series of well-documented issues. Bed bounce and issues with frame rust on first generation Tundras paint a very bad picture.

On the other hand, the Tundra's frame is a great mix of designs. The rails are structurally identical to C-channel frames found on most heavy-duty pickups. The front section of the frame that holds the cab and engine is fully boxed, which helps with controlling noise and limiting flex. The rear leaf springs are mounted trapezoidally to reduce axle hop and improve ride. The tow hitch is intergrated into the frame, and all the crossmembers pass through the rails before being welded. It's a strong setup.

While we can understand Tundra frame skeptics, it's important to remember a couple of things. First, strength and flexibility are different - a frame that has some flexibility isn't necessarily weak. In fact, flexibility means that a frame will bend under heavy stress rather than cracking. Second, don't believe everything you see on YouTube. There are some amazing videos of the Tundra's frame bouncing around like crazy, but those videos were provided by Ford.
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trim levels

The Tundra has three four trim levels: Work truck, Tundra grade, SR5, and Limited. The work truck is a stripped-down, vinyl interior, no frills work truck ideal for fleets. The Tundra grade is a narrow step up from the work truck, yet it still offers A/C and a CD player standard. If you're looking at a double cab or crew, the base model also includes power windows, locks, and keyless entry.
SR5 adds a power driver's seat, 6 disc CD player, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, center and overhead consoles, cruise control, intermittent wipers, and floor carpeting. The Limited package adds the anti-theft system, alloy 18" wheels (instead of steel), some chrome, heated mirrors, rear tinted glass, deck-rail system, front bucket seats, power lumbar and telescoping steering wheel, leather seats, some extra gauges, and automatic temperature control.

The SR5 is a great value - if you don't need (or want) leather, get yourself a nice SR5 with the TRD off-road package and call it good.
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cab choices

The regular cab is the work truck special. It's not too bad though, feels roomy, and there's some good storage behind the seat. Of course, it only seats three.

Next, the double cab (you may know it as extra-cab, extended-cab, or super-cab, depending upon your truck lineage). Amazingly, the double cab is nearly as roomy as the front seats, with only six inches less leg room and a couple inches less shoulder room. If you have children that aren't too big, this would be a good choice. The double cab is definitely big enough for short trips with adults in the back, but it might be best to go with the CrewMAX if you plan on hauling adults and/or going on long trips.

Toyota's CrewMAX is roomier in the rear than in the front, which means passengers will be just as comfortable in the back as anywhere else in the cab. Chauffeur duty anyone?
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beds

There are three bed lengths, but really only two choices. The Tundra regular cab and double cab both offer 6.5' and 8' beds. The CrewMAX has only one bed available, a 5.5 footer. If you choose the CrewMAX, the bed length is chosen for you. So...only two choices.

We suggest you avoid the long bed at all costs unless your use demands it. Typically, long beds depreciate more than regular lengths and they tend to be unwieldy during parking. Of course, if it's going to be a work truck, neither of those concerns are important. One other advantage to choosing a 6.5' bed is the wider availability of aftermarket products (like tonneau covers).
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fancy, and not so fancy, stuff

You know, like the optional DVD based Navigation system with 12 JBL speakers and BlueTooth. Or 20" alloy rims. Or front and rear clearance sonar, which will measure your distance from things while you're parking. All of these things are nice, and we love them, but they're all things we could live without.

We do think the optional upgraded console that can hold files and a laptop is a no-brainer if you're going to work out of your truck. We also like the TRD package for the upgraded wheels and suspension, not to mention higher resale value. The Cold Kit Package also makes a lot of sense for people that live in or near the mountains - the upgraded battery and starter, windshield de-icing, and enhanced rust protection are all great ideas. Finally, there's the memory package that adds memory to your seat, mirrors, and tilt/telescoping steering wheel. Nice if you have a couple of drivers in the house.

slam proof tail-gate

Here's a typical pickup truck owner's experience - you've loaded something in the bed that sticks out over the tailgate. You want to unload it with the tailgate down, but you need an extra hand to hold up the load while simultaneously lowering the tailgate. Often times, the tailgate just drops and slams open.

Toyota designed for this problem by including a gas strut to give the tailgate a soft, slam proof landing when you can't give it one yourself. Additionally, it also acts as a weight assist, making it easier to raise and lower the tailgate when your hands are full. Smart.

back-up camera

Only one word for it - sweet. Integrated into the tailgate handle, this camera will show you where your hitch is in relation to your trailer. Makes hooking up a cinch. If the truck you bought didn't come with the camera, the dealer can install it after the fact. If you have one installed, make sure you get a quote in writing on this first...we've heard some stories of dealers charging more than the factory price for these.
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exhaust system upgrades

The Tundra has a lot of power - especially if you're driving a 5.7L V8. A lot of Tundra owners (indeed, a lot of pickup owners) will replace part of their exhaust system to get more power, better fuel economy, and of course a better sound. We think upgrading the exhaust is a good idea if you're looking for more "cool" factor. As far as adding hp, torque, or improving fuel economy, the factory setup is pretty darn good. Adding a cat-back exhaust might add 10 hp and 10 lb-ft of torque if you're lucky, with perhaps a 1 mpg gas mileage improvement.

Read more about Toyota Tundra exhaust system upgrades and check out our Tundra exhaust sound clips if you're thinking about investing in an exhaust system.
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cold air intake kits

Much like adding an exhaust system, adding a cold air intake to your Tundra is as much about "cool" factor as it is about improving your truck's power or fuel economy. Learn more about Tundra air intake kits.
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lift Kits

There are a wide variety of lift kits available for the Tundra. From a simple leveling kit that will raise the front end of the truck about 2", to a massive 6" stage II kit, you have choices. The key thing to remember before buying a lift kit: You're probably going to want some new wheels and tires if you install one. The factory wheels and tires look a little small when they're under a lifted Tundra.

Learn more about Tundra lift kits.
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tonneau covers

Tonneua covers can be as simple as an inexpensive piece of vinyl that only keeps things dry to a one-piece locking tonneau that turns your pickup bed into a trunk. If you want a tonneau, be sure to consider security and ease of removal before buying. You don't want to invest in the wrong tonneau and see something get stolen and/or never use it because it's too hard to add-on or take off when you need to.

Read some Tundra tonneau cover reviews.
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TRD off-road package

Few factory racing teams have a reputation for off-road performance like TRD. Short for Toyota Racing Development, the TRD package on a new Toyota Tundra includes 18" off-road alloy wheels, 275/65 BF Goodrich AT tires, engine skid plate, front tow hook, and off-road tuned suspension.

Some people say this package makes the truck ride rougher than a regular Tundra, but we think these people are spoiled. The TRD Tundra still rides better than a lot of trucks did just five years ago, and it gives you the confidence on the trail or on the job-site that you can go anywhere. It's also a huge boost in resale value to have this option - we suggest you strongly consider it.
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reliability

Since the 2nd generation Tundra debuted in 2007, it has won the following awards:

Toyota's reputation for qualty took a hit in 2010 following their unintended acceleration scandal, but investigations have shown accusations of electronic throttle problems are false. It's likely that Toyota's reliability ratings were negatively effected by this scandal, so it's important to recognize their impact on ratings from Consumer Reports, JD Power, etc.
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warranty

You get three warranties with every new truck. 3yr/36k mile bumper to bumper coverage, plus a 5yr/60k mile warranty on the powertrain (that's the engine, transmission, differentials, t-case, etc.), and a 5yr/unlimited mileage warranty against corrosion. On top of those, Toyota warranties all of it's accessories for 12 months OR the remainder of the 3/36k mile warranty, whichever is greater.

However, when you compare Toyota's warranty to those offered by their competitors, they're a little behind the curve. In our comparison of truck warranties, Toyota finished last. top

safety ratings

When the 2007 Tundra regular cab and double cab were crash tested by NHTSAm, they both received four star ratings. However, that same year the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave the Tundra an overall rating of "good" and gave the Tundra their Top-Pick designation, the first pickup truck ever to receive this award.
Three years later, NHTSA tested the Tundra again, and despite no significant changes, the Tundra scored five stars in crash tests. (See WTF NHTSA? Toyota scores better on crash tests with no apparent changes)

Find the latest government crash test ratings and the latest IIHS crash test ratings.
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v.s.c.

VSC, short for Vehicle Stability Control, is a complicated network of sensors and a computer program that reads the results of these sensors to help keep the vehicle on the road. In essence, the system measures yaw, pitch, and roll of the vehicle while also measuring wheel spin, steering angle, and overall speed. Using all of this information, the computer can determine if and when to apply brake to help maintain vehicle stability.

VSC has been shown to reduce the likelihood of a single vehicle accident by 30% (NHTSA). Very useful feature for inclement weather driving - this will be standard equipment on every car by 2012. top

sales figures

2007
January 07: 6,321
February 07: 9,669
March 07: 13,196
April 07: 14,200
May 07: 17,727
June 07: 21,727
July 07: 23,150
August 07: 18,919
September 07: 19,571
October 07: 17,868
November 07: 14,988
December 07: 19,219

2008
January 08: 12,073
February 08: 14,400
March 08: 14,311
April 08: 13,350
May 08: 12,144
June 08: 10,238
July 08: 13,413
August 08: 17,401
September 08: 7,696
October 08: 6,425
November 08: 6,607
December 08: 9,191

2009
January 09: 7,076
February 09: 5,726
March 09: 5,547
April 09: 6,156
May 09: 6,414
June 09: 5,187
July 09: 6,313
August 09: 7,872
September 09: 6,308
October 09: 7,537
November 09: 6,379
December 09: 8,870

2010
January 10: 3,904
February 10: 5,468
March 10: 10,785
April 10: 8,949
May 10: 8,491
June 10: 7,717
July 10: 9,201
August 10: 7,207
September 10: 6,923
October 10: 7,187
November 10: 7,464
December 10: 10,013

2011
January 11: 6,087
February 11: 7,012
March 11: 7,515
April 11: 8,312
May 11:
June 11:
July 11:
August 11:
September 11:
October 11:
November 11:
December 11:

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annual sales

2000MY: 100,445 units
2001MY: 108,863 units
2002MY: 99,333 units
2003MY: 101,316 units
2004MY: 112,484 units
2005MY: 126,529 units
2006MY: 124,508 units
2007MY: 196,555 units
2008MY: 137,249 units
2009MY: 79,385 units
2010MY: 93,309
2011MY: TBD

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