New Toyota Tundra 2012

The Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup that has garnered its share of praise and criticism over its 11-year run. TheCarConnection has found the truck to be strong and full-featured, but also too large and hard to maneuver in some cases. Going up against the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado and Nissan Titan, it is in one of the market's most competitive segments. A bit pricier than the U.S.-brand competition, the Tundra runs from $23,000 to $29,000 base depending on cab configuration.

First sold in 1999 as a 2000 model truck, the Tundra has evolved to grow larger and more powerful over its two generations. The first-generation Tundra was available with a 190-horsepower 3.4-liter V-6 engine and a 245-horsepower 4.7-liter V-8, plus a special TRD version of each, which added some power through supercharging. In 2005, Toyota upgraded the V-6 to a 4.0-liter unit, and added variable valve timing to the V-8, resulting in a power bump for both. Styling on the first-generation Tundra was understated, and Regular, Access, and Double cab versions were offered. Due to relatively low tow ratings of around 7,000 pounds, the Tundra wasn't fully competitive with the heavier-duty American pickups. In 2006, the second-generation Tundra arrived, adding a new 5.7-liter V-8 engine option and bumping the tow rating up to 10,100 pounds, a much more competitive figure in the half-ton class. A number of high-performance TRD packages are also available, including a street-focused Sport package and a special off-road Rock Warrior package.

The current Tundra offers a choice of three engines: the 4.0-liter V-6, a 4.6-liter V-8 rated at 310 horsepower and a 5.7-liter V-8 rated at 381 horsepower. The largest V-8 is also available with flex-fuel capability. The Regular Cab model is the work truck of the range, offering a minimalist base feature set, though it can be optionally upgraded to include more advanced features. The Double Cab model offers a higher base specification, including more available upgrades. The CrewMax model, with its four-door layout, offers luxury items like an available power moonroof, a standard power vertical sliding rear window, plus optional unique exterior accents including a chrome grille surround, chrome-trimmed power-folding side mirrors, and more. Bed configurations for the Tundra include standard and long beds, though the long bed is only available on the Regular and Double cab models. The V-6 model is only available in 4x2 drive layout, while the V-8s are available in either 4x2 or 4x4.

Interior features follow similar paths to upgrade as the exterior features, with the larger-cab models offering more in the way of available upgrades and base equipment. The base Regular Cab truck includes an MP3-capable six-speaker CD stereo, dual-zone climate control, split-folding bench seat (bucket upgrade available), and rubberized flooring, with carpeting available as part of a package upgrade. DVD-based navigation is available across the range. Stepping up to the Double Cab version adds standard cruise control, power windows and door locks, and a fold-up rear seat, plus the ability to upgrade to an enhanced JBL audio system with integrated DVD navigation, bucket seats, and an overhead console bin. The CrewMax can be purchased in an upgraded Limited trim, which adds the JBL system as standard, upgraded Optitron gauges with information display, tilt-telescoping wheel, front and rear sonar for parking, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, leather-trimmed upholstery with power front seats, and more standard interior storage compartments.