Overview Of The Toyota Tundra
Toyota might not come to mind for a full-sized pickup, but this car company has the Tundra in this segment. It is hard to stand up to the big guys at Ford, Chevy, and Ram, but the Tundra does its best to look the part. Faced with some major competition, Toyota decided to totally update its most popular truck. Toyota isn’t just updating the outside aesthetics; the equipment under the hood received an upgrade, as did the technology. Before making a purchase it's a beneficial idea to search for online deals and compare savings.
What's New?
Not much has changed since the 2014 update, except the sticker price. The outside received a few tweaks, with a new grille and a manlier tailgate. For the inside, Toyota also got rid of the base V-6 engine, and changed around the trim and equipment. As far as price, the base price is $29,800, with ranges up to $43,800.
Exterior FeaturesDo not expect a work-truck feel with the Tundra. This Toyota features six models: base SR, SR5, Limited, Platinum, TRD Pro, and 1794. However, there are only three cab choices: a regular cab, a Double Cab extended, and a CrewMax four-full-door. Each of these have a fixed bed choice, with the regular cab only having a long-bed, and the CrewMax only having a 5.6-foot bed. The Double Cab does get a choice, though, between almost 7 feet and 8 feet.
Interior FeaturesFrom the inside, drivers would think they were in a Lexus instead. Compared to other companies, this space is cavernous, even in the base models. The four-door models might look like the typical truck back but it is actually spacious and comfortable compared to other pickups. This helps on broken roads and speed bumps, which barely make a difference throughout the structure.
TechnologyToyota also focused on technology for this update, with the center console neatly laid out and with large knobs. This console includes a radio, CD player, auxiliary and UBS ports and Bluetooth capabilities. For more money, drivers can get a 6-inch touch-screen display, iPod connectivity, advance voice recognition, Siri Eyes Free and a backup camera.
Engine/Fuel EfficiencyFor the Tundra, drivers have a choice between two V-8 engines, one that is 310 horsepower and the other that is 381 horsepower. Both come with a six-speed automatic transmission, but drivers can choose between a four-wheel drive option and a rear-wheel drive option.
However smooth the ride and power delivery are, the Tundra is very noisy. Even the mirrors create wind noise. Steering is slow and not as accurate as someone buying a new car would like, and the brakes seem not as strong for such a large vehicle. Sadly, the fuel efficiency is not that great, either: up to 15 mpg city and 19 mpg highway.
SafetyUnfortunately, like many trucks on the market, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is not giving too high of marks for pickups. However, Toyota added a few items that the competition might not have. Of course the Tundra has dual stage airbags and side impact beams, but it also includes knee airbags and rear child safety locks. It also can include a rear backup camera, like mentioned previously.