Overview & Reviews

When it originally debuted near the start of the new millennium, the Toyota Tundra was considered by many people to be the first import full-size pickup truck to truly go head-to-head against the trucks from domestic brands. In the Tundra's favor were a refined V8 engine and Toyota's reputation for reliability and durability. This Tundra, however, ultimately found more of an audience with recreational pickup buyers than with hard-core users.

Second-generation Tundras, however, are significantly bigger and more capable. As an American-built truck with true full-size proportions, the second-generation Tundra features three cab sizes, three bed lengths and a choice of three engines. In pretty much every measure, the Toyota Tundra stands equal to competing 1500-series pickups.

Current Toyota Tundra
The full-size Toyota Tundra comes in regular cab, Double Cab and CrewMax body styles as well as base and Limited trims. The Double Cab is essentially a large extended cab with four forward-hinged doors, while the CrewMax is an extra-large crew cab. Available bed lengths for the regular cab and Double Cabs include both a 6.5-foot and an 8-foot bed, while the CrewMax comes with only a 5.5-foot bed.

Some Regular Cabs and Double Cabs have as their standard engine a 4.0-liter V6 rated at 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. Other Tundras receive a 4.6-liter V8 putting out 310 horses and 327 lb-ft of torque. The big engine option is a 5.7-liter V8 cranking out 381 hp and 401 lb-ft. The V6 gets a five-speed automatic transmission, while the V8s are hooked to six-speed automatics. All versions are offered with rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.

In addition to its strong V8s, the Toyota Tundra stands out thanks to its passenger-friendly cabins. The extended Double Cab features traditional front-hinged doors, making day-to-day usability easier than Chevy and Ford trucks with the more traditional reverse-opening access doors. The Tundra CrewMax, meanwhile, is truly enormous, featuring excellent legroom and a rear seat that not only slides but reclines as well. Feature highlights include a standard rearview camera and available smartphone integration.

There are some downsides, however, including a sometimes jiggly ride quality, below-average fuel economy and driving characteristics than can make it feel bigger than it really is. But the latest Tundra continues to be one tough truck that certainly meets the needs of today's buyers.

Used Toyota Tundra Models
The current Toyota Tundra represents the second generation, which debuted for the 2007 model year. There have been a few changes to note if you're looking for a used Tundra. Models from 2007-'09 with the midsize V8 had a 4.7-liter V8 good for 271 hp. The 4.6-liter V8 with 310 hp arrived for 2010. That year also brought a couple new trim levels, as well as minor cosmetic tweaks and the addition of front-seat knee airbags. Also, prior to 2011 the V6 was less powerful (it made 236 hp). These Tundras also lack the 2014 model's updated interior and exterior styling, standard-across-the-board rearview camera and some available high-tech features, such as smartphone integration and blind-spot monitoring.

The previous-generation full-size Toyota Tundra replaced the unloved T100 pickup when it debuted for 2000. Production ran through the 2006 model year. Although it was available with an optional V8 and several configurations, it wasn't large or tough enough to compete with its more traditional rivals when it came time for serious work-site tasks.

Originally, the Tundra was available in regular and extended-cab versions. Regular-cab versions came only in long bed form, while the extended-cab models (Access Cab) came only with the short bed. The latter did include two rearward-opening doors for easier rear-seat access, but the backseat was cramped for a full-size pickup truck.

There were three trim levels: a sparsely equipped base trim, the midlevel SR5 and the top-line Limited. The base trim was available on two-wheel-drive regular cabs only. A 3.4-liter V6, making 190 hp and 220 lb-ft of torque, was standard on regular-cab Tundras and could be mated to either a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual transmission.

Topping the lineup was an available 4.7-liter V8 engine. This smooth-revving power plant made 245 hp and 315 lb-ft of torque and was available with a four-speed automatic transmission only.

Only detail changes carried through to 2003, at which point Toyota expanded the Tundra's lineup to include an available sporty new StepSide cargo bed for V8-powered Access Cabs. All Tundras received freshened front-end styling that year, as well as standard antilock brakes and an upgraded center console. A power sliding rear window was also added to Limited models.

The big news for 2004 was the arrival of the Double Cab, a crew-cab version of the Tundra. Riding on an extended wheelbase and featuring a roomier cabin and a cargo bed equal in length to the Access Cab's, the Double Cab added some much-needed variety to the Tundra's lineup, providing a viable option for family-minded truck buyers.

Prospective used Toyota Tundra buyers who plan on doing a lot of hauling or towing should probably focus on 2005 or newer models, as Toyota enhanced the powertrains that year. A new 245-hp, 4.0-liter V6 coupled with either a six-speed manual or optional five-speed automatic transmission became standard, and the available 4.7-liter V8 was now good for 282 horses and used the new five-speed automatic exclusively.

In reviews of the time, we commented favorably about the Toyota Tundra's smooth and refined V8, easy maneuverability in urban areas and roomy Double Cab configuration. Downsides included a lack of brawn for serious towing and hauling, uncomfortable front seats, a cramped rear seat in Access Cab models and chintzy interior trimmings.

User Reviews:

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  Toyota quality a step ahead - 2007 Toyota Tundra
  By David - February 4 - 11:43 am

  This truck meets all my expectations derived from owning two previous Toyota trucks. The regular cab has large doors with large windows which make for unsurpassed visibility. The storage area behind the seats is completely practible. While some reviews have complained about the ride, I find it very acceptable. The room and comfort of the cab make long trips a delight. The engine/transmission package is smooth and provides ample power for my needs. If I towed a large trailer, I would opt for the 5.7 V8. Overall, its a workhorse of truck that I can depend on that drives well too. Gas mileage is about what I expected, 17-18 mpg.

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  Conflicted. - 2008 Toyota Tundra
  By VictorV. - January 15 - 7:40 am

  My first choice was a 2009 Ford F150, but could not make a deal. Bought my Tundra in Monterey, Ca and drove her home to Las Vegas, NV. I drove my truck through a multitude of highways, and this is what I learned. More power than I will ever need. Going up the grade past Baker, CA, the Tundra did not break a sweat. Drive was smooth and comfortable, but, pay attention here, there is bed bounce. Just on certain type of roads, not enough to get rid of the truck (my Dodge Ram had the same issue) but it might cause other drivers fits. Very quiet truck, cannot hear roadnoise. All in all, the best bang for the buck in its segment.

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  Poor Gas Mileage - Less than EPA Rating - 2006 Toyota Tundra
  By Robert - December 28 - 3:43 pm

  My wife and I are both Toyota owners. My wife owns a 2003 Avalon, while I have access to the 4.7L V8 engine 2006 Tundra. I have really been disappointed with actual fuel mileage compared to rated fuel mileage for the Tundra. This issue looms even larger in light of the higher fuel prices over 2005 prices. Actual highway mileage is 14-15 mpg, while the EPA fuel rating is 18-20 mpg for higway driving. Actual city mileage is poor. The Tundras turning radius is also problematic. Typical u-turns from a two way street or highway onto a two way street or hignway are virtually impossible without having to turn and backup.

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  Quality control improvements needed - 2007 Toyota Tundra
  By MOMAN - December 24 - 4:20 am

  Excellent truck and excellent local dealer. Problems: In 18 months I had 3 radios, 3 rear bumpers, 2 alloy wheels repainted, and new set of tires. In 18 months I averaged 17.5 MPG. The truck is fun to drive and very functional. Went to Toyota due to problems with U.S. vehicles - now having problems with Toyota.

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  New Stepside Tundra - 2004 Toyota Tundra
  By Chris Boling - December 20 - 2:00 am

  This truck is all most people neeeds for hauling, towing and passenger room for your everyday driving. However it is a little short on rear passenger space for anykind of overnight drive. Overall I love this truck. It is has lots of curb appeal, very dependable,nice amenities and great resale value. It also fits where in spaces that its competition can only dream about.

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  nice ride for a truck - 2004 Toyota Tundra
  By slick surface - December 14 - 2:00 am

  The double cab is the way to go. It has plenty of leg and elbow space in the front and the back. It seems to have plenty of power,but I have not towed with it yet. The ride is very smooth and quiet. I felt like we were riding on air. It handles turns real nice and smooth. The bad thing I have to say about this truck is that the gas mileage is not very good. I have been getting about 15 miles to the gallon. The four wheel drive was a very nice feature to have. It gets around great in the snow.

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  A great SUT - 2004 Toyota Tundra
  By Puckyhuddle - December 9 - 10:00 am

  Ive had this truck for a week now and I am very impressed with it. I think of it as a Sport Utility Truck (SUT) than combines the best features of an SUV and a truck. The ride is incredible, plenty of room in and out. Its a great vehicle for an active family with plenty of utlity.

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  Excellent build quality - 2003 Toyota Tundra
  By BLD - December 7 - 10:00 am

  The truck was delivered new in pristine condition. Problems: front disc brakes warp easily. Some front suspension noise or roughness. Poor dealer service. Not enough engine torque especially going uphill. Poor mileage. Not enough storage cubbyholes inside. Rear seat back should tilt foward for more storage. Hard to park due to big turning radius. Bed height is too shallow.

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  Tundra - 2004 Toyota Tundra
  By cw9066 - November 19 - 1:00 pm

  Ive had my truck about four months. The ride is excellent. Layout is very convenient. The mileage is about 15 mpg in mixed driving. Handling is pretty good for a truck, but my BMW drives better! Overall, Im happy with my purchase and pleased with the quality.

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  Not crazy about it. - 2005 Toyota Tundra
  By srpeterson - November 17 - 10:13 am

  I like my Tundra V8 with the TRD package, but Im not crazy about it. Ride and handling are great. Ive had an irritating rumble/vibration that Toyota claims is a harmonic vibration from the exhaust and they have no fix for it. Live with it is their answer. Very disappointed with the gas mileage. From March to July 2005 I got 14 to 16 mpg. Since then I am averaging 11 to 12 mpg. This is for all round driving. I dont let the truck warm up forever before driving it so very little idling time. Getting some wind noise from somewhere around the windshield that wasnt there when I bought the truck. I have 7400 mi. on it now. Overall I think this is just a so - so vehicle.