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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  Remarkable truck! - 2004 Toyota Tundra
  By jsa - February 16 - 10:33 pm

  I picked up my 2004 Tundra Double Cab SR5 V8 3 weeks ago. It had 24k miles on it and is in excellent condition in and out. I was able to work the dealer over on the price, and got it for exactly what I was willing to pay. Two grand under KBB. I would like to share my initial impressions. First, the trucks ride is extraordinary. It is smooth and extremely quiet. It rides like a Lexus. The handling is nice, but somewhat loose. It is no effort to carry on a low conversation with backseat passengers at highway speed. Controls are in easy reach and the JBL stereo sounds great. Doors close with a solid thump that inspires a secure feeling. Best ext. styling in its class, IMO. Would buy again.

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  I love my Toyota! - 2004 Toyota Tundra
  By Keldawwg - February 15 - 10:00 am

  When shopping for a new truck, my wife asked me to consider a Ford, because a friend could get us areally great deal on a Ford. No Way! I drive 35K miles a year, and I dont want a truck that’ll give me problems before it has 150,000 miles on it. My old Toyota has 197,000 miles on it, and except for maintenance my total repair bills have been $220. An EGR tube and speedo cable. American cars do not have the quality of a Toyota. Our friend with the Ford has had a lot of problems; power windows/power door locks, cruise control and brakes. It’s left him stranded on the side of the road twice! He doesnt have 50,000 miles on it, and hes buying a new Ford.

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  Under Powered - 2001 Toyota Tundra
  By joel - February 13 - 10:00 am

  I bought a new toyota truck and have been disapointed the longer I have had it. It is not able to pull the heavy loads that I wanted too. I bought a new trailer for my business and it just doesnt have the power to pull like I need. It is really underpowered, unless you just drive it to Lowes Hardware etc... I have also had a few problems, one is with some interior noise and an air conditioning problem. I have been underwhelmed with the performance of this vehicle.

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  Under Powered - 2001 Toyota Tundra
  By Joel - February 13 - 10:00 am

  I bought a new toyota truck and have been disapointed the longer I have had it. It is not able to pull the heavy loads that I wanted too. I bought a new trailer for my business and it just doesnt have the power to pull like I need. It is really underpowered, unless you just drive it to Lowes Hardware etc... I have also had a few problems, one is with some interior noise and an air conditioning problem. I have been underwhelmed with the performance of this vehicle.

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  Best vehicle Ive ever owned - 2003 Toyota Tundra
  By tberkla - February 8 - 10:00 am

  I love my truck. I spent 6 months researching and test driving before I bought my Tundra. The chevy just felt like I was driving a boat and the ford just felt cheaply made. The two things that set the Tundra appart was the smooth responsive engine and the substantially higher quality interior. The only truck that comes close it is the new Nissan Titan. Even with the new F-150, American brands have a long way to catch up.

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  What a Truck - 2004 Toyota Tundra
  By ChristianHogle - February 8 - 10:00 am

  I walked into a great truck. After checking out Fords we decided to just check out Toyotas. What a shock. Bigger, Better, Bolder. This truck blew the doors off Ford. Great power yet so quiet and smooth. the interior is easy nothing difficult to reach lots of cubbies and a CD player standard. Real cloth seats carpet Auto windows and door locks, I would have had to pay extra for these with a ford. Rides is sturdy not overly stiff and it feels fun to drive. I feel like I got a lot of truck for a decent price where other trucks seemed cheaper in quality but more in price. Incredible looks by the way

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  One excellent piece of a truck - 2000 Toyota Tundra
  By chirravu - February 7 - 10:03 pm

  This is also an update to our 2000 Tundra SR5 V8 4x2. Just finished 150K mark on this. Some time ago performed spark-plug tune-up - bingo, this truck runs new like the first day I bought this Big Dawg in 99. Change oil every 5K and this Toyota keeps going 4eva! To date, this truck doesnt rattle, squeak, squeal, or rust. Recently put a another set of Michelin LTX. I do get about 17-18 MPG on mostly highway drive. I have used it to tow just about anything you can imagine (within ratings limits), impressive passing power even with full-load. At times dont even realize we have 5000+ pound trailer attached, power fools ya!

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  Quality ? - 2006 Toyota Tundra
  By Tom Bergklint - February 6 - 10:56 pm

  I purchased my Tundra 4dr 4WD in 12/06 brand new. I previously owned a 2002 access cab 4WD. The quality of this Tundra is inferior to my 2002. I have a shifter lever that doesnt like to let the key out, heater controls that work hard, and an A/C that didnt work when I got it. The truck is nice riding, but huge to try to parallel park. The gas mileage is only 15-16 and really needs improvement. I wish I would have kept my 2002 and I hope that Toyotas quality is not starting to slip. I still have not received the questionaire from Toyota asking me how I like my truck. I plan on letting them know about the difference in quality from my 2002 to this 2006.

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  2017 Tundra 1794 Edition - 2017 Toyota Tundra
  By Jim - February 1 - 5:48 pm

  I had previously driven a 2007 Tundra SR5, which I had purchased in 09. Its why I bought a 2017. I studied, as I do with all big purchases for a couple of years. In reading the reviews online, I agree with the "cons". We all know they dont get great gas mileage, and Ive owned this truck, with 1500 miles on it, for a little over a month, and right now, the computer shows 15.9 mph. Having said that, most of my driving is 60 mph on the highway. And I also know a couple of new Tundra owners who are getting in the 13-14 range. If my computer is correct, Im doing a little better. The other "cons" in reviews are slow braking, and I knew that going in. They are heavy trucks (5900 lbs) if Im not mistaken. My old Tundra had the 4.6 engine and the 5.7 is a hoss compared to that one, though for my purposes, I never had an issue with the 4.6....just wanted more, and I got it. One of the other knocks is a less responsive steering, but its never bothered me as I dont drive Fords or Chevys anymore, though I drove Chevy for 30 years prior to 09. Now for the "pros".......the interior of the 1794 is said to be comparable to the Lexus, and I believe it. The leather is beautiful and this thing has every gadget available as the 1794 is a "Platinum" with a unique interior. Ive heard it said that competitors offer more stuff, but to be honest, it will take me 10 years to learn how to operate everything on this one. The 1794 does have directional signals in the mirrors and one of my favorite safety options, the blind spot indicator in the mirrors, which I now rely on. The interior (save the inside cargo space) is larger than my wifes Chevy Tahoe. Far and away the roomiest truck out there. And with the long wheelbase, on the highway you get a ride like a very nice car. This truck is 4WD, and the suspension is stiffer than my 2WD 07 Tundra, but on the highway, theres no comparison. Both smooth riding trucks however. As the guys Ive worked with and I share truck information liberally, theyve been surprised at the price of this truck compared to say a comparable Ford "King Ranch". It s large pickup that drives and rides like a large pickup, and if you consider that going in, you really cant go wrong with a Tundra.

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  Small Brake Issue - 2000 Toyota Tundra
  By Shadytrake - January 31 - 2:00 am

  Overall, this truck is a good buy. The only issue that I have had is with the brakes. I had to have all four replaced along with drums and such under warranty due to warping, glazing, and a severe shudder. They are now having the same problem except for the shudder which I assume will show up any day. This means I am only getting about 20,000 miles on the brakes, sigh...and since I tow horses, this creates a problem.