The Toyota Tundra: A Pickup Truck Review
As I got behind the wheel of this pickup truck, I couldn't help but feel tied down by its raised seats. Whether you want them or not, it seems like there is no grab handle on the driver's side. This particular feature can be frustrating, especially when trying to get in and out of the vehicle without assistance.
However, there are some redeeming qualities that make this pickup truck stand out from the rest. For instance, all the LED lights on the outside of the car have the same temperature rating, providing a uniform color of light in the dark. This feature is particularly useful for nighttime driving. Additionally, the rear window section extends all the way down, offering a clear view behind the vehicle.
The Tundra also boasts an impressive towing limit of up to 4.6 tonnes, making it a reliable choice for those who need to haul heavy loads. The doors extend all the way down over the sill, protecting them from mud and debris when driving off-road. This feature is especially useful when getting in and out of the vehicle, as it prevents dirt and grime from accumulating on the back seat.
Safety features are also a major plus for this pickup truck. The Tundra was the first full-sized pickup to receive a top pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in the United States. This recognition speaks volumes about the vehicle's safety record, which is further enhanced by its double overhead cams engine.
The engine itself is a 5.7-liter V8, which may seem old-fashioned compared to modern engines. However, it still packs a punch, producing 544 Newton-meters of torque and 381 horsepower. While not as powerful as some other pickup trucks on the market, it's more than enough for everyday driving.
As I took the Tundra out for a spin, I couldn't help but notice its old-school feel. The actual chassis has largely remained unchanged for over a decade, with only minor updates each year. This may make it feel a bit dated, particularly when compared to newer pickup trucks. However, I found the driving experience to be surprisingly relaxing, much like cruising in an older model sedan.
The steering, however, is somewhat loose and vague, even by pickup truck standards. Additionally, the ride quality can be quite unsettled, with bumps and jolts feeling amplified through the chassis. This may be due in part to the leaf springs used for suspension, which are not as advanced as those found in newer models.
Despite these quirks, I did find one aspect of the Tundra that truly impressed: its engine. Smooth and creamy, it's a joy to drive, with plenty of pulling power to get the job done. The gearbox can sometimes take a while to kick down, but overall, the driving experience is reasonably smooth.
Most people will never push their pickup trucks too hard, and for good reason – this vehicle isn't designed for high-performance driving. It's meant for hauling heavy loads, towing, and everyday driving tasks, not for racing or aggressive driving. In fact, I would caution against pushing the Tundra too hard, as its old-school chassis may start to show its age.
That being said, if you're in the market for a reliable pickup truck that won't break the bank, the Toyota Tundra is definitely worth considering. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of newer models, it's a solid choice that gets the job done. Just be aware that it may not hold up as well to modern driving demands, and don't expect it to keep pace with more advanced pickup trucks on twisty roads.
For those in the UK who are looking for a similar vehicle, I would recommend exploring other options. The Tundra is not currently available in the UK market, so you'll need to look elsewhere. However, if you're watching this video from the US and want to research other pickup trucks, I'd recommend checking out Edmunds.com – it's another great car comparison website that can help you find the right vehicle for your needs.
Overall, my final verdict on the Toyota Tundra is that it's a fairly decent pickup truck. While it hasn't received a major update in a long time, and its age shows in certain aspects of its design, it still offers plenty of benefits. If you're looking for a reliable workhorse that won't break the bank, the Tundra is definitely worth considering – just be aware of its limitations and don't expect it to keep pace with more modern pickup trucks on twisty roads.