By Jim Prueter
MotorwayAmerica.com

(May 28, 2017) Tundra is Toyota’s full-sized pickup truck. It’s been largely unchanged since the 2007 model year when it was completely redesigned for its second-generation. It last received a freshening in 2014, and is unchanged for 2017. Competitors like the Ford F-150, RAM 1500, Nissan Titan, and Chevy Silverado have all introduced newer and refined product offerings, leaving the Tundra feeling dated and competitively at the rear of the pack.

However, that doesn’t mean Tundra isn’t without its merits and strong features. We recently spent a week with a 2017 Tundra Limited CrewMax TRD 4X4 and found many things to like, including the powerful 5.7 liter V-8 engine that propels the truck to 60 mph in just 6.6 seconds, besting competitors. We also like the huge cab with ample room both up front and in the rear. It’s still the only truck with a rear window that powers all the way down; we also like its easy drop-and-lift tailgate.



Tundra comes in six different trim levels and is only available with a V-8 engine, either a 4.6-liter 310-horsepower or 5.7-liter with 381 horsepower. You can also choose from three different cab configurations, three different bed lengths and either two- or four-wheel drive. 

On the road, our Tundra was pleasantly quiet and composed, but we found the ride quality too firm for our liking and much preferred RAM and F-150. It was also thirsty; our realized fuel economy was15.2 miles per gallon, which is about average for the class. But it does help that Tundra comes standard with a 38-gallon fuel tank.

The 10,500-pound load capacity is adequate for most people who haul cargo or pull a trailer, boat, or camper. There’s also a tow-haul mode setting with integrated trailer braking and sway control making towing a breeze.

Our test truck also included the TRD Off-Road package, which adds under-body protection, beefier shocks, front tow hooks, 18-inch alloy wheels and off-terrain tires for tackling off-road adventures. For more aggressive and hard-core off roading, buyers will want to consider the Tundra TRD Pro trim level.

While Tundra’s sales and popularity have never approached those of the F-150 or Silverado, especially for commercial applications, it isn’t without its fans for personal-use buyers. Owners like its dependability, and that it enjoys the highest resale value among all half-ton pickups. They also like the fact that it’s built in San Antonio, Texas, and not in Mexico like the Silverado, RAM and some Ford F150s.

With its spaciousness, capability, strong reliability and resale value we recommend the Tundra as a solid option for a full size pickup.

Vital Stats

Base Price: $30,120 - $50,130
Price as Tested: $52,060
Seating: 5
Engine: 5.7-liter V-8
Horsepower: 381-hp
Fuel Economy: 13-MPG City – 17-MPG Highway
Crash Test Safety Ratings: National Highway Transportation Association: Overall 4 out of 5 stars

Competes With

Chevrolet Silverado
Ford F150
Nissan Titan
RAM 1500

Fab Features

Spacious front and rear seats
Off-road capabilities
Class-leading reliability and resale value