Toyota's Tundra is available in nearly 60 variations to meet different truck users' needs for 2010, available in two- or 4-wheel drive, three cab styles (regular, Double Cab, and Crew Max), three bed lengths (short, standard, and long), three wheelbases, and three different engines. The 5.7L V8 offers an E85 flex-fuel option.
Each of the three beds is about 22 inches deep and shaped to accept 2x8-foot lumber dividers. The steel tailgate is designed to be opened and closed with just two fingers, and there's also an available Deck Rail system for more individualized cargo arrangements.
Regular cab models are the standard two-door arrangement with one row of seating, the Double Cab offers smaller rear doors for occasional back-seat passengers, and the big Crew Max brings full-size rear doors and seating comparable to that offered in big SUVs. Crew Max models also have a unique reclining and sliding rear seat, while Double Cabs get a folding seat bottom that allows for a flat storage area when the seat isn't in use.
The base engine on regular and Double Cab standard-bed models is a 236-horsepower, 4.0L V6; Crew Max and Double Cab long-bed models get a new 4.6L V8 making 310 horsepower and 327 pound-feet of torque. A 5.7L "iForce" V8 making 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque is available on all models, and on 4x4 Tundras, in some regions, the engine can be optioned to run on E85 ethanol/gasoline blend. All of the engines meet the stringent ULEV II emissions certification and run on 87-octane gas. The 4.0L engine is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, but the 4.6L and 5.7L both drive 6-speed automatics.
All Tundras have a rear suspension design that maintains a level ride height even with a full load; underneath are fully boxed frame rails in front and rolled C-channel members in back. When properly equipped, the Tundra can tow nearly 11,000 pounds.
The Tundra has more standard safety features than most of its competitors. Front-seat side airbags are standard on all models, along with roll-sensing side-curtain airbags and new front seat knee airbags. Also, 4-wheel disc brakes with vehicle stability control are standard on all Tundras.
While the safety features are standard across the line, the Tundra ranges from basic to very luxurious inside depending on the trim level, starting at the very frugal base model and going all the way up to the very well-appointed Limited.
Different Tundra models are available, including a new "Work Truck" no frills trim level that's available in standard cab or double cab versions. It features plain black bumpers, vinyl seats, rubber floor mat, and non-power mirrors. Also available is the base Tundra Grade trim, as well as a more upscale Limited trim level. Limited Double Cab and CrewMax get equipment upgrades such as power front seats, 6-disc CD changer, heated mirrors and mud guards. The Limited model includes all the interior luxury features offered in full-size SUVs, such as dual-zone climate control, heated power front seats, and a 440-watt JBL surround-sound system. Finally, a new Platinum edition is available on the Limited CrewMax only, featuring power memory, navigation, sunroof, unique 20-inch wheels, wood and chrome interior accents, and "Platinum" badging.
Inside, all models feature a tilt/telescopic steering wheel, door handles and control knobs large enough to be operated with gloves. The glovebox is designed to be big enough to hold a Thermos, and the center console is large enough for a laptop or for file storage. Interior power outlets stay live for two hours after the ignition is switched off.
A TRD (Toyota Racing Development) Off-Road Package is optional on the Tundra, bringing an off-road suspension, off-road tires, skid plates, fog lamps and more. New TRD Sport and TRD Rock Warrior packages include special color-keyed bumpers. Rock Warrior also gets a special TRD-tuned off-road suspension, and both offer unique wheels.
Other notable options include a DVD-based navigation with rearview camera, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, and larger 20-inch wheels.
Safety Features
Towing And Hauling Ability
Thoughtful Interior Design
Performance With Optional 4.6L And 5.7L Engines.
Following a 2007 redesign the Tundra enters 2010 with several changes. A new more powerful 4.6L midrange V8 is available to replace last year's 4.7L V8. Two new trim levels are also available: Platinum and Work Truck. Minor cosmetic adjustments have been made to the grille and taillamps and front seat knee airbags and height-adjustable headlamps are now standard across the line. Two new audio choices are available, as well as folding tow mirrors, a power vertical rear window and in-mirror back up camera. All SR5 Double Cab and Crew Max models have been discontinued with the SR5 package now an option rather than a stand alone model.
The 2010 Tundra CrewMax has best-in-class legroom, according to Toyota, and offers the only reclining and sliding rear seat among pickups. The Tundra also offers one of the best-designed interiors, with plenty of storage space and easy access to the backseat area. The available 5.7L engine makes 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque, with hauling and towing ability near the top of the segment. Safety is also a strong selling point, as Tundra is the first full-size pickup to have stability control, front side airbags, front seat knee airbags and rollover-sensing side-curtain airbags standard across the model line.
