2022 Toyota Tundra
It took over a decade for Toyota to finally introduce a new full-size, half-ton pickup truck. However, they wanted to make sure that their San Antonio, Texas-built truck was perfectly positioned against its domestic competition. Better still, something that will challenge them with new benchmarks for the class.
That was we eagerly waited for this new generation model. We were not disappointed with what we received.
The new 2022 Toyota Tundra arrived looking to work and some play time. We were ready to put it to the test for you.
The new generation model features a new fully-boxed frame, fully independent multilink rear suspension, and an entirely new driveline. All of this lies underneath a brand new box and cab that gives the competition something visual to battle against.
The first thing you see from the cab is the biggest grill you will find in his class. This is not just for aesthetics but for greater airflow into the engine area. The rest of the cab features a rakish windshield angle and four large opening doors on this CrewMax version. Out back is a 5 1/2 foot box that is standard on CrewMax models completed the look of this Limited trim model.
This tester also adds the TRD Off-Road package, which includes a set of 20-inch alloy wheels, some decals, and an off-road suspension using Bilstein shocks along with the additional skid plates, mudguards, and other details inside and out. Among the off-road aids that this tester has includes Multi-Terrain Select, Crawl Control, and Downhill Assist Control.
Since we're talking about the interior let's talk about the instrument cluster that offers two analog dials and a digital information screen in between them. Above the center stack is a 14-inch multimedia screen that dominates the entire interior and for good reason. It houses everything including wireless smartphone connectivity and onboard Wi-Fi.
The SofTex front seats are very large and quite comfortable and supportive. Rear seat room offers generous leg and head room for three people across. In all, this is a very accommodating cabin with lots of storage space for practically everything. Even better, there is a shifter for the automatic transmission!
As I said before, everything is new underneath the skin that includes this new i-FORCE 3.5-liter twin turbocharged V6 engine, putting out 389 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. Coming soon is the new i-FORCE MAX engine combining a twin-turbocharged V6 engine with a hybrid driveline. That puts out 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque and will be available on the TRD Pro and Capstone trim levels, to name a few.
My tester’s driveline is connected to a new 10 speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel drive system using a 2-speed transfer case. Compared to the last generation’s V8 engine there is more upfront performance, improved acceleration, noise, vibration, and harshness.
In this configuration, the maximum tow capacity is 11,120 pounds with a maximum payload rating of 1,740 pounds. We also averaged 16.7 MPG for fuel economy.
Because of the new independent rear suspension, the ride quality is much better overall. The way the Tundra handles rougher sections of road has greatly improved over last generation’s model. Handling is much more controlled with some lean and roll on some curves. Yet, it is a gentle truck even with a quick response from the accelerator pedal.
The brakes were fantastic, offering a solid pedal feel and great response to the wheels. The Tundra returned good normal and panic stops.
The steering system is where we had several concerns about. The turning radius was considered average among full-size half-ton pickup truck, as does the on-center feel. It will take several turns to get out of tight situations.
The 2022 Toyota Tundra comes in seven trim levels with two cab choices, three bed sizes, and three engines. Pricing for the Tundra lineup starts at $35,950. Our Limited tester with the CrewMax cab, 5-1/2-foot box came and TRD Off-Road package came with a sticker price of $60,188.
The Tundra was developed to squarely meet its competition. These challengers include the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, Ford F-150, Ram 1500, and Nissan Titan.
Did Toyota meet its match against these industry leaders? We believe so. It does so by creating a strong pickup truck form the ground up and giving us more of what we want. The result is a Tundra worthy to be included in this highly competitive segment.
Story Credits: CarSoup Editors
