2022 Tundra Unboxing

Overview
Domestic automakers have a monopoly on the full-size pickup truck segment, but the 2022 Toyota Tundra appeals to a slightly different audience, particularly those loyal to Toyota. Most half-ton pickups have a sturdy, albeit antiquated, leaf-spring rear suspension. The Tundra features coil springs out back that make it ride and drive much better than most. Plus, it can still tow up to 12,000 pounds and comes standard with a suite of driver assists. Unlike its domestic rivals, the Tundra isn't available with a V-8. Gasp! The lone engine option is a twin-turbo V-6, but it's available with a hybrid system that's good for 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. With a cabin that's considerably prettier than its predecessor and an infotainment system that offers a 14.0-inch touchscreen, there are numerous reasons the 2022 Tundra has the goods to take on the Americans.

What's New for 2022?
Toyota gives the Tundra a much-needed, total redesign after the previous generation went largely unchanged since its debut in 2007. Although it was refreshed for the 2014 model year, it struggled to steal sales from domestic half-ton rivals such as the Ford F-150, the Ram 1500, the Chevy Silverado 1500, and the GMC Sierra 1500. The new Tundra still isn't expected to outsell any of those alternatives, but its myriad improvements should make it much more competitive and desirable when it reaches dealerships this winter. A new top-of-the-line Capstone trim level features 22-inch wheels, flashy chrome, and a full suite of fancy features.

Pricing and Which One to Buy
SR $37,645
SR5 $43,150
Limited $49,245
Limited Hybrid $54,695
Platinum $59,385
1794 Edition $60,085
Platinum Hybrid $62,785
1794 Edition Hybrid $63,815
TRD Pro Hybrid $69,200
Capstone Hybrid $75,925
The 2022 Tundra has a higher starting price than its domestic rivals. However, the Toyota's entry-level SR trim has more desirable standard features, including a 379-hp twin-turbo V-6 and a coil-spring rear suspension. We think the one to get is the SR5 with the TRD Off-Road package that brings an electronically locking rear differential, unique wheels, upgraded suspension, and other additions.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The 2022 Tundra is the only full-size pickup truck that's not available with a V-8 engine. Instead, it's only offered with a twin-turbo V-6 and a 10-speed automatic transmission. This engine comes in three different potencies. On the base SR trim, the nonhybrid engine develops 348 horsepower and 405 pound-feet of torque. Otherwise, it makes 389 horses and 479 pound-feet. At our test track, our nonhybrid Limited test truck delivered a 6.1-second zero-to-60-mph time. The hybrid version features an electric motor integrated into the transmission, which allows pure electric driving at low speeds. The combination generates a combined 437 horses and 583 pound-feet and trimmed the zero-to-60-mph time to just 5.7 seconds. Also changed from its predecessor is the rear suspension, which previously utilized a leaf-spring setup. The Tundra now utilizes a more refined coil-spring rear suspension that improves its ride and handling characteristics. This was evident with the versions we've driven. Toyota continues to offer the popular TRD Off-Road and TRD Sport packages. The former includes an off-road suspension, skid plates, and unique wheels. The latter includes a lowered suspension and 20-inch wheels. Those seeking maximum off-road capabilities will want the TRD Pro, which features a lifted suspension and exclusive dampers as well as a special set of black 18-inch wheels mounted on all-terrain tires.

Towing and Payload Capacity
The Tundra is capable of towing up to 12,000 pounds, which is slightly lower than other full-size trucks. The F-150, for example, can pull up to 14,000 pounds. The Tundra also has a maximum payload capacity of 1940 pounds. Again, several other half-ton pickups can haul more weight in their cargo bed, with the Ford maxing out at 3250 pounds of payload.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
With the nonhybrid powertrain, the two-wheel drive Tundra is rated for up to 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway; all-wheel drive reduces those figures by 1 mpg each. The hybrid model is rated at up to 20 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. On our 75-mph highway route, which is part of our extensive testing regimen, the hybrid model delivered only 19 mpg. For more information about the Tundra's fuel-economy ratings, visit the EPA website.

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