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A fresh powertrain, improved suspension, and in-your-face TRD Pro model mean the new Toyota Tundra should be a solid, full-size pickup contender.
Toyota Updates the Tundra
Hard to believe but the new Toyota Tundra will be the first full-scale update in about 13 years, a lifetime in pickup truck years. Given its stiff competition from Ford, Chevy, and Ram, the new Tundra will need to impress customers, and based on details being teased out by Toyota, it appears to fit the bill.
New Toyota Tundra Exterior
So far, the high-end TRD Pro model has been used in photo and video releases and it looks like a beast. A massive front grille features three integrated LED light bars with TUNDRA stamped into the lower half and big TOYOTA lettering across the top. A trio of amber running lights, similar to those seen on Ford’s Raptor, could indicate a width of over 80” per US regulations.
A textured, camo-like surface can be seen on the lower front grille, fender flares, and tailgate surround. Full width TRD Pro letters are stamped into the tailgate itself and Falken Wildpeak all-terrain rubber wraps a new TRD Pro wheel design, finished in black. Notably, a six-lug pattern is in use versus the current five-lug setup, which would suggest a more potent powertrain and higher loading capacity.
Changes Under the Skin
Underneath, a major change is the use of coil springs with the solid rear axle versus leaf springs on the outgoing model. Currently, Ram utilizes this setup on their 1500 line of pickups, as does the F-150 Raptor partly due to the improved articulation and travel over a leaf-sprung configuration (Sidebar: Hat top to Toyota for their “Turning over a new leaf” press release note). Up front, Fox brand dampers can be seen, which will likely be reserved for the TRD Pro trim along with the skid plate and thick red anti-roll bar.
Toyota has only indicated the use of an iForce MAX powertrain but in the images released so far, three intake runners can be seen on one bank indicating a six-cylinder motor. The new global Land Cruiser sports a twin-turbo V6 cranking out 409 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. So, there’s a reasonable chance of it showing up on our shores under the 2022 Toyota Tundra’s hood. It would be more powerful and likely more efficient than the existing 381 horse, naturally aspirated 5.7-liter V8.
Also interesting is how the MAX letters seen on the engine cover are highlighted in blue, which is a branding treatment typically applied to Toyota’s hybrid vehicles. Given the current automotive electrification climate and Toyota’s prowess in this space, an electric-gas hybrid Tundra is probable. Ford is already selling the PowerBoost mildly hybridized F-150 with the fully electric Lightning just around the corner so it would make sense for Toyota to join the fray.
New Toyota Tundra Interior
The new Tundra’s Cockpit Red interior scheme is eye-popping with perforated, red leather upholstery and a TRD Pro logo embroidered on the headrest. The theme continues with a red hash mark stitched into the 12 o’clock position of the steering wheel. Toyota has a long history of offering rear glass on its SUVs and trucks that can be fully opened to the elements and the 2022 Toyota Tundra continues with this signature feature. Literally on top of that, a massive sliding panoramic sunroof combines to offer a truly airy cabin.
Infotainment details are scant but a wide display seen in the latest images indicate a size increase over the current 8” screen, which Toyota will need to compete with the 10 and 12-inch touchscreens found in competitor trucks. Speakers mounted in the A-pillars speak to premium audio options and the console features a Multi-Terrain Select knob for modes including Tow/Haul, DAC/Crawl and MTS.
A Qi wireless charging pad is going to be on tap with the new Toyota Tundra and in the press release video, the smartphone used to demonstrate this feature conspicuously displays a time of 9:19. Considering its 2022 model year designation, Toyota is no doubt planning the full reveal shortly, maybe on September 19th? Regardless of when the new Tundra hits dealer lots, it looks to be an impressive overhaul and a serious full-size pickup contender.
