Take a look at this new 2020 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro crew cab in army green color. It’s an eye-catching color, but is this new Tundra outdated on arrival? Is it still relevant? Nathan and I go at it on this episode of “No, You’re Wrong!”.
2020 Toyota Tundra
The new Tundra you see here is based on the same architecture that came out in 2008. The truck has been updated and refreshed several times since then, but the chassis, the cab, and the engine are all still the same.
The only engine option in the Tundra is the 5.7-liter V8 with 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque. It’s still mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission and a 4.30 rear axle ratio. The EPA rating on the 4×4 Tundra is 13 MPG city, 17 MPG highway, and 14 MPG combined.
Ford and GM offer up to six distinct powertrain choices in the half-ton trucks. The latest 3.0-liter turbo-diesel engines are capable of 29 MPG on the highway in 4×4 trim.
While the Tundra cabin is roomy, the overall design is showing its age. There is a relatively small infotainment screen in the center with just one low-resolution rear camera view.
Toyota updated the Tundra with their Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) driver assistance package, but the adaptive cruise and lane departure systems are not as advanced or smooth as in some of the competitor trucks.
On the flip side, the TRD Pro off-road package comes with very well tuned FOX shocks and suspension system. It makes for a comfortable ride on and off-road.
Speaking of off-roading, the Tundra does not offer a selectable locking rear differential (it uses a limited slip differential). While the ground clearance is a competitive 10.6 inches, the departure angle is on the worst in the segment.
Finally, the Tundra has a competitive starting price of around $34,000 for a truck with a V8 engine. The fully-optioned crew cab 4×4 TRD Pro you see here has a sticker price of just over $54,000.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Is the new Tundra still competitive aor is it simply outdated?
