Tis an oldie, but the 2020 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro does it all
While there is a lot of criticism out there (including from us) regarding the age of the 2020 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro’s design, it’s still a great truck. While it has old tech and one of the oldest drivetrains among full-size pickup trucks, it’s still a potent combination. It’s STILL competitive and many laud the quality and reliability of the big Toyota.
With that being said, we wondered how this burly truck would handle something simple, yet challenging; towing a small trailer. Sure, it sounds easy, and we already know how the Tundra performs with a maximum load, but small trailers hauling ATVs and UTVs are extremely popular.
The 2020 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro can pull up to 9,800 lbs when properly equipped.
Many off-road truck owners camp and/or have toys to haul. It goes well with the lifestyle. With this in mind, Andre thought, “why not see how it performs with this setup?”
About 5-thousand pounds and 30 miles of highway
Andre wanted to see how this load towed and how it taxed the Toyota’s big V8 (it didn’t). With its 381 horsepower 5.7-liter V8 that makes 401 lb-ft of torque, it barely noticed the load. The old six-speed automatic transmission is still the only option, and it’s hooked up to a 4:30 rear-end. That means, it’s great for towing, but not so super for good gas mileage.
It is rated by the EPA at 13 mpg city, 17 mpg highway and 14 mpg combined.
Andre like:
- The trailer brake controller is a welcome addition to the Tundra and, for the most part, Andre was pleased with its placement and ease of use.
- The TRD exhaust sound
- It tows well
- Mirrors (which are okay for small trailers)
- Excellent ride (off-road suspension)
- 38 gallon fuel tank
- He loves the rear window that retracts
- MPG was better than expected
Andre no-like:
- Lack of cameras
- Old interior design
- Squat
- Lack of modern goodies
- Ancient overall design
- Fake hood scoop
- MPG – is lowest in its class
All in all, this old Tundra is still a great truck and we are very fond of it, despite its faults.
