Its sophistication helps it win hands down in the efficiency department, by giving it excellent fuel economy at 18/24 mpg (15.6/11.9 L/100km) city and highway respectively. Its above average economy, reliability and power is partly due to ETCS-I (Electronic Throttle Control System) and TDI (Toyota Direct Ignition).
How well does it go? A 0 to 60 time that falls under eight seconds is respectable to say the least. Yet it's the sound of the high-revving V8 that caused me to look twice at the steering wheel hub to make certain its insignia hadn't miraculously changed from Toyota to Lexus. On the highway, the Tundra pulls more like a fire-breathing GS400 than a stump pulling, 5th-wheel-towing, plywood hauling workingman's pick-up.
That in mind, it won't let you down if you need it for these more tedious pick-up truck tasks either. With a 7,200 lb (3,265 kg) towing capacity and a 1,900 lb (863 kg) payload there won't be many jobs that it will shy away from.
Toyota's superior interior quality and refinement is the hand holding the royal flush in this poker game for full-size pick-up dominance. There is no doubt it was designed as the base for the full-size Sequoia SUV expected next year. Its quality of interior plastics is higher in grade than those found in some European luxury cars and the fit and finish is again first rate. The seats are large and comfortable up front with all the necessary adjustments. Its multi-adjustable steering wheel is substantial too, allowing an easy reach to all the controls even for those with smaller hands. As expected on a Toyota, the gauges are simple, well-lit analog dials. The heater controls are simple dials as well. As has become the accepted norm for pick-ups, the Tundra has dual rear doors. Accessing the rear seats is easy, but it's not the roomiest in its class. Its cargo box is well equipped for hauling, with handy tie-hooks and indentations in the (optional) plastic liner.