Intuitive, work-ready cabin
Once you get on board, you quickly realize that this is no extravagant machine. Sure, there's the optional navigation system, but everything is straightforward and purposeful. My tester, a Double Cab 5.7L TRD model, was pretty well equipped too. Being a work tool and a recreational vehicle, the Tundra offers easy access to the various controls, making their manipulation intuitive. You can't afford to waste time searching for the climate control buttons when you're busy at work -- Toyota designers clearly understand this. Moreover, the cabin gets warm in a hurry, both in the front and in the back. Considering the vehicle's girth, I was not surprised to find plenty of storage solutions. On top of that, they're appropriately located.
The seats are large, comfortable and accommodating, much like the overall size of the Tundra. In addition, visibility is good and you enjoy a commanding view of the road ahead from the driver seat. Exterior noises are effectively kept out of the cabin, making the latter pretty quiet.
Class-worthy performance
The 5.7-liter, 8-cylinder i-Force engine allows surprising though not electrifying accelerations. It proves highly capable, even when towing a heavy load. In fact, the Tundra boasts a 10,000-lb maximum towing capacity. The transmission is competent and effective at delivering smooth shifts.
The Tundra's road manners are generally good, and the steering is up to the task. Stability during highway cruising is wonderful. The ride is smooth despite a firm suspension that never goes unnoticed over rough roads. Also, maneuverability is good, even in limited spaces like parking lots. With such a hefty towing capacity, braking performance is crucial; again, this truck manages to meet expectations.
Every modern safety feature comes standard with the Tundra. The decently sized, conveniently positioned sideview mirrors also work to enhance your confidence behind the wheel.
Once you get on board, you quickly realize that this is no extravagant machine. Sure, there's the optional navigation system, but everything is straightforward and purposeful. My tester, a Double Cab 5.7L TRD model, was pretty well equipped too. Being a work tool and a recreational vehicle, the Tundra offers easy access to the various controls, making their manipulation intuitive. You can't afford to waste time searching for the climate control buttons when you're busy at work -- Toyota designers clearly understand this. Moreover, the cabin gets warm in a hurry, both in the front and in the back. Considering the vehicle's girth, I was not surprised to find plenty of storage solutions. On top of that, they're appropriately located.
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| The seats are large, comfortable and accommodating. |
The seats are large, comfortable and accommodating, much like the overall size of the Tundra. In addition, visibility is good and you enjoy a commanding view of the road ahead from the driver seat. Exterior noises are effectively kept out of the cabin, making the latter pretty quiet.
Class-worthy performance
The 5.7-liter, 8-cylinder i-Force engine allows surprising though not electrifying accelerations. It proves highly capable, even when towing a heavy load. In fact, the Tundra boasts a 10,000-lb maximum towing capacity. The transmission is competent and effective at delivering smooth shifts.
The Tundra's road manners are generally good, and the steering is up to the task. Stability during highway cruising is wonderful. The ride is smooth despite a firm suspension that never goes unnoticed over rough roads. Also, maneuverability is good, even in limited spaces like parking lots. With such a hefty towing capacity, braking performance is crucial; again, this truck manages to meet expectations.
Every modern safety feature comes standard with the Tundra. The decently sized, conveniently positioned sideview mirrors also work to enhance your confidence behind the wheel.
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| The 5.7-liter, 8-cylinder i-Force engine allows surprising though not electrifying accelerations. |