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2011 Toyota Tundra Double Cab SR5 4x4 5.7L Review

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Rob Rothwell
i-Force engine delivers impressive performance
Counter-intuitive to its civility is the wallop of power the i-Force can deliver when demanded.

The larger i-Force V8 powerplant churns out 381 horsepower @ 5,600 rpm and 401 pound-feet of torque @ 3,600 rpm. (Photo: Rob Rothwell/Auto123.com)

Big i-Force power
At 5.7 litres of displacement, it’s a big engine in these days of restraint, but sometimes there’s no replacement for big. This is the Tundra’s optional engine, which ups the output significantly over the 310 horsepower of the base 4.6-litre V8.

The larger i-Force V8 powerplant churns out 381 horsepower @ 5,600 rpm and 401 pound-feet of torque @ 3,600 rpm, thanks in part to variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i). These are impressive figures, which contribute to the generous 4,445-kg (9,800-lb) tow capacity of the 5.7-litre i-Force Double Cab Tundra.

Figures not so impressive pertain to fuel economy, which is rated at a wallet-crushing 16.7 L/100 km and 12.1 L/100 km city and highway driving, respectively. According to on-board data, my consumption for city driving averaged in the range of 17 L/100 km, which is not far off the posted number.

In aid of towing chores, the Tundra’s 6-speed automatic transmission is fitted with a Tow/Haul mode and a transmission cooler. And to assist in keeping it all together on the road, the Tundra is equipped with an electronic vehicle stability program.

Should an off-road excursion be undertaken, the Tundra’s got it covered.

True 4x4 at the flick of a switch
Turning a switch instantly converts the Tundra from two-wheel-drive (2WD) to four-wheel-drive (4WD). A further twist of the switch engages low-range gearing to enact serious off-road functionality. Skid plates protect the electronic transfer case and engine while an engine oil cooler prevents things running too hot.

Traction control is standard Tundra fare; missing, though, is a hill-descent control system to regulate speed on steep, slippery drops when off-roading. Ground clearance for my tester is pegged at 26.5 cm (10.4 in).

Turning a switch instantly converts the Tundra from two-wheel-drive (2WD) to four-wheel-drive (4WD). (Photo: Toyota)
Rob Rothwell
Rob Rothwell
Automotive expert
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