The Toyota Tundra line isn't quite as complicated as some other full-size pickup line-ups, but it still offers plenty of potential for confusion. For 2008, there are 44 different Tundra configurations, with three cab styles seating from two to six, three bed lengths and three engine options. Trim levels range from basic work configurations with vinyl flooring to luxury grade, with leather, navigation and a rear-seat DVD player. Payload ratings run from 1410 pounds to 2060 pounds, while towing capacity tops out at 10,800 pounds, which is among best in class.
Tundra shoppers should first consider cab style or seating space. The next choice is either the V6 or one of two V8 engines, and finally the trim package or level of standard equipment
The Tundra Regular Cab 4x2 ($22,290) is the least expensive model. It's powered by Toyota's 236-hp 4.0-liter V6, with 266 pound-feet of torque, a five-speed automatic transmission and the 6.5-foot, standard-length bed. The eight-foot long bed ($330) and either a 271-hp, 4.7-liter V8 ($1,140) or a 381-hp 5.7-liter V8 ($1,335) are optional. The bigger V8 also adds a six-speed automatic. (All NewCarTestDrive.com prices are manufacturer's suggested retail prices, which may change at any time without notice; prices do not include destination charges.)
The Regular Cab 4x4 ($26,480) is the least expensive four-wheel-drive Tundra. It comes standard with the 4.7-liter V8, which generates 313 pound-feet of torque, and Toyota's electronically controlled, part-time four-wheel-drive system with a two-speed transfer case. The Regular Cab is the workhorse edition Tundra, with a fabric-upholstered, 40/20/40-split bench seat, vinyl floor covering, column shift and manual-crank windows. Standard equipment includes a four-speaker, AM/FM/CD stereo with auxiliary audio input, manual dual-zone air conditioning, tilt steering and Toyota's gas-boosted, tailgate-assist system. The standard wheels are 18-inch steel.
Double Cab Tundra Grade 4x2 ($24,715) comes with the 4.0-liter V6 and standard bed. The Tundra Double Cab features rear side doors, forward-hinged like on an SUV, and seats for as many as six. The 4.7-liter V8 ($145), 5.7-liter V8 ($1,335) and long bed ($990) are optional on Tundra Double Cab models. The Tundra Grade equipment basically matches the Regular Cab, adding carpet in place of the vinyl flooring, a tachometer and outside temperature indicator. The Double Cab Tundra Grade 4x4 ($27,910) adds four-wheel-drive and the 4.7-liter V8.
The Double Cab SR5 4x2 ($26,105) and 4x4 ($29,900) add lots of standard equipment, including power front bucket seats, a floor-mounted shifter and center console, power windows and heated mirrors, central locking, cruise control, a stereo with six speakers and an in-dash six-CD changer, heavy duty starter and battery, and mud guards.
The Double Cab Limited 4X2 ($34,460) and 4x4 ($37,510) represent the most luxurious trim package. Both come standard with the 4.7-liter V8, though they are only offered with the standard bed. Standard equipment includes heated, leather-trimmed front buckets, JBL audio with 12 speakers, sliding rear glass, an auto-dimming rearview mirror with compass and programmable garage-door opener and front and rear park-assist.
The CrewMax Tundra Grade 4x2 ($27,685) and 4x4 ($30,735) feature full-size rear side doors and more rear-cab space, with a sliding, fold-flat rear bench seat. They come standard with the 4.7-liter V8, but are only offered with a 5.5-foot short bed. The 5.7-liter V8 and six-speed automatic are optional ($1,190). A CrewMax SR5 4x2 ($29,675) and 4x4 ($32,725), and CrewMax Limited 4x2 ($37,760) and 4x4 ($40,810) are also available. Standard equipment on each trim level basically matches that on the Double Cab models, though the CrewMax adds an overhead console and a vertical sliding power rear window.
Options have been repackaged for 2008 in groups designated by letters. These vary in price and exact content depending on model and region, and include things like a navigation system with back-up camera, rear-seat DVD player, cold-weather features, off-road packages and 20-inch aluminum wheels. There are few factory-installed stand-alone options, but dozens of dealer-installed accessories, such as bed liners.
Safety features that come standard on every model include front- and side-impact airbags for driver and front passenger (the latter with an off switch in Regular Cab models), side curtain airbags with rollover sensor, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, brake assist and electronic brake-force distribution, electronic stability control with traction control and a limited slip differential.