Toyota is counting on their all-new, second-generation 2007 Tundra to loosen the grip that the domestic manufacturers have on the full-size pickup segment.
If you remember, Toyota's first-generation Tundra hit the streets in 1999 as a 2000 model. That model really did not stack up well against The Big 3 in terms of size and hauling capability.
So, Toyota engineers went back to the drawing board. In doing so, they targeted folks that mostly use their trucks for work, not play.
The result: The
2007 Toyota Tundra is stronger and larger in every dimension, and features a fully boxed frame, three cab styles, three bed lengths and three engine choices, including a new 5.7-liter V8.
Toyota is serious about the all-new Tundra and to prove that they added a $1.2-billion assembly plant smack-dab in the heart of truck country, San Antonio, Texas.
For its first year on the market, Toyota is planning on selling 200,000 copies. While that number isn't nearly as large as what some of Toyota's competitors sell, Tundra is going to make a significant impression in the full-size pickup segment.
For those that need a full-size pickup, the 2007 Tundra truly meets those needs. Tundra is available in 31 different model configurations (more than double the previous generation) and features many firsts. Tundra is the first full-size pickup with standard front seat side and roll-sensing side curtain airbags in all models.
The 2007 Toyota Tundra comes in Regular Cab, Double Cab and Crew Max body styles. The Regular Cab, which offers seating for up to three passengers, can be had with either a 6.5-ft or 8-ft bed.
The Double Cab, which features four front-hinged swing-out doors and seating for up to six, also can be had with either a 6.5-ft or 8-ft bed. The Tundra Crew Max, which offers more cabin space than Dodge's Mega Cab, comes only with a 5.5-ft bed.
All Tundra beds are stamped to accept 2x8 ft. lumber dividers and feature a lockable tailgate that can be effortlessly opened and closed with just two fingers.
The standard engine for Regular and Double Cab models is a 236-horsepower 4.0-liter V6. A 271-horsepower 4.7-liter V8 is optional (standard in Crew Max). For those needing a few more ponies to haul the load, Toyota offers a 381-horsepower 5.7-liter V8, which is available in all models. All Tundra engines use regular-grade (87-octane) fuel.
The V6 and smaller V8 engines come teamed with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The larger V8 features a 6-speed automatic. Any configuration can be equipped as a two-wheel drive (4x2) or four-wheel drive (4x4).
Towing capacity is 10,800 pounds for a Regular Cab 4x2 model. The towing capacity drops off slightly when opting for a larger cab and/or four-wheel drive. For example, the lowest towing capacity is 10,100-lbs for the Crew Max 4x4.
That's still plenty of muscle for your hauling needs. My test model was a Tundra 4x4 Double Cab with a 6.5-ft bed and large V8 engine. I found the 5.7-liter V8 to be strong, powerful, and quiet. I also liked the 6-speed automatic transmission in my tester, it delivered smooth, almost imperceptible shifts.
As expected, the 2007 Toyota Tundra feels very solid. On the road, Tundra feels more like a serious, rugged truck than a Camry, and that's a good thing. Tundra's brakes are impressive, too, offering excellent stopping power.
Although Tundra never lets you forget you're driving a work-capable truck, it delivers a smooth and quiet ride on the highway. I was very impressed with Tundra's overall driving characteristics.
Tundra comes in three trim levels: base DX, SR5 and Limted. Regular Cabs feature DX trim, which includes dual-zone air conditioning, a CD stereo, and anti-lock brakes.
Both the Double Cab and Crew Max come either in SR5 or top-of-the-line Limited trim. The SR5 adds chrome bumpers, standard power windows and locks and heated mirrors, remote keyless entry and more.
The Limited adds alloy wheels, leather seats, JBL sound system with 6-disc CD changer, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, and more.
Major options include a navigation system and a clever rear backup camera that helps when hitching to your trailer. If you're looking for a well-built and capable full-size pickup, Tundra is sure to please.
Prices start at about $22,000 for a Regular Cab 4x2 model; Double Cab starts at about $26,000; Crew Max begins at about $30,000; and Crew Max 4x4 Limited model is priced at about $41,000.
2007 Toyota Tundra 4x4 Double Cab Limited
Engine 5.7-liter (381 hp) V8
Transmission 6-speed automatic
Drive Type 4WD
Fuel Economy 14 city/18 highway
Base Price $38,550
As Tested $40,725 (includes $645 for destination)
Website http://www.toyota.com