The 2022 Toyota Tundra line brings a new i-Force Max hybrid powertrain which supplements the 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 engine with HV Electric Motor system, ramping the power output up to 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. The engine is married to a 10-speed Electronically Controlled automatic Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) featuring sequential shift mode, Drive Mode select, and Tow/Haul driving modes. Available off-roading features include Multi-Terrain Select (MTS), Crawl Control (CRAWL), and Downhill Assist Control (DAC).
The 4X4 models are equipped with the 4WDemand part-time 4-Wheel Drive with electronically-controlled 2-speed transfer case and Automatic Limited-Slip Differential. The fuel economy for this hybrid powertrain is rated at 18 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway, for a combined average of 19 mpg.
The Tundra’s 10-speed automatic transmission provides a prompt and smooth transfer through the gears. Crawl Control uses sensors to control the throttle and braking to slowly move through difficult terrains, such as sand, deep mud, and rock.
The Tundra TRD Pro rides on TRD Pro off-road suspensions with Fox coil-overs, and Falken Wildpeak all-terrain tires, which are great off-road, but not so good on pavement. Nonetheless, the Tundra offers reliable quality steering and ride comfort.
A great Tundra feature is the super strong plastic composite bed liner. No worries about scars and dents. The bed is partnered with the attractive retractable tailgate step, making it easier to climb into the bed.
The maximum payload and towing capacity differ among models and also depend on selected equipment. The TRD Pro model is rated at 1,600 pounds for max payload and 11,175 pounds for maximum towing capability.
Trailer Backup Guide with Straight Path Assist is an available driver assistance feature that keeps the trailer going in a straight line while backing up. My difficulty was getting the truck “lined up straight.” Once accomplished, it was easy.
Outside, my Tundra was wearing Solar Octane (bright orange) paint, resting on 18-inch BBS forged-aluminum wheels. Front illumination is provided by auto-leveling LED headlights and LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL). The black Toyota heritage grille had an integrated LED light bar, and the bottom is protected by TRD aluminum skid plate. The composite bed has an 120V/400W AC power outlet and LED bed lights.
Inside you find a 14-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia system with JBL premium 12-speaker (including subwoofer) and amplifier system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported.
Tundra offered lots of legroom and easy access through back doors. Seats were comfortable with a long bottom cushion, providing better thigh and leg support. The back had a relaxing backseat angle.
The transmission hump and hard fixed plastic binnacles were a take away, otherwise the cabin comfort was very good.
Tundra drives well and steering is superb. Surprisingly, it handles well even in city traffic with the agility in the driving capabilities.
Dimensions and Stats: Overall length: 233.6 inches Overall width: 81.6 inches Overall height: 78 inches Bed length: 65.6 inches Bed depth: 58.7 inches Fuel capacity: 32.2 gallons Range: 612 miles
Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles Powertrain Warranty 2 years/25,000 miles Roadside Assistance
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price $69,315.00
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or at durhlcaussey@gmail.com.