2011 Toyota Tundra Gets More Powerful Base Engine

• 4.0-liter V6 Adds Dual Independent VVT-i for 270 Horsepower

• New Trailer Sway Control Standard for All Models

• Model Line Streamlined to Focus on Popular Configurations

TORRANCE, Calif. – Toyota has streamlined the Tundra full-size pickup truck line for 2011, focusing on the 28 most in-demand configurations. In addition, the Tundra's base 4.0-liter V6 engine gains Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) for 2011, increasing power and performance. The 310-hp 4.6-liter and 381-hp 5.7-liter V8's continue across the Tundra line.

Tundra's comprehensive suite of towing equipment gains standard Trailer Sway Control for all 2011 models. This feature uses Tundra's Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system to help counteract forces on the truck caused by a swaying trailer in tow.

The 2011 Tundra is offered in two grades (Tundra and Tundra Limited): three cab styles (Regular, Double Cab and Crew Max): three wheelbase lengths (126.8, 145.7 and 164.6 inches, depending on model and configuration): three bed lengths (78.7, 97.6 and for CrewMax only, 66.7-inches): and with three engine choices (one V6 and two V8's).

In addition to the two model grades, Tundra offers the SR5 upgrade package that adds popular options at a value price. A Tundra Work Truck Package, also offered at a special value, is aimed at commercial truck buyers or customers who need a tough, no-frills truck with exceptional cargo and towing capacity. The package features vinyl seating and rubber flooring and is available in Regular and Double Cab configurations with any of the Tundra's three engine choices.

At the other end of the spectrum, the Platinum Package available for the Tundra CrewMax Limited models offers numerous luxury features, such as heated and ventilated seats, sunroof, and wood grain-style trim.

Performance

The 4.0-liter Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) V6 that's standard in Tundra Regular and Double Cab models gets a performance boost for 2011 with the adoption of Dual Independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). This is the same technology found on the 4.6-liter and 5.7-liter V8 engines. Horsepower increases to 270 from 236, and peak torque is now 278 lb.-ft. up from 266 lb-ft. The V6 is teamed with a five-speed automatic transmission with uphill/downhill shift logic.

The 4.6-liter i-Force V8 was added to the Tundra line for the 2010 model year and is available in all 2011 models. The DOHC 4.6 V8 features dual independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i). With 310 horsepower, 327 lb.-ft. of torque, the 4.6-liter V8 delivers a versatile combination of power and efficiency.

In addition to its impressive 381 horsepower at 5,000 rpm, the 5.7-liter i-Force V8 produces 401 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 3,600 rpm. Like the other Tundra engines, it uses an aluminum cylinder block and DOHC heads, along with Dual VVT-i. Tundra engines are equipped with the Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS). Butterfly valves inside the intake manifold switch the length of the intake runners in two stages, based on engine RPM and throttle angle, to optimize efficiency across the engine speed range.

Both the i-Force 5.7-liter and 4.6-liter V8 engines are teamed with a six-speed automatic transmission. A fluid warmer quickly brings the transmission fluid up to operating temperature to optimize cold-weather performance. Both V8's meet the Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV II) emissions certification.

Capability, Handling and Ride

Tundra's advanced TripleTech frame uses wide, full-boxed frame rails for the front portion, a reinforced C-channel under the cab and an open C-channel underneath the bed to maximize strength, ride quality and durability. The double A-arm front suspension uses coil-over spring shock units, while a front-mounted steering rack helps enhance steering feel and response. The rear suspension uses staggered shocks mounted outboard of the springs to improve the shocks' dampening efficiency. Spring rates are tuned to provide a flat vehicle stance when fully loaded.

The Tundra is equipped with standard 18 x 8 inch steel wheels with 255/70 R18 tires. Limited grade models get standard 18 x 8 inch aluminum alloy wheels with wider 275/65 R18 tires and optional 20-inch alloy wheels with 275/55 R20 tires are optional for Limited. An optional TRD Off-Road Package combines off-road tuned suspension featuring Bilstein gas-charged mono-tube shock absorbers, 285/70 R17 B.F. Goodrich off-road tires on 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps and special graphics.

The standard four-wheel disc brakes use large ventilated rotors: 13.9 inches and 1.26-inches thick, with four-piston calipers in front; 13.6 x 0.71-inch with two-piston calipers in the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA) are standard on all Tundra models. EBD optimizes brake pressure at each wheel for greater control under braking, especially when cornering. BA is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking. If the driver has not pressed firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage ABS, the system supplements the applied braking power until pedal pressure is released.

The standard Automatic Limited-Slip Differential (Auto-LSD) helps provide better acceleration in deep sand or mud and on mixed-friction surfaces. Compared to a conventional mechanical limited slip differential, the Auto-LSD system is much more responsive and has better wear characteristics. The combination of Auto-LSD and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) as standard equipment on every Tundra model was a significant first in the full-size pickup segment.

The Tundra's VSC system integrates traction control (TRAC) and enhances traction on or off-road by helping to keep the vehicle going on its intended course. VSC detects front-wheel slide and rear-wheel slide during cornering and attempts to help control either condition with throttle intervention and/or by braking individual wheels.

Integration of these technologies also brings driver-selectable versatility to tackle just about any road surface or driving condition. In 'normal' mode, VSC, TRAC and Auto-LSD all function to help enable traction and control capability. 'TRAC Off' activates Auto-LSD to help extricate the Tundra from extreme conditions. The 'VSC Off' mode turns off all three of these systems.

Tundra 4x4 models use a part-time, electronically controlled four-wheel drive system featuring a six-pinion planetary reduction gearset to provide 4x2, 4x4 Hi and 4x4 Lo ranges. The driver selects the drive mode using a dial on the dash. The rear differential in V6 and 4.6-liter V8 Tundra models uses a 9.5-inch ring gear, and the i-Force 5.7-liter models step up to a 10.5-inch ring gear – one of the largest in the segment.

Safety

All Tundra models feature the Toyota STAR SAFETY SYSTEM™ as standard, giving Tundra one of the most comprehensive arrays of safety technology in the full-size pickup truck category. The system includes ABS, EBD, BA, VSC and TRAC. Tundra was the first full-size pickup to feature standard front seat-mounted side and roll-sensing side curtain airbags in all models. Three-point seatbelts and adjustable headrests for all seating positions were likewise firsts in the segment. The front seatbelts include pretensioners and force limiters. All models are equipped with driver and front passenger knee airbags.

Comprehensive Towing Package

An available Tow Package on all Tundra i-Force V8 models increases towing capacity significantly, up to 10,400 pounds, depending on the model and drivetrain (see specifications sheet). A one-piece towing receiver is integrated into the frame prior to bed installation. The structure runs nearly two feet down the length of the frame and attaches to each side around the rear spring shackles' cross-member with 12 bolts. Tow Package rear springs help provide level full-load rear suspension height and maintain full range of suspension travel.

The Tow Package also upgrades Tundra's cooling and electrical systems. An integrated water-to-oil engine oil cooler helps handle the demands of towing under a full load, and a power steering fluid cooler is added, as well. The seven-pin towing hitch connector sits above the hitch to help avoid damage during high-departure-angle driving. Electrical upgrades include an under-dash connector pre-wire for a third-party trailer brake controller, both seven- and a four-pin trailer brake connectors near the hitch, and an up-rated alternator. On 5.7-liter models, telescoping towing mirrors are available.

With the Towing Package, the six-speed automatic transmission gains a TOW/HAUL shift mode, selectable by a dedicated switch. The TOW/HAUL shift mode applies specific logic for adjusting the throttle sensitivity and transmission shift control, favoring and holding lower gears when accelerating or decelerating to help enhance control and safety. New for 2011, and standard for all models, Trailer Sway Control uses the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) to help counteract handling forces applied to the truck in an effort to minimize the impact of trailer sway.

Exterior Design

Tundra offers three cab styles: two-door Regular Cab, four-door Double Cab, and the super-sized four-door CrewMax with the segment's leading rear-seat legroom. From the side, the Tundra's distinct 'barbell' form with pronounced wheel arches conveys the truck's inherent strength. Character lines and fender flares add dimension and strength.

Tundra Regular Cab and Double Cab models are offered in standard bed (78.7-inch) or long bed (97.6-inch) configurations while the CrewMax comes with a 66.7-inch bed; all beds are 22.2-in. deep. The Tundra's lockable all-steel tailgate, with tailgate assist, eases down slowly with no slam and can easily be removed.

A standard cargo lamp illuminates the bed at night. A deck rail system, standard on Limited grade models and available on all others, adds to cargo bed versatility. Featuring four adjustable tie-down cleats connected to the rails of the all-steel bed, the rail system can be used to secure many types of loads, with a 220-lb. rating per attachment.

Genuine Toyota Accessories available for the Tundra include a number of cargo bed enhancements: tonneau cover, bed mat, bed liner, bed extender, deck rail accessories, storage boxes, cargo divider, tie-downs and utility hooks.

Interior Design

Tundra is designed for 'true truckers,' customers who place the greatest demands on their pickups, including ranchers, foremen and construction workers. The driver is surrounded by a U-shaped 'command and control' center that provides an unobstructed view of the road and gauges, while keeping all controls within easy reach. The large door handles and easy-to-turn control knobs can be operated even while wearing work gloves. The 3.4-liter upper glove box can hold a standard Thermos™ bottle, with additional space available in the 9.5-liter lower glovebox.

The huge center console in bucket-seat models can hold a laptop computer or hanging file folder storage, which was a pickup truck first. There are two 12-volt DC power outlets, one on the dash and one in the center console. CrewMax models add a third outlet at the rear of the console; outlets remain live for up to two hours after the ignition is switched off.

The Tundra Regular Cab offers generous behind-the-seat storage, and the Double Cab features front-hinged rear doors that open up to 80 degrees. Double Cab models provide a roomy rear seat with a 22-degree backrest angle and 34.7 inches of rear legroom -- on par with some midsize sedans. The Tundra CrewMax has limo-like maximum rear legroom of 44.5 inches, plus the segment's only reclining and sliding rear seat. A 10-inch slide range allows the owner to tailor passenger comfort and room for onboard cargo. CrewMax models have additional storage under the rear seat.

On Double Cab and CrewMax models, the standard power rear windows retract completely into the doors. Regular and Double Cab models offer an optional split sliding rear window. A power vertical slide-down rear window is standard on CrewMax.

A concealed compartment to the right of the shift lever can hold a Thomas® guidebook. The built-in toolbox behind the rear seat in all models provides clean, accessible storage for the jack, handle and lug wrench. In Double Cab and CrewMax models, the rear seat backs fold in an easy one-hand operation to provide a flat floor storage area. The front doors have large storage pockets and can also hold two 22-ounce bottles. Rear doors on Double Cab and CrewMax each hold one bottle.

Comfort and Convenience

Inside Tundra, richly textured fabrics and deep-grain leathers are available in four colors. A standard manual tilt and telescoping steering wheel was a first in the segment, and Limited grade offers an available power tilt and telescoping steering wheel. The Limited grade's four-spoke steering wheel features standard audio controls; they're available for Double Cab models with the optional JBL® audio system or navigation system.

Tundra offers in-demand user technology, including available Bluetooth® phone compatibility, high-end JBL audio and an optional navigation system with integrated wide-screen rear backup camera. Tundra-grade models come with a standard AM/FM/MP3/CD, integrated satellite radio receiver (subscription required), an auxiliary input and six speakers (four speakers on Regular Cab). Limited models come standard with a JBL AM/FM/MP3 six-disc in-dash CD changer featuring an integrated satellite radio receiver with a complimentary three-month trial subscription to XM® Satellite Radio, AUX/USB input with iPod® connectivity, hands-free phone capability and music streaming via Bluetooth, steering wheel-mounted audio controls and 12 speakers with subwoofer (10 speakers on Double Cab).

All Tundra-grade models come standard with a versatile dual-zone manual climate control system including a seven-speed blower, sync-mode and a replaceable dust and pollen filter. Limited grade models feature a dual-zone automatic climate control system. The Tundra Limited grade Double Cab and Crew Max models add front and rear parking sonar, cold kit and mudguards to the standard equipment list. A multifunction auto-dimming rear view mirror, standard on Limited grade models and optional for others, integrates a digital compass and HomeLink® transceiver.

Standard High Solar Energy Absorbing (HSEA) glass helps filter solar heat and most UV (skin-sensitive) light energy entering the vehicle. This reduces occupants' sun exposure, helps to keep the interior cooler and enhances durability of interior materials. Limited grade models receive standard IR-cut glass, further reducing solar levels.

Other notable features that distinguish the Limited grade models include a chrome billet grille; chrome power-retractable, heated auto-dimming side-view mirrors; leather-trimmed, heated power-adjustable front bucket seats (10-way for driver, four-way for passenger) and rear door privacy glass. Features inspired by luxury sedans include Optitron gauges and a multi-information center.

Options

The Tundra grade offers two optional audio systems. One features an AM/FM/CD, integrated XM Radio receiver, hands-free phone and streaming music via Bluetooth, AUX/USB inputs and up to six speakers. The other combines navigation and a value positioned six-speaker AM/FM/CD, auxiliary input, plus a backup camera.

CrewMax models offer a Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) system that combines a nine-inch wide-screen LCD monitor, DVD player, two sets of wireless headphones and remote control. The available DVD navigation system also includes a rear backup camera. This feature is particularly useful when backing up the Tundra to a trailer, or for positioning a boat trailer on a launch ramp.

The Limited grade offers an optional power memory package for the seats, mirrors and tilt/telescopic steering wheel. CrewMax models offer an optional power tilt/sliding sunroof with an automatic variable-position wind deflector.

Limited Warranty

Toyota's 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation. Toyota dealers have complete details on the limited warranty.

by Toyota

Introduced at the beginning of the new millennium, the Toyota Tundra featured a refined V8 engine and Toyota's distinct reputation for durability and reliability. Originally going into production in 1999 as a 2000 year model, the Tundra had an all-American look and feet and came with something that the T100 never had; a fierce V8 engine underneath choice. Enthusiasts believed that the Tundra was the first import-brand full-size pickup that could face off against the Big Three's pickups. Nominated for the North American Truck of the Year award, the Tundra was also named as Motor Trend Magazine's Truck of the Year in 2000 and 2008. As of the 2007 model year, the Tundra carried 17% of the 1/2 ton full-size pickup market and single handedly beat the GMC Sierra in monthly sales. Today, the Tundra is assembled in San Antonio, Texas and Princeton, Indiana.

Strangely enough though, the first-generation Tundra was more popular with recreational pickup buyers than actual hard-core users. The Tundra was aimed more at those seeking an easy-to-drive commuter or customers tat wanted a utility vehicle that was capable of handling weekend trips to the local home depot. Not quite full-size in dimensions or work capacity, independent contractors or people with heavy trailers or boats to pull, were not interested in the original Tundra's limited body configurations, lower tow ratings and smaller size.

Sharing many similarities with the unpopular Toyota T100, the first generation Tundra was also quite similar to the more popular Toyota Tacoma. Though the Tundra was slightly larger than the T100, it unfortunately was perceived as being too small and ‘car-like' and wasn't any threat at all to other domestic pickup trucks.

One of the largest similarities was the utilization of the 3.4 liter V6 engine, which had been the top of the line engine in both the T100 and the Tacoma and was the base engine in the Tundra. Available engine choices for the Tundra included a 24V 3.4 liter V6 engine that produced 190 hp and 200 lb/ft of torque and a 32 valve 4.7 liter V8 engine that produced 245 hp and 315 lb/ft of torque. Sales of the Tundra were 120,000, more than double the rate of the T100. The Tundra also had the largest initial vehicle sales for Toyota in its entire history at the time.

Already available at the time was a Toyota Racing Development (TRD) derived supercharger engine for the 3.4 liter V6 that bumped the horsepower up to 260 hp and achieved 260 lb/ft of torque. The TRD also introduced a supercharger for the V8 engine near the end of the second year of production for the Tundra that pushed the V8 numbers to the mid 300 hp range and torque to the 400 lb/ft range. The V6 supercharger is still widely available, but the V8 supercharger is becoming more and more rare due to TRD ending production of the device because of issues regarding its compatibility with the engine.

Tundra prototypes and 'show trucks' were originally known as T150's but Ford and automotive enthusiasts discouraged the name as it seemed too close to the market-leader F-150. A lawsuit ensued and the production truck was dubbed the Tundra Ebay Boulay Strikes Again.

For 2003 the grille on the Tundra was updated and the Double Cab version joined the lineup in the 2004 model year. A genuine crew cab with four normal doors, the Double Cab featured interior and exterior details that were copied from the Toyota Sequoia. The bed of the Double Cab was almost 5 inches longer than the competing Ford F-150 or Nissan Titan and was also 13 inches longer and 3 inches taller than the Regular and Access cab versions.

For the 2005 model year, a brand new engine was introduced that was a 4.0 liter V6 rated at 236 ft/lb of torque. The 4.7 liter V8 was updated with Toyota's VVT-i variable valve timing technology that was rated at 271 hp and 313 lb/ft of torque. The 5-speed manual eventually morphed into a 6speed manual and a 5-speed automatic replaced the 4-speed. The Double Cab featured a towing capacity of about 6,800 lbs, and the Access Cabs and Regular Cabs came with a 7,100 pounds towing capacity.

The current version however was redesigned and was aimed at attracting only serious pickup buyers. With true full-size proportions, the Tundra was an American-built half-ton truck. The second generation came in three cab sizes; regular cab, Double Cab and CrewMax, with three different bed lengths and a choice of three engines. The Regular Cab and the shorter-bed Double Cab featured a 4.0-liter V6 engine as standard, and was rated at 236 horsepower and 266 lb/ft of torque. Optional on these models and standard on all other Tundra's was a 4.7-liter V8 engine that achieved 271 horsepower and 313 lb/ft of torque. All Tundra's featured an optional 5.7-liter V8 engine that achieved 381 hp and 401 lb/ft of torque. The smaller V8 and the V6 came teamed to a five-speed automatic transmission while the larger V8 was joined to a six-speed automatic. All of these versions were available with rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.

The Double Cab is basically a larger extended cab with four forward-hinged doors and the Tundra CrewMax is an extra-large crew cab. The regular cab came in just a basic Grade trim level only. Both the Double Cab and Crewmax are available in more upscale SR5 and Limited trim levels. Both the regular and Tundra Double Cabs came with a available bed length of a 6.5-foot or an 8-foot bed, while the CrewMax came strictly with a 5.5-foot bed. The Tundra was now on equal or higher standing with other competing half-ton pickups.

The Toyota Tundra is now equipped even easier for a variety of possible configurations as either a work vehicle or a family hauler. The Double Cab was medium-sized and was the extended-cab version of the Tundra and was just as large as many of the competitors' crew cabs. The huge Tundra CrewMax came with the roomiest four-door cab in the full-size segment. Inside, the current Tundra features extraordinary interior room with plenty of handy features and great road handling.

Introduced at the 2006 Chicago Auto Show; a larger Tundra was introduced with a variety of enhancements that included a towing capacity of up to 10,000+ lb and a payload capacity of over 2,000lbs, along with a new 6-speed automatic transmission. This was the second generation of the Toyota Tundra and 3 engines were now available, a new 5.7 liter V8 that produced 381 horsepower and 401 lb/ft of torque, a 4.7 liter V8 rated at 276 hp and 313 lb/ft of torque and a newly introduced 4.0 liter V6 that was rated at 236 hp and 266 lb/ft of torque.

The newest, second generation Tundra was introduced in February of 2007 and was available in 31 configurations that consisted of 3 bed lengths, 4 wheel-bases, 3 cab configurations, and 2 transmissions. The previous generations Access Cab was replaced with the new Double Cab. The previous generations Double Cab was also replaced with a brand new Crew Max; which was built to compete with the Dodge Ram Mega Cab. The Double Cab came with the available option of either an 6 and a half foot bed, a regular bed, or an 8 foot long bed. The Crew Max was only offered with a 5 and a half foot short bed.

A new 6-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift mode was standard with the 5.7 liter engine and gave it a 0-60 mph time of 6.3 seconds. It also featured a quarter mile time of 14.7 seconds. Built to deliver power and fuel economy, the 5.7 liter is a VVT-i engine. The Toyota Tundra's 5.7 liter 4x2 engine was rated to deliver an estimated 20 miles to the gallon on the highway.

The newest generation of the Tundra was very popularly aimed at construction workers, because it included extra large door handles, headrests that could accommodate a worker with his hard hat on, a deck rail system and an integrated tow hitch. This newest model, as a standard model, also came with an automatic limited slip differential vehicle stability control, electronic brake-force distribution, traction control antilock brakes, brake assist and tailgate assist. Unfortunately the Toyota Tundra was priced at the extravagant MSRP of $22,290, which was priced more than the Chevy Silverado Work Truck and the base Ford F-150.

Other updates for 2007 included optional tow mirrors, a 27 US gallon fuel tank and the option of 22 inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth, large center console, backup camera, extra-large disc brakes and 6-speed sequential automatic transmission.

This newest model of the Tundra is built in two different locations, both of them located inside the U.S. The 2008 Tundra model added 13 variations, bringing the grand total up to 44 model variants. This newest model featured even more additional features at an even lower price. A new 'Tundra Grade' trim was available, and was lower than the SR5 trim and was aimed at trades-folk, rather than the price conscious customer.

For 2009 the Toyota Tundra received an E85 fuel capability that was now standard and was equipped with the 5.7L V8 in very select regions. The TRD Sport package was also updated by Toyota this year and a TRD Rock Warrior Package was also introduced. Compared to the year previously, the Toyota Tundra's prices are estimated to rise 0.4%.

by Jessican Donaldson