2001 Toyota Tundra: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

This Indiana-built Toyota battles full-size Ford, Dodge, and General Motors pickups, though it's somewhat smaller. Regular-cab Tundras have two doors and an 8-ft cargo bed. The extended Access Cab has a 6.5-ft bed, a 3-place rear bench seat, and rear-hinged back doors that don't open independently of the front doors. No crew cab is offered. The V6 engine comes with manual or automatic transmission, the V8 with automatic only. Tundra has rear-wheel drive or 4WD that must be disengaged on dry pavement but has low-range gearing. Base, SR5, and top-line Limited models are offered, with the base trim exclusive to the regular cab. ABS is optional, but 4-wheel-disc brakes are unavailable. For 2001, an in-dash CD changer is standard for SR5 as well as Limited, and an appearance package gives Limiteds color-keyed bumpers. The new Off-Road Package adds fender flares, special tires and shock absorbers, and, to 2WD Tundras, a raised suspension.

COMPETITION

With the advent of crossover vehicles the segment has become less defined. Once the domain of work-related heavy-duty pickups, buyers are now demanding that their full-size trucks do double duty. Our Best Buys remain the Chevy Silverado, Ford F-150, and GMC Sierra. These trucks offer a wide range of powertrain combinations, plenty of luxury accommodations, and ample towing power--though the GM twins are the only ones to offer full-time 4WD.

The big-rig-styled Dodge Ram matches the new Ford and GM models feature for feature but can't match their ride comfort or civility. We also like the expensive Toyota Tundra. What it lacks in brute strength, it more than makes up for with refined road manners.