2005 Toyota Tundra: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

More power, new transmissions, and available curtain side airbags highlight 2005 additions to this American-built large pickup truck. Tundra offers three cab styles: a regular cab, an extended Access Cab with two small rear-hinged back doors, and a crew-cab Double Cab with four conventional side doors. The Double Cab's cabin is 4 inches wider than the others. Regular cabs have an 8.1-ft cargo bed. Access Cabs have a 6.1-ft bed and choice of a conventional box or Toyota's StepSide flared-fender cargo box. Double Cabs have a 6.1-ft bed with walls 4 inches higher than on other models. They also gain an available 3-passenger front bench seat for '05, so all Access Cabs and Double Cabs now offer front bucket seats or a bench. Access and Double cabs also have a 3-passenger split folding rear seat for up to 6-passenger capacity.

Tundra offers V6 and V8 power. For '05, the V6 is a 245-hp 4.0-liter, replacing a 190-hp 3.4. It comes with a 6-speed manual transmission, which replaces a 5-speed; or a 5-speed automatic, which replaces a 4-speed. The V8 is again a 4.7-liter, but it gains 42 hp for 282. It comes with a 5-speed automatic vs. 2004's 4-speed. Tundras offer rear-wheel drive or 4WD that should not be left engaged on dry pavement but includes low-range gearing. ABS is standard. An antiskid system is among new 2005 options for all Tundras. The head-protecting curtain side airbags are exclusive options for Double Cabs and are teamed with front side airbags.

Regular cabs come in base and new-for-'05 Work models. Other Tundras offer SR5 and Limited trim and are newly available with a navigation system. Double Cabs have a power up/down rear window and offer several exclusive options, including sunroof, heated front seats, and rear DVD entertainment. TRD Off-Road Packages deliver special tires, suspension, and trim.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large Pickup Trucks are traditionally the vehicle of choice for heavy-duty hauling and towing. They offer an array of cab styles and bed lengths and usually feature powerful V8 or diesel engines. For personal use, consider light-duty ½-ton models. For heavy-duty or commercial use, consider ¾- or 1-ton models.

Our Best Buys include the Chevrolet Silverado, Ford F-Series, and GMC Sierra. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Ram, Nissan Titan, and Toyota Tundra.