2008 Toyota Tundra: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Toyota Tundra is largely unchanged following its redesign in 2007. This large pickup truck offers three cab styles, three wheelbases, three bed lengths, three engines, and, three trim levels. The 2-door three-passenger regular cab comes in base and dressier SR5 trims. Both the extended Double Cab and longer CrewMax crew cab have four conventional doors, seat five, and come in base, SR5, and top-line Limited trims.

A 236-hp 4.0-liter V6 engine is standard in regular and Double cabs. Optional on those and standard on CrewMax and Limited Double Cab is a 271-hp 4.7-liter V8. Optional on all Tundra models is a 381-hp 5.7-liter V8. It uses a 6-speed automatic transmission vs. the other engines' 5-speed automatic. Maximum towing capacity is 10,800 lb. Tundras are available with rear-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive that should not be left engaged on dry pavement but includes a low-range gear for off-roading. Cargo-bed lengths are 6.5 ft on regular and Double Cab short beds, 8.1 on regular and Double Cab long bed, 5.5 on CrewMax. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. CrewMax has a power rear cab window and is available with DVD entertainment. Among Tundra options are an off-road package and a navigation system that includes a rearview camera positioned to show the trailer hitch.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large Pickup Trucks are traditionally the vehicles 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 half-ton models. For heavy-duty or commercial use, consider three-quarter- or one-ton models.

We have no Best Buys in this class. Our Recommended picks are the Chevrolet Avalanche, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Ford F-150, GMC Sierra 1500, and Toyota Tundra.