2009 Toyota Tundra: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Toyota Tundra lineup gains some new option packages, and certain models can also run on ethanol-blended E85 fuel. 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 SR5 trims. Both the extended Double Cab and longer CrewMax crew cab have four conventional doors, seat six, and come in Base, SR5, and top-line Limited trims.

A 236-hp 4.0-liter V6 engine is standard in regular and short-bed Double cabs. Optional on those and standard on long-bed Double Cabs and CrewMax is a 276-hp 4.7-liter V8. A 381-hp 5.7-liter V8 is standard on Limited and optional all other Tundra models. The V6 and 4.7 V8 use a 5-speed automatic transmission, and the 5.7 V8 has a 6-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. Certain Tundra models equipped with the 5.7 V8 and 4WD can run on E85 ethanol. 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. New for 2009 are two TRD (Toyota Racing Development) option packages. The Rock Warrior Package includes off-road-ready suspension tuning and specific wheels. The Sport Package has specific paint and wheels.

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.

Our Best Buys are the Dodge Ram and Ford F-150. Our Recommended picks are the Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, and Toyota Tundra. New or significantly redesigned models in the class include the Dodge Ram 1500 and the Ford F-150. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 each add a gas/electric hybrid model for 2009.