It finally happened, the 2022 Toyota Tundra has been unveiled with the expected all-new design inside and out bolder and more muscular, the expected expansion of new tech features, and an unexpected shift in powertrains that could make or break the new full-sized pickup from Toyota.
We will start by saying it took long enough for the all-new 2022 Toyota Tundra to arrive. Whether it’s worth the wait will require a drive. Until then we can look at what Toyota has shared and it’s a lot to digest so let me try to hit the top line points.
It’s built on the all-new F1 modular truck platform that will underpin other models to come including the next-generation Tacoma and 4Runner. The big news architecturally is a stronger high-strength boxed, steel-ladder frame with a switch to a multi-link rear suspension and coil springs for a better ride and handling experience.
Available is a new rear air suspension system that has automatic and manual leveling functionality and adjustable height modes. Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) adjustable dampers are also available or the first time on Tundra.
TRD Pro will get 2.5-inch diameter FOX internal bypass shocks with piggyback reservoirs, a 1.1-inch front lift, TRD aluminum front skid plate along with a laundry list of off-road software toys too long to list here.
Tundra will offer two different engines, and yes the V8 is long gone. Both powertrain choices start with a new twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission. The standard engine has 389 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque.
Optional is a hybrid variant called i-FORCE MAX featuring the same twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine but ads an electric motor between it and the 10-speed automatic for a total system horsepower of 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque.
The additional power from the motor generator adds for towing and acceleration and can provide low speed EV only operation in city driving. A relatively low-tech but reliable Nickel-Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) battery pack that resides under the rear passenger seat.
The 2022 Tundra with all of its architectural and powertrain changes has a higher maximum towing capacity of up to 12,000 pounds and a higher maximum payload capacity of 1,940 pounds.
A all-new interior is bolder in its design, especially in the red and black motif shown here. Lots of options and technologies are on for 2022 including an available panoramic roof, heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel and more.
Two new instrument clusters include a dazzling new customizable 12.3-inch TFT large screen or a more traditional two-dial setup with a 4.1-inch digital screen in the center. All-new multimedia systems include a standard 8-inch touchscreen or an available 14-inch touchscreen featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Wi-Fi Connect offers 4G for up to 10 devices via it’s built-in AT&T Hotspot.
It’s bold new body remains built of steel but has a lot of aluminum for it’s secondary panels. The bed is similar to that of the Tacoma with a sheet-molded compound (SMC), that’s plastic, it’s reinforced with aluminum. A plastic bed hasn’t been an issue with Tacoma buyers, I doubt Tundra buyers will be upset by it either. Two different four-door cabs are available with bed lengths including a 5.5-foot bed, 6.5-foot bed and an 8.1-foot bed. No single-cab will be available.
The all-new Tundra will go on sale later this year and will continue to be built at San Antonio, TX Pricing and final specs such as mpg and trim based payload capacities will be announced closer to the on-sale date late this year.
