A Comprehensive Guide On Features, Specs, And Pricing

Toyota’s full-size pickup, the Tundra, has become a household name among pickup aficionados because of the simple fact that it isn’t afraid to mix business with pleasure, as observed in the premium-quality materials and purpose-built off-road approach. Simply put, the Tundra is a versatile pickup with an added dose of fun. With state-of-the-art standard equipment and all the perks one expects from a modern pickup, the Tundra isn’t short on satisfaction.

The storied TRD upgrades have graced the Tundra line for over two decades, providing an extra level of capability and sportiness to the rugged truck. TRD, or Toyota Racing Development, specializes in factory enhancements for select Toyota models, including but not limited to the Tacoma TRD and Prerunner. These specific upgrades include suspension, handling, and cosmetic additions that put them above the non-TRD models in terms of capability and distinction.

As far is towing and payload, the Tundra doesn’t lead its class. However, its hauling and carrying ability isn’t sub-par by any measure of the word. With a heavy focus on exploration, the Tundra is a reliable, all-around pickup that is as comfortable out on the trail as it is on the jobsite. The 2024 model year doesn’t plan on deviating from this route, though Toyota plans on spicing up their full-size pickup selection with enhanced trim options and factory-installed upgrades.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including Toyota, Toyota Newsroom, KBB, and Car And Driver.

What’s New For 2024?

The Tundra received a refresh for the 2023 model year, so as far as appearance, the 2024 model year remains largely unchanged. However, Toyota didn’t want to leave newcomers and those looking to trade up feeling empty-handed, so they made sure to give buyers looking to drive a 2024 Tundra a solid reason to do so. Noteworthy features include optional sound system and infotainment upgrades, as well as both cosmetic and performance packages.

2024 Highlights

• The Nightshade cosmetic package is now available on the Limited grades.
• A TRD 3.0-inch suspension lift can now be installed on the Platinum 4×4 grades from the factory.
• An available i-FORCE MAX hybrid upgrade boosts engine power and efficiency.
• The TRD off-road package can now be equipped on the Platinum 4×4 grades.
• The new i-FORCE MAX powertrain pairs the twin-turbo V-6 with an electric motor generator.

Engine Specifications And Performance

The 2024 Tundra offers three powertrain options, all based around the twin-turbo 3.4-liter V-6. The base variant of the twin-turbo V-6 is tuned to a lower frequency, producing 348 horses and 405 pound-feet of torque. The base model is more than enough to get the job done around town and occasionally trek off-road, but the options only get beefier from here.

Tuning the i-FORCE V-6 up a notch sees it put out 384 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This higher-tuned option unlocks additional towing capacity as well as more confident manners when tackling tough jobs or terrain. The top dog of the Tundra’s powertrain options is the new i-FORCE MAX hybrid.

The twin-turbo 3.4-liter hybrid V-6 produced an impressive 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid powetrian is optional on all grades, though the TRD Pro and flagship Capstone grades come exclusively with the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain. The twin-turbo 3.4-liter mill pairs with a motor generator with a clutch located within the bell housing between the engine and transmission. This system handles engine startup, EV driving, electric assist functions, and energy regeneration, as well as low-speed driving. When driving over 18 MPH, the electric system seamlessly hands over the bulk of accelleration to the engine.

Performance Specifications

(Source: Toyota)

Towing Capabilities And Payload Capacity

The 2024 line of Tundra features an incredible 40 different configurations and trim combinations. Ranging from rear-wheel and part-time 4-wheel drive, to double cab and crew max. In short, there are nearly endless ways to option the new Tundra, meaning there’s one for everyone.

As such, the payload and tow capacity vary depending on which combination you choose. The best way to approach this portion of the decision-making process is to decide what lifestyle your Tundra will cater to. If you tow and haul more for work, then you’ll be in the market for a Tundra SR5 4×2 double cab, as it provides a max 12,000 pounds of tow capacity. If you’re more of an off-road enthusiast, then you may option the TRD Pro model, or a 4×4 Tundra with the TRD Off-Road package equipped.

Off-Road Capability

It’s no secret the Tundra has a natural affinity to the wild outdoors, as expressed in the rugged design and intentional off-road-friendly dimensions. Toyota also spent countless years refining their off-road prowess, resulting in a rich lineage littered with rally titles and desert racing trophies. This sentiment shines through in more than one variation of the 2024 Tundra.

For starters, Toyota now offers a factory-installed TRD 3-inch suspension lift. This upgrade not only allows the Tundra more ground clearance, it gives buyers added peace of mind when considering aftermarket upgrades. Not to mention, Toyota’s performance arm, TRD, specializes in Toyota-specific modifications, ensuring that the suspension lift is worth every penny and more.

For those looking to venture further into the unknown, they can opt for the TRD Pro grade or any 4×4 Tundra equipped with the TRD Off-Road package. These specific models feature the best-of-the-best in terms of Toyota pickup exploration. Upgrades including multi-terrain select and electronically locking rear differential elevate the off-road ability of the already capable pickup.

Interior Technology And Comfort

Toyota has taken steps to advance their entertainment interface throughout their entire lineup. Sight, touch, and voice activation are the name of the game regarding Toyota’s Human Machine Interface (HMI). This cutting-edge system, developed by Toyota’s Texas-based technologies team, boasts five times greater processing power, providing a seamless and speedy audio multimedia experience.

A standard 8-inch touchscreen adorns the center of the dash, featuring modern functions familiar to most, including pinch-to-zoom and scroll functions, like a tablet or smartphone. An available 14-inch touchscreen is available for those who wish to maximize their interface. Featuring crystal-clear resolution and responsive touch, the interface also has standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities.

Best Interior Features Of The 2024 Toyota Tundra

• The available 14-inch touchscreen enhances entertainment and visual interaction.
• Premium wrapped interior components and contact points.
• Smartphone connectivity, wi-fi hotspot, and available premium sound system provide top-tier entertainment.
• New Terra interior shades for select models compliment the rugged, explorative nature.
• Two available instrument panel layouts offer variety in every aspect.

Toyota spared no expense when it came to the interior materials and layout. The streamlined layout exemplifies class and refinement, while the slew of modern tech and features remind you that this is the newest Tundra on the road. Toyota’s in-house technologies team ensured a futuristic interface with a voice-activated assistant. But just in case you’re not ready to put control in the hands of the on-board A.I., physical knobs still rest near the interface for manual control.

On the top trim, including TRD Pro, Platinum, and 1794, the interior materials get the most attention. This means quality composition and application, as not a stitch seems out of place. The interior contrasts with the exterior well, in the sense that soft, wrapped surfaces and cushioned panels provide a comfortable cabin to confidently tackle tough jobs and off-road environments in.

Technology

As mentioned before, an 8.0-inch touchscreen is standard on most of the 2024 Tundras, save for the top trims, and a 14-inch unit is optional. Like the varying screen sizes, sound systems also come in levels, increasing in speaker count and quality the higher you get in options. These sound system levels include a six-speaker system, a nine-speaker system, and a premium 12-speaker JBL sound system with subwoofer and amplifier.

Interior Dimensions

Safety And Reliability

The third-generation Tundras ditched the leaf spring suspension for multi-link rear suspension. This change improves handling dynamics and stability, not to mention it improves comfort. The double wishbone front suspension improves ride comfort, driving performance, and overall durability, making the Tundra a go-anywhere, do-anything type of truck.

High-strength steel is used throughout the chassis to increase rigidity, while aluminum is used in key areas to decrease weight. Frame crossmembers are more than doubled in size compared to previous models to further increase structural stability. For Limited grades and up, the cab is mounted to the frame with hydraulic mounts to increase ride comfort. The 2024 Tundra is lighter and more structurally sound than previous models thanks to new sheet-molded compound (SMC) construction and aluminum reinforcing crossmembers.

Driver Assistance Features

All 2024 Tundra come equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 (TSS 2.5). This advanced suite includes many of the driver-assist functions we’ve come to expect from modern vehicles, including lane keep assist, lane departure warning, and automatic high beam assist. But, as we’ve observed time and time again, the ever-evolving automotive standard opens the door for competitive offerings.

This forces automakers to include many advanced functions to make their offering sweeter than the next brand. Toyota includes functions such as road sign assist and full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control in their standard safety suite, proving they not only want your business, they want to keep you safe without charging extra.

• Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection and intersection support
• Road sign assist
• Lane departure alert with steering assist
• Lane tracing assist
• Sway warning system

IIHS Crash Testing

NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings

• Recalls (NHTSA): 1
• NHTSA Investigations: 0
• NHTSA Consumer Complaints: 1 complaint regarding check engine light shining and reduced engine power with the vehicle being under 2,000 miles.
• Awards: Top Safety Pick+, KBB Best Resale Value

Warranties

Toyota’s warranty is on par with what you’ll get going the Ford or Chevy route. They offer healthy coverage for the working truck and the adventurer with exceptional complimentary scheduled maintenance. The Tundra’s warranty includes coverage aimed at the hybrid components as well for those interested in the i-FORCE MAX powertrain.

(Source: Toyota)

2024 Toyota Tundra Versus Its Competitors

When considering a pickup, the options can seem overwhelming, on account of how many there are. That said, the first model to find its way into the conversation is America’s favorite, the Ford F-150, swiftly followed by the Chevrolet Silverado. But another quality competitor to the Tundra is the GMC Sierra 1500. With its Denali trim, the Sierra is a dime in terms of offering and value.

How The Toyota Tundra Compares To The Ford F-150

• 	2024 Toyota Tundra	2024 Ford F-150
  Model	Toyota Tundra	Ford F-150
  Engine:	3.5-Liter Twin-Turbo V-6 / Hybrid	V-6 | V-8 | Hybrid
  Torque	405 – 583 LB-FT	400-640 LB-FT
  Transmission	10-Speed Automatic	10-Speed Automatic
  Driveline	RWD / 4WD	RWD or 4WD
  MSRP	$39,965 – $78,845	$33,835 – $83,010
  Towing Capacity	8,300-12,000 LBS	Up To 14,000 Pounds
  Payload Capacity	1,575 – 1,940	Up To 2,335 Pounds
  Horsepower	348 – 437 HP	325 – 700 HP

It’s hard to compare any pickup to the F Series, as it’s among the most celebrated vehicles to ever take to the streets. The F-150 serves as the backdrop to the American spirit – big, tough, and well-equipped to get the job done! Considering the mid-season refresh the F-150 got in 2023, including the ProAccess tailgate and cheaper powertrain upgrade options, the F-150 is probably the Tundra’s biggest opponent at the moment.

This clash carries over into the off-road and sporting class as well, as the F-150 Raptor and Tremor give the F Series its fierce off-road champions to combat Toyota’s TRD excellence. This is a good time to shine a light on an area where the Tundra topples the Blue Oval. The Tundra TRD Pro, or any 4×4 with the TRD Off-Road Package, is cheaper to own than a Raptor or Raptor R. The Tremor may be a cheaper alternative, but the Tundra TRD Pro is pound-for-pound more impressive than the Tremor, boasting noteworthy off-road prowess to prove it.

How The Toyota Tundra Compares To The GMC Sierra

• 	2024 Toyota Tundra	2024 GMC Sierra 1500
  Model	Toyota Tundra	2024 GMC Sierra 1500
  Engine:	3.5-Liter Twin-Turbo V-6 / Hybrid	2.7-liter in-line4
  Torque	405 – 583 LB-FT	430 pound-feet
  Transmission	10-Speed Automatic	Eight-speed automatic
  Driveline	RWD / 4WD	Rear/four-wheel drive
  MSRP	$39,965 – $78,845	$39,695
  Towing Capacity	8,300-12,000 LBS	9,500 pounds
  Payload Capacity	1,575 – 1,940	2,230 pounds
  Horsepower	348 – 437 HP	310 Horsepower

The GMC Sierra is a more evenly matched competitor to the Tundra, as their price ranges and quality touches are more closely matched. Where the F Series aims to make their product more accessible, the Sierra 1500 caters to its customer base with a premium interior layout and materials that inspire the vintage aficionado in us all. Even the lower trims give the impression of refined manners, but where the duality of the Sierra strikes us is in its Amazonian tow capacity.

The main difference in these two models is their goals in life. The GMC Sierra is a workhorse through and through, just a very classy workhorse. The Tundra, on the other hand, favors the “work hard, play hard” mantra in its composition, striking a rewarding balance between everyday utility and sporting adventure.

Boasting a max tow capacity of 13,200 pounds, advanced interior tech, and premium amenities, the Sierra is a big, beautiful pickup that never backs down. Starting at $38,345 for the base Sierra Pro model and reaching up to $84,990 for the Denali Ultimate, there are plenty of options to find that perfect GMC middle ground. For comparison, the GMC Sierra AT4 or AT4X challenge the off-road supremacy of the Tundra TRD Pro and 4×4 models. However, as was the case with the F-150 off-road models, the Tundra’s price is much easier to digest than the Sierra AT4X’s MSRP.

How Much Does A 2024 Toyota Tundra Cost?

The Tundra is an easily attainable vehicle, that is if you’re looking for a standard model. The TRD Pro and Off-Road-equipped Tundras are fairly easy to obtain, just not as easy as an SR or SR5. Not to mention the infamous dealer markups that plague purpose-built vehicles. That said, the Tundra carries a competitive starting MSRP, especially when you consider the value of Toyota’s proven pickup recipe.

(Source: Toyota)

Fuel Economy

The Tundra’s twin-turbo V-6 hybrid engine receives a fair EPA rating of 20 city MPG, 24 highway MPG, and 22 combined MPG. Though the i-FORCE MAX hybrid boasts respectable MPG, the base twin-turbo V-6 options are on par with the full-size pickup segment. An important note when scrutinizing the Tundra’s fuel economy is the powerful i-FORCE MAX and its impressive off-road ability. Other pickups that offer off-road capability and a powerful mill often don’t boast quality MPG.

GAS/HYBRIDS

Is It Worth Buying a Toyota Tundra?

The Tundra comes from a reliable and rugged line of pickups that aren’t afraid of getting dirty. This aim has fueled Toyota’s relentless pursuit of pickup royalty, and they’ve been rewarded for their efforts. The Tundra was named the “Truck Of Texas” by the Texas Auto Writers’ Association (TAWA), as well as receiving an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for its continuous efforts in safety and injury avoidance. So, if earned accolades are something that can make or break a purchase, the Tundra stands on solid business.

Tundra prices are competitive. However, there are many cheaper options. That said, Tundra was also awarded Best Resale Value by KBB on multiple occasions, so if you do decide to trade up, the trade-in value is all but written into the contract. The 2024 Tundra is definitely a pickup that deserves a second look, as its customization options alone make it a jack of all trades, no matter your trade. Plus, not many full-size pickups can rock crawl like a Tundra TRD.