Car Review: Tundra hybrid has more power

Jun. 9—If more power is high on your list for big trucks, you may want to consider the newest Toyota Tundra hybrid. For 2024, the heavy-duty truck connects a lot of dots people are looking for, whether moving big items or forging around in the mud during off — road excursions.

While some hybrids aim for better fuel economy, our i-FORCE MAX twin turbo V6 added 48 ponies from an electric motor positioned between the engine and 10 speed transmission, increasing torque to 583 pound-feet and total horsepower to 437. That combination makes for spirited driving off the line and massive passing power when needed. Our three-ton tester reached 60 miles-per-hour from a dead stop in a respectable 5.7 seconds.

Towing capacity is up to 12,000 pounds with a maximum payload of 1,940 pounds. Rivals Ford and Ram do better. EPA estimates the bigger engine gets 19 miles per gallon in combined driving; although, our extended interstate driving missed that mark by three.

The Hybrid Tundra is not cheap compared with lesser trims. It tips the scales between $60-80,000, depending on options. For comparison, the base non-hybrid SR and SR5 Tundra models are priced approximately $18,000 less.

Standard equipment on the hybrids includes a drive mode select with tow/haul modes, multi terrain and crawl modes, full or part-time four-wheel drive, controllable transfer case and locking rear differential, off-road suspension and FOX shocks. We found the big Tundra delivers a compliant ride with firm suspension, strong brakes and precise steering.

Exterior enhancements include 18-inch forged aluminum wheels, reinforced composite bed with 120 volt/ 400-watt AC power outlet, blacked out Toyota grille with color keyed surround, LED light bar and skid plates to protect the underside. Our TRD Pro also included blacked out trailer mirrors, window trim, fender flares and blackened door handles.

At this price point, we were disappointed there were no power running boards to make entry and exit less of a jump/hop and climb down exercise and no step-ups into bed.

Once inside, there is lots of room for cargo, an expansive center console, door panel super-size drink holders and extra front and rear seat space although the electric battery stored under the rear seat slightly reduces available space there. Front and rear seats are well cushioned with front seat lumbar adjustments adding to the overall comfort throughout the cabin. We noticed minimal road noise during mostly highway travel speeds.

A 12-speaker JBL sound system with subwoofer and amplifier hit all the right notes and SofTex material trimmed out the interior for a rich look. Instrument gauges were monitored through a 12.3-inch digital screen and a Lexus-like standard 14-inch touchscreen contained a plethora of infotainment apps in high resolution including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with an available Wi-Fi hot spot.

Toyota's Safety Sense 2.5 includes adaptive cruise with full stop, pre collision with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beams and trailer backup guide with straight path.

The new Tundra warranty includes a two-year/25,000-mile complimentary maintenance plan unmatched in the industry.

Contact independent automotive columnist Len Ingrassia at [email protected].