Although Toyota does not really come to mind when it comes to looking for good full sized pickup truck, the Toyota Tundra is an exception. Ranking 5th out of 6 full sized pickup trucks, the Tundra is a great all-around truck which a pickup enthusiast will surely enjoy.
In terms of performance, the 2011 Toyota Tundra has a basic 4.0 liter V6 engine that produces about 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet torque. Despite being an extremely powerful truck, its power steering makes it easy to drive.
The exterior of the 2011 Tundra is similar to the 2010 model. Many automotive experts commend its tall grille and hood. Moreover, they also think that its brawny appearance make it look imposing on the road. Having said all that, despite its imposing appearance, the design of the Tundra’s exterior looks really plain compared to American made pickup trucks.
Flashy on the Inside
The inside of the 2011 Tundra is exceptional. With its comfortable leather upholstery, state of the art navigation system, and backup camera, the inside of the car looks classier than other full sized trucks. It is also interesting to note that design of the headrests received a much needed upgrade. They are now more comfortable and visually pleasing.
Just like its interior, the Tundra’s safety features also deserve a lot of praise. Based on the Insurance Industry for Highway Safety’s test, the Tundra received the top score of “Good” in both the front offset and side impact tests. In order to ensure passenger safety, the Tundra comes with a number of standard safety features such as vehicle traction and stability control, electronic brake-force distribution, trailer-sway control, and brake override technology. Moreover, the truck is also equipped with driver and front outboard passenger airbags.
Hardwork with style
Aside from the impressive interior and safety features, the power of the 2011 Toyota Tundra is its masterpiece. The stock V6 engine gets approximately 236 horsepower and 266 pound-feet torque. For speed junkies, upgrading to a V8 engine is always an option.
The base price of the 2011 Toyota Tundra is about $23,720. However, it can go up to $41,433. Purchasing a Tundra entitles you to a 36-month, 36,000 mile basic warranty. Despite being heavy and having standard 18-inch wheels, the Tundra offers a relatively smooth ride. The truck has smooth gear shifting and excellent on-road and off-road rides.
In a nut shell, the best thing about the 2011 Tundra is its powerful V8 engine. Also, its impressive safety features makes it a force to be reckoned in the world of full sized trucks. Lastly, it is also an ace in terms of riding comfort and convenience.
Having said all that, the Tundra is not as fuel efficient as other Toyota vehicles, a problem a consumer should expect with a car powered by a V8 engine. In addition to its mediocre fuel economy, the 2011 Toyota Tundra has received a lot of criticisms from both automotive experts and consumers alike for its slow reaction in sudden and quick changes in direction. Lastly, despite its intimidating appearance, the car’s exterior seems a little too bland and simple compared to other full sized trucks.
When everything is said and done, however, the 2011 Toyota Tundra is still considered in providing good value for money. It is most ideal for heavy duty tasks such as farming, construction, or hauling a trailer.
The SuperCars Overall Rating = 65/100
What others say:
“As it evolved, the Tundra gave up some comfort and refinement as it bulked up…”Consumer Reports
”Since truck sales have dropped precipitously in the past few years, the 2011 Tundra is essentially the same as last year’s model, with an updated base engine and now, far fewer versions to offer buyers.”The Car Connection
“A 270-horsepower 4.0-liter V6 engine is standard on rear-drive regular cabs and short-bed Double Cabs. This is an increase of 34 horsepower over V6-powered 2010 Tundra models.”Consumer Guide
“The 2011 Toyota Tundra has dared to tread on sacred territory, namely the domestic full-size pickup market, and done so with surprising success.”KBB
“Strong V8 powertrains; capable six-speed automatic; large extended cab; colossal crew cab; comfortable and spacious cabin; one axle ratio fits all.”Edmunds
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Full Size Pickup Truck | Base Price: $ 24,435.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 26.4 gallons | Miles Per Gallon: 16 city / 20 hwy |
| Length: 228.7 in. (581 cm) | Width: 79.9 in. (203 cm) |
| Height: 75.6 in. (192 cm) | Weight: 5250 lbs (2381 kgs) |
| Wheel Base: 145.7 in. (370 cm) | Ground Clearance: 10 in. (25.4 cm) (unladen) |
| Luggage Capacity: Cargo Vol. 150 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 7 |
| Engine: 4.0 L DOHC 24-Valve i-FORCE V6 with Dual Independent (VVT-i) | Displacement: N/A |
| Horsepower: 270 hp | Torque: 278 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm |
| Max RPM: 5600 rpm | Transmission: 5-speed Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) |
| 0-60 mph: N/A | Towing Capacity: 4900 lbs (2223) |
| Option:Regular CabLong Bed 4×2 4.0L V6 | MSRP: $24,765; MPG: 16 city / 20 hwy |
| Option:Regular Cab 4×2 4.6L V8 | MSRP: $25,635; MPG: 15 city / 20 hwy |
| Option:Regular Cab Long Bed 4×2 5.7L V8 | MSRP: $26,910; MPG: 14 city / 18 hwy |
| Option:Regular Cab 4×4 5.7L V8* | MSRP: $29,630; MPG: 13 city / 17 hwy |
| Option:Regular Cab 4×4 5.7L V8 | MSRP: $29,630; MPG: 14 city / 18 hwy |
| Option:Regular Cab Long Bed 4×4 5.7L V8* | MSRP: $29,960; MPG: 13 city / 17 hwy |
| Option:Regular Cab 4×4 5.7L V8* | MSRP: $29,960; MPG: 13 city / 17 hwy |
| Option:Double Cab 4×2 5.7L V8 | MSRP: $28,165; MPG: 14 city / 18 hwy |
| Option:Double Cab Long Bed 4×2 5.7L V8 | MSRP: $29,155; MPG: 14 city / 18 hwy |
| Option:Double Cab Limited 4×2 5.7L V8 | MSRP: $37,360; MPG: 13 city / 17 hwy |
| Option:Double Cab 4×2 4.6L V8 | MSRP: $26,920; MPG: 15 city / 20 hwy |
| Option:Double Cab 4×4 4.6L V8 | MSRP: $29,970; MPG: 15 city / 20 hwy |
| Option:Double Cab 4×4 5.7L V8* | MSRP: $31,215; MPG: 14 city / 18 hwy |
| Option:Double Cab Long Bed 4×4 5.7L V8* | MSRP: $32,205; MPG: 13 city / 17 hwy |
| Option:Double Cab Limited 4×4 5.7L V8* | MSRP: $40,420; MPG: 13 city / 17 hwy |
| Option:CrewMax 4×2 4.6L V8 | MSRP: $29,745; MPG: 15 city / 20 hwy |
| Option:CrewMax 4×2 5.7L V8 | MSRP: $30,990; MPG: 14 city / 18 hwy |
| Option:CrewMax Limited 4×2 5.7L V8 | MSRP: $39,895; MPG: 14 city / 18 hwy |
| Option:CrewMax 4×4 4.6L V8 | MSRP: $32,795; MPG: 15 city / 20 hwy |
| Option:CrewMax 4×4 5.7L V8* | MSRP: $34,040; MPG: 14 city / 18 hwy |
| Option:CrewMax Limited 4×4 5.7L V8* | MSRP: $42,995; MPG: 14 city / 18 hwy |
*FFV Available – Flex Fuel Vehicle.
