Text by Tom Appel
2026 Toyota Tundra TRD Performance
Specs
Class: Large Pickup Truck
Country of manufacture: U.S.
Seating capacity: 5
Color: Wave Maker
Miles driven: 137
| CG Report Card | |
|---|---|
| Room and Comfort | A- |
| Power and Performance | B+ |
| Fit and Finish | B+ |
| Fuel Economy | C+ |
| Value | B+ |
| Report-card grades are derived from a consensus of test-driver evaluations. All grades are versus other vehicles in the same class. Value grade is for specific trim level evaluated, and may not reflect Consumer Guide's impressions of the entire model lineup. | |
| Big & Tall Comfort | |
| Big Guy | A |
| Tall Guy | A |
| Big & Tall comfort ratings are for front seats only. "Big" rating based on male tester weighing approximately 350 pounds, "Tall" rating based on 6'6"-tall male tester. | |
| Drivetrain | |
| Engine Specs | 466-horsepower 3.5-liter |
| Engine Type | Turbocharged, hybrid V6 |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic |
| Drive Wheels | 4WD |
Observed fuel economy: 16.7 mpg
Driving mix: 35% city, 65% highway
EPA-estimated fuel economy: 18/20/19 (mpg city/highway/combined)
Fuel type: Premium gas
Base price: $72,565 (not including $2095 (destination charge)
Options on test vehicle: Special paint ($695), bed mat ($224), ball mount ($89), mini tie-down ($45), spare tire lock ($75), wheel locks ($105), TRD Performance Package ($2999), rock rails ($625)
Price as tested: $79,517
Audio-System Brand
JBL
Audio-System Quality
Poor Fair Good Very-Good Excellent
Pros and Cons
The great: Roomy, comfortable, promise of serious off-road capability
The good: Fun to drive, sporty character
The not so good: Requires premium-grade gasoline
Review
Toyota’s Tundra pickup is the probably the innately sportiest of full-size pickups. It boasts authentic steering feel, immediate brake response, and generally quick throttle response. In short, it’s fun to drive.
TRD Performance Package
But, that’s not to say you can’t up the performance ante a bit, were that something you were open to. And, we’re here to ask, if you’ve come this far, why not come a little further?
And by further, we mean equipping your Tundra with the TRD Performance Package. The viscerally engaging equipment group, which ups both performance and sound levels, was first offered on the Tundra for 2024, and remains available on select 2026 trim levels.
2026 Toyota Tundra TRD Performance
One model for which the package can be ordered is the already caffeinated TRD Pro. Available only with the Crew Max cab and short (5.5-foot) bed, the TRD Pro features a number of off-road and performance upgrades, including the desirable i-Force MAX engine.
Among the many things the TRD Pro brings to the Tundra party are an upgraded off-road oriented suspension, specific drive modes, special wheels and tires, and plenty of interior and exterior trim bits.
And, though definitely off-road oriented, the TRD Pro handles surprisingly well on pavement, where the model’s road feel and generally playful character come into play. But for Toyota Tundra fans looking for something more…something a little over the top…may we recommend the TRD Performance Package?
TRD Performance Package Contents
Before you decide, here’s what’s included :
- Dual high-flow air intakes
- “Cat-back” performance exhaust system
- Recalibrated engine management software
Essentially, the package is designed to help the i-Force Max engine breathe more easily, and produce more power as a result. And, the numbers are impressive.
Engine Upgrades
In the case of the TRD Pro, the “Max” engine is treated to a 29 horsepower bump to 466, with peak torque coming on earlier in the rev range. The result is an engine that feels both strong and eager. And thanks to the performance exhaust system, sounds fantastic going about its business.
Package Price
At just under $3000, the TRD Performance Package isn’t cheap, but does return solid performance gains for the money. Also, and this is important, as a factory option, the package parts come installed, and covered by the Tundra’s factory warranty.
Premium Gas
On the downside, the package does raise the engine’s octane needs, meaning you are on the hook for premium-grade gasoline. To that end, the package also includes a “Premium Only” sticker to be placed inside the fuel-filler door.
Test Car
Consumer Guide recently spent a week behind the wheel of a 2026 Tundra in TRD Pro trim and equipped with a number of options (see list above) including the TRD Performance Package. All told, including destination charge and eye-catching extra-cost Wave Maker paint, our test car came to $79,517.
Off-Road Ready
The TRD Pro already feels a little special, featuring an elevated ride height, plenty of unique interior bits, and the promise of serious go-anywhere capability. But, on-road or off, equipped with TRD package, the Tundra feels special.
For a complete review of the Tundra TRD Pro WITHOUT the Performance package, click here.
Sporty Character
While we at Consumer Guide generally prefer vehicles with higher levels of ride comfort, quietness, and powertrain refinement, we can’t help but respond to how genuinely sporty and engaging we find our test truck.
Power and Performance
Throttle response is excellent, with power coming on quickly from a stop, and shifts from the 10-speed automatic transmission clicking off with decisive authority. Better yet—for driving enthusiasts—the aural soundtrack provided by the upgraded exhaust system just makes everything more fun.
Fuel Economy
Also impressive is our fuel economy. Despite the horsepower bump, we observed almost 17 mpg in routine—though vigorous—driving. That’s about the same fuel economy we recording driving a TRD Pro without the Performance package. That said, the truck does now require pricey premium-grade fuel.
2026 Tundra TRD Pro Test Drive
We strongly suggest that anyone considering a Tundra model available with the TRD Performance Package evaluate a truck with and without the option. We consider the Package money well spent, but fully appreciate how consumers might find the elevated noise levels a detriment to sane daily commuting.
Also consider that this package combines elements often added as aftermarket accessories that do not come under the protection of a factory warranty. If you are considering upgrading the intake or exhaust of your newly purchased Tundra, may we suggest just ordering the Package instead?
Value
As for the Tundra itself, it still feels as rock solid and well screwed together as ever, though prices have climbed somewhat over the past few years. Yes, the Detroit Three trucks are smoother riding, quieter, and generally more refined in operation, but the Tundra handles better, is generally more engaging to drive, and can now be had with the delightful TRD Performance Package, which we would order in a heartbeat.
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2026 Toyota Tundra TRD Performance Package
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