Test Drive Gallery: 2022 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro

CG Says:

Toyota has redesigned its full-size pickup for 2022, with boldly aggressive styling and a new suspension system designed for smoother, less ?truck-like? ride and handling. The new Tundra is available in two cab configurations, each with a choice of two bed lengths: Double Cab 4-doors are available with a 6.5-foot bed or an 8.1-foot bed; the longer CrewMax 4-door can get a 5.5-foot bed or 6.5-foot bed.

Unlike other full-size pickups, the new Tundra isn?t available with a V8 engine?the previous-generation Tundra?s 5.7-liter V8 has been replaced by V6 powertrains of comparable or greater horsepower. Buyers can now choose from a 389-horsepower twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 (rated at 348 hp on the base SR trim), or a gas-electric hybrid version of that engine, which puts out a combined 437 horsepower. Both engines pair with a 10-speed automatic transmission, instead of the previous Tundra?s 6-speed unit.

The 2022 Tundra?s rear suspension is a new multilink coil-spring design in place of the previous leaf-spring configuration, which improves ride and handling. Newly available is an Adaptive Variable Suspension, which automatically adjusts damping force based on driving conditions. For serious off roading, TRD Off-Road, TRD Sport, and TRD Pro upgrade packages are available, with various combinations of wheels, tires, and suspension designed for severe duty. Maximum payload and towing capacities are both increased, to up to 1940 pounds and 12,000 pounds, respectively.

The all-new interior is highlighted by the new Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment system, which includes wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity and is available with a navigation system that has over-the-air updates. Newly available are a 12.3-inch digital gauge display, a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen, and Toyota?s Panoramic View Monitor 360-degree camera display (which provides visibility of the truck bed and various views of the trailer when towing).

All Tundra models come standard with the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 suite of safety features, which includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert, lane tracing assist, automatic high-beam headlamps, and rear seat reminder. A blind-spot monitoring system is also standard. Available safety features include rear cross-traffic alert and parking support brake, which will implement brake control when the system senses a possible collision while the truck is being parked.

Although the Tundra has never really threatened the massive sales numbers that domestic brands rack up in this category, it has always been a respectable seller with its own unique appeal. That said, the Tundra was long overdue for a ground-up redesign, and this new version brings welcome improvements–including better fuel economy. With these changes, and Toyota?s reputation for quality, this brawny looking rig is now poised to remain a good choice for full-size-pickup shoppers.