2009 Toyota Tundra

Review

The foreign-born 2009 Toyota Tundra won't leave you out in the cold when it comes to maneuvering through the full-size truck landscape filled with domestic models. It's only three years since this truck made its American debut. In that time, it has combined functionality with performance to win its share of fans. After putting this version through a road test that would make some of its competitors shudder, this workhorse took on the challenges of towing and hauling without missing a beat. Through it all, the ride was comfortable and there was plenty of space for everyone and everything on board. J.D. Power's Quality Rating for predicted reliability is 10 of 10 and it earned an average rating in Intellichoice's 5 year cost of ownership.

Improvements from 2008 Toyota Tundra

This time around there are two TRD package - Sport and Rock Warrior - from which to choose. Four-wheel-drive models also offer 5.7-liter V8 engines with flex-fuel capabilities.

Performance

Whether you get the 4x2 regular or double cab, the standard engine is a 4.0-liter V6 that can deliver 236 horsepower with 266 pound-feet of torque. The specs show it gets 15 mpg city/19 mpg highway and 16 mpg combined with a standard six-speed automatic. The transmission responds quickly and the console shifter easily lets a driver use the manual mode when heading up or down steep highway grades or even off road.

Exterior Features

The 2009 Toyota Tundra is available in three styles: regular cab, Double (crew) Cab and CrewMax (for really big crews). Trim levels include base Grade for the regular cab while midlevel SR5 and top-of -the-line Limited are available in all styles.

Safety & Specifications

With antilock disc brakes, traction and stability controls plus front-seat and full-length side curtain airbags standard, you're protected when doing your own road test or getting car insurance. The 2009 Tundra received four stars out of five in front impact tests, making it much easier to find affordable car insurance.

Upgrade Options

The SR5 offers cruise control, a six-CD changer, keyless entry, rear heater ducts, heated mirrors, and full power accessories. But the Limited goes farther with front and rear parking sensors, auto-dimming side mirrors, Bluetooth, and a 10-speaker upgraded sound system with a subwoofer.

How the New Tundra Compares to Other Trucks

The Dodge Ram's coil-spring suspension is smoother compared to Tundra's setup rear with its slightly bouncy ride. Other than that, the redesigned Dodge and Ford still find it hard to keep up with the well-built Tundra. Check a new/used car guide for photos and warranty information.

Conclusion: Is the Tundra a Smart Buy?

On the plus side, the choice of cab and bed styles, the optional V8, safety features, the spacious cab and a low invoice of $24,849 are hard to beat. Some might complain it feels bigger than the competition and it's tough to reach the stereo, but those might be the only discouraging words.