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Toyota Tundra - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Toyota Tundra ranks 5 out of 8 Full Size Pickup Trucks. This ranking is based on our analysis of 63 published reviews and test drives of the Toyota Tundra, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2007 through 2010 Toyota Tundra has been recalled.   For more information on the Toyota recall, including how it affects our rankings, please see our Toyota Recall page.

The Toyota Tundra is a solid truck, but with competitors offering fresher designs and innovative features, it finds itself struggling in a very competitive class.

Reviewers say the Tundra's biggest flaw is that it's as good as, but no better than its competition -- especially since the competition has been recently redesigned. In 2009, Ford introduced a redesigned F-150 and Dodge redesigned the Ram.  In both cases, the redesigns incorporated innovative features, like Ford's SYNC system and the Ram's coil-spring suspension.  When compared to the very latest that the market has to offer, several reviewers say the Tundra doesn't look as good as it once did. 

Several reviewers say the Tundra's ride is bouncy when compared to the F-150 and the Ram, while others say that the interior features that buyers can opt for on other trucks isn't available on the Tundra.  Still, the consensus seems to be that though the Tundra is outclassed by newer trucks in some areas, like most full-size pickups, it is still an excellent all-around choice.

For 2010, Toyota has refreshed the Tundra to help it stay with the pack. A new 4.6 liter V8 base engine has increased fuel efficiency and horsepower, while the optional 5.7 liter V8 remains the same.  As many trucks for competitors start to be outfitted like luxury vehicles, Toyota has kept up by adding the Platinum Package to CrewMax Limited Tundras.  This package includes upscale features like heated and cooled seats, as well as higher-end exterior touches. The Tundra is available with a Regular, Double and CrewMax cab.

If you're shopping for a full size pickup but not convinced of the Tundra's qualifications, consider the class leaders, the Chevy Silverado or Ford F-150.  Both have better fuel economy than the Tundra and have base prices about $2,000 less than the Tundra's.

Come check out this month's Best Toyota Deals where we have done the research to get you the best offer.

• "Finally, a Toyota truck with no excuses. And it sure won't need any." -- Car and Driver
• "It's big, it's powerful, and it promises more potency than a Viagra commercial." -- Detroit News
• "The current Toyota Tundra, which came onto the scene in 2007 fresh from a redesign, matches or beats domestic full-size pickups when it comes to size, performance and price." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "It's exactly what I thought it would be: a half-earnest, half-mocking tribute to the American pickup truck, bigger and saccharine-sweeter than its competitors, with major-league engineering...and focus-group features galore, including half a dozen of the biggest cup holders this side of the NFL." -- Los Angeles Times
• "The new trucks from Dodge and Ford are impressive, but so are the GM full-sizers -- and don't forget about Nissan's Titan, which still holds appeal for buyers who don't require a wide range of body styles and options. Nonetheless, the 2009 Toyota Tundra remains a well-built and thoroughly competent truck. Make sure it's on your to-drive list if you're shopping for one of these beasts of burden." -- Edmunds

Tundra Performance - 8.2 (Very Good)

The 2010 Tundra has one of the most powerful V8 engines in the class. Automobile Magazine says, "The big V-8 purrs silently in cruise mode. When tasked to move a hefty load, the samurai warrior buried in its soul lets out a fierce yowl." While the engine wins praise, reviewers complain about the Tundra's too-big handling and ride that some say is bouncy when compared to the Dodge Ram and Ford F-150. Read More

Tundra Exterior - 7.6 (Good)

Reviewers aren't sure if the 2010 Toyota Tundra's looks surpass the competition's. The New York Times says, "We don't think any of the three Tundra models is particularly attractive on the outside -- their chrome grilles are Dodge Ram wannabes," but later notes, "the rest of the package looks like a winner." Read More

Tundra Interior - 8.0 (Very Good)

Although the Tundra gets attention for a spacious cabin, its interior is seen as nothing special by many reviewers.  While other trucks offer upscale amenities and handy storage options, the Tundra plays it safe.  As Motor Trend says, "The interior falls short -- perhaps the last thing over which you'd expect Toyota to stumble."  Read More

Tundra Safety - NA

The 2010 Tundra earns good government crash test scores and the almost-identical 2009 model was recognized as one of the Insurance Institute's "Top Safety Picks" for 2009. Among full-size pickup trucks, it's an honor the Tundra shares only with the all-new Ford F-150. Read More

Tundra Reliability - 10.0 (Excellent)

The 2010 Toyota Tundra reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2010 Toyota Tundra is covered by a 36-month/36,000-mile basic warranty. Read More