Model tested: Toyota Tundra TRD Pro CrewMax 4×4
Engine: 5.7-liter, DOHC 32-valve iForce V8
Transmission: 6-speed sequential shift automatic
Horsepower: 381
Torque: 401 lb.ft.
EPA ratings: 13/city, 17/highway, 14/combined
Base price: $49,645
As tested: $51,040
Overview: The differences in the 2019 Toyota Tundra from last year’s model are basically evolutionary, carrying over with no big changes. Our test driver — the TRD Pro Edition — featured Fox shocks, 18-inch wheels rolling Michelin all-terrain tires, LED headlights, skid plates, leather seats and a moonroof. The 2019 Tundra shines with standard safety equipment, including adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warnings, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and our personal favorite — automatic high-beam headlights — earning the Tundra four stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Tundra is the oldest of today’s full-size pickups, and has fallen somewhat behind the newer Chevy Silverado, GMC Sierra, Ford F-150 and Nissan Titan. The regular cab configuration was dropped from the Tundra lineup last year.
Walkaround: There are five models of the Tundra, but this review will focus on our test driver, the TRD Pro. While each trim level has its own distinctive styling, the TRD Pro eschews brightwork in favor of a monotone scheme. The Tundra is not quite as polished as its newer competition. For example, there’s no lockable cargo bed storage or bumper steps.
Interior: The TRD Pro CrewMax offers comfortable seating for five, with ample legroom for everyone. Instrumentation is large and set in a wide, logically arranged, symmetrical dashboard. The center console can hide a laptop, and there’s numerous infotainment system options.
Under the Hood: The powerful iForce V8 delivers 381 ponies with 401 pound-feet of torque. It’s married to a smooth six-speed automatic.
Behind the Wheel: The 5.7-liter powerplant offers decent acceleration coupled with a sporty exhaust note. The smooth-shifting six-speed automatic responds promptly. On the road, the TRD Pro feels solid and handles well, with ride quality that’s composed and comfortable — even on rough pavement. It tracks better than most, but maneuvers like a truck. The wide turning radius can make parking lots and tight spaces challenging. Toyota’s easy-to-use 4WD system functions via a dashboard-mounted knob.
Bottom Line: The Tundra TRD Pro is a good, solid pickup with extensive safety features. The entire Tundra lineup is due for a refresh, as some competitors offer higher tow ratings and more lavish special editions. However, Toyota’s legendary reliability still remains unchallenged.
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