The 2020 Toyota Tundra packs all of Toyota’s ingenuity and dedication to technology into an extremely capable full-size pickup truck. It’s ready to work, go on adventures, and fit your lifestyle however you need it to. Starting at an affordable MSRP of $33,575, and equipped with plenty of modern safety features, the Tundra is ready for anything.
While Toyota is a world-renowned automotive brand, the full-size Tundra isn’t quite as popular as some other full-size options. Namely, there are full-size trucks from multiple American manufacturers that seem to get all the attention, which begs the question, can the Tundra compete? Let’s take a look at the 2020 Toyota Tundra and see if it can check all your boxes.
The World of Toyota Trucks
The world of Toyota trucks isn’t vast, as there are only two options: the Tacoma and the Tundra. Truck categories aren’t necessarily large by any means, as most manufacturers only have two to three options. Toyota just appears to be missing the heavy-duty variant that other brands are offering.
It’s not a huge deal, as Toyota is very focused on their SUV and car categories, which are always very popular. That’s not to mention the midsize Tacoma pickup that consistently draws in customers year after year. Still, the Tundra also provides a decent showing every year, and that’s probably due in part to the draw of the Toyota namesake and their unique approach to their vehicles.
Trim Levels and Engine Options
As mentioned above, the 2020 Toyota Tundra starts off at $33,575. Compared to other similar options within the full-size pickup industry, that might seem a little high. However, you should realize that Toyotas operate a little differently. Most Toyota vehicles don’t come with multiple engine options. Instead, most models will have one powerful engine option that can get the job done. So a base model Toyota Tundra will generally have more features and performance attached to it than a similar base model variant from another brand.
All 2020 Toyota Tundra models come with a 5.7L V8 engine with an output of up to 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. This engine and transmission are included across all Tundra models. In comparison, the 2020 Ford F-150 base model comes with a 3.3L V6 engine with an output of 290 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. The 2020 Chevy Silverado 1500 base model comes with a 4.3L V6 engine with an output of up to 285 hp and 305 lb-ft of torque.
You would have to move up to the F-150 King Ranch ($52,990) or the Silverado 1500 LTZ ($43,000) to get standard engines that had closer outputs to the Tundra’s engine, and that would cost quite a bit more money.
The 2020 Toyota Tundra SR starts at $33,575, the SR5 at $35,245, the Limited at $42,270, the Platinum at $48,775, the 1794 Edition at $48,775, and the TRD Pro at $48,655. The Platinum and 1794 Edition models would be considered the top Tundra models that come with the most features and highest price tags. The TRD Pro, though, is shown at the end of the list because it’s unique and meant for off-roading.
Payload and Towing
When properly configured, the 2020 Toyota Tundra has a maximum towing capacity of over 10,200 lbs and a maximum payload capacity of over 1,700 lbs. All Tundra models come with the Tow Package that includes a towing hitch receiver, Tow/Haul Mode, Integrated Trailer Brake Controller, heavy-duty battery, 170-amp alternator, and 4-/7-pin connector. If you opt for the available 38-gallon fuel tank, you’ll be more than ready to make the long haul, whether it’s for work or for an adventure.
The included Tow/Haul Mode makes the Tundra more efficient when you’re towing heavy loads. It will hold gears longer and increase throttle response, pulling power, and engine braking. With the Integrated Trailer Brake Controller and Trailer-Sway Control, trailering has never been easier. Trailer sway is automatically detected, and you can adjust the amount of trailer braking, depending on the weight of the trailer.
Technology
Trucks aren’t just workhorses these days. They’re meant to be convenient and comfortable as well, which is why the Tundra is packed with technology features. You don’t have to worry about riding around in an old, outdated pickup when you have Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibilities. There are also plenty of USB ports, at least a 7-inch touchscreen, SiriusXM access, advanced voice recognition, music streaming via Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities.
In short, the Tundra is ready to keep you and your passengers entertained and comfortable. If you move up the trim levels, you can also have a 12-speaker JBL audio system, Dynamic Navigation, an 8-inch touchscreen, and Dynamic Voice Recognition.
Safety
Safety is never compromised with a Toyota, and that includes the 2020 Toyota Tundra. All models come with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), which is one of Toyota’s suite of safety features. It includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert, Automatic High Beams, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. The Star Safety System is also included in all models.
The features on this system are Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Anti-lock Brake System with Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, and Smart Stop Technology. Certain models also include Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Glass Breakage Sensor.
Often, pickup trucks seem to lag behind when it comes to safety features. There doesn’t seem to be as much emphasis put on the overall safety of trucks in general, but with Toyota, that’s not the case.
Who is the 2020 Toyota Tundra Right For?
In many ways, the 2020 Toyota Tundra is the ideal choice for people who don’t want to stress too much about making decisions between a variety of different options. These days, there are so many options during the car-buying experience that it can become a bit overwhelming. With the Tundra, you get your one excellent engine option, a whole suite of safety features on every model, and updated technology features across the board.
So if every model comes with great features, what exactly is the point of the higher models? Well, there are always a few things that can be upgraded, including the actual interior look and feel, as well as a few extra safety features here and there. Overall, though, every model already includes a lot of things, so if you’re going to upgrade, then it’s probably for aesthetic purposes or the increased versatility of the TRD Pro model.
If you want a few great options to choose from, the 2020 Toyota Tundra could be a great fit. It competes with the well-known Ford and Chevy trucks, but it outshines them in many regards. The Tundra is a powerful and durable vehicle that comes at an affordable price. Plus, it can still get the job done when you need it to. Basically, the Tundra would be perfect for anyone who needs a great full-size pickup and is interested in how Toyota approaches building their vehicles with lots of technology and safety features.
