There’s something about the pickup truck that makes it one of the most exciting vehicles on the market. Perhaps it’s because it remains one of the most versatile options when it comes to transportation. Even in its formative years, it proved to be adept at handling heavy workloads and maintaining infrastructure from coast to coast. As time passed, the pickup became widely favored among many who favored their adventures on the less traveled path.
In recent years, the vehicle has transcended luxury and sophistication and become a definitive status symbol for many. And while the usual suspects of Ford, Chevy, GMC, and RAM are the models that get discussed the most, it’s important not to rule out Toyota. Recently benefitting from a complete redesign during the 2022 model year, the 2023 Toyota Tundra has arrived to deliver high performance for the masses. If you’re looking for a vehicle with maximum capability and are currently looking at Toyota trucks for sale, then you’ll want to read on.
One Powertrain, Endless Possibilities
In recent years, many different manufacturers have taken to streamlining production by making one single powertrain available on all levels of trim. The 2023 Toyota Tundra is no exception to this. In a move that shows a willingness to think outside the box, Toyota has passed on the utilization of a V8 engine and has decided to give the Tundra an engine that fires on all six cylinders, as well as a hybrid counterpart for those who prioritize efficiency.
This takes the form of a turbocharged V6 equipped with a highly capable ten-speed automatic transmission. What makes this engine unique is that its specs change based on the trim level. The base trim, known as the SR, benefits from 358 hp and the capacity to generate 406 lb-ft of torque. All other trims have the advantage of the horsepower being raised to 389 hp and the torque output upped to 479 lb-ft. Just as impressive is the vehicle’s fuel economy, which offers drivers 18 MPG when in the city and 24 MPG during highway travels.
The TRD Off-Road Package
For the men and women who prefer their adventures to take place off the beaten path and away from the pavement and civilization, the TRD Pro trim is precisely what you need to conquer the terrains other vehicles can’t adapt to. Toyota has gone above and beyond expectations to deliver the ideal vehicle for the off-roader.
It all begins with the 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires from Falken and exclusive shocks designed by Bilstein, skid plates to keep your underbelly protected from sand and gravel, and an upgraded suspension designed specifically for traversing the wildest of terrains are also in place. The TRD Off-Road Package can be equipped with either 2WD or 4WD configurations, as well as any body style. The package becomes available from the SR5 trim and up.
The TRD Sport Package
While there’s certainly a large number of drivers who choose to utilize the pickup for occupational obligations and off-roading, there are some who choose the pickup as a status symbol and simply enjoy a luxurious ride and the capacity to make a memorable first impression. If you fall into this category, then Toyota has precisely what you need in the form of the TRD Sport Package. With 20-inch wheels and a slightly lowered suspension, the TRD Sport Package has more of an emphasis on style and presentation than off-roading.
The SR5 trim and higher get the benefit of an infotainment screen that stretches out to 14 inches and is much more sophisticated than the standard 8-inch screen that comes with the base trim. A series of badges and specifically designed buttons accentuate the interior and exterior of the vehicle, making it ideal for those who have a fondness for aesthetics.
Three Driving Modes for Any Occasion
It’s been well-documented that no two drivers are the same. While this usually applies to driving habits and what features one might find appealing, it can also apply to the different types of commuting that one undertakes on any given day. As such, Toyota vehicles come equipped with three unique driving modes that can be effectively utilized at any given moment. These are known as Eco, Sport, and Normal.
Normal Mode
As the name suggests, this is the mode you’ll most likely use for your average commute and everyday driving situations. If you’re driving your Tundra through the city limits or the suburbs, this will be ideal.
Sport Mode
For highway driving or off-roading, sport mode is what you’ll most likely want to use. Throttle response is increased, allowing you to exert more acceleration without engaging the gas pedal as much. It’s recommended that you disengage sport mode when you come off the highway or the trail.
Eco Mode
While the performance attributes of the Toyota Tundra might appeal to you, there’s a time and place for certain driving habits. If you spend a fair amount of time commuting in the city, you’re certainly familiar with the stop-and-go traffic patterns contained therein. Eco mode operates in the polar opposite way that sport mode does and decreases throttle response. This is ideal for when you’re trying to conserve fuel and don’t need to travel at a high rate of speed.
The Multi-Terrain Select System and Trailering Features
With the versatility of the Toyota Tundra is well documented, and the truck being capable of accomplishing a multitude of feats, there’s a common ground that off-roaders and workers share with one another, and that’s mastery of their terrain and the ability to carry the heavy burdens of their respected fields. Towing and terrain management are both important factors. When it comes to keeping yourself on a level playing field, there are features such as Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control. These allow you to maintain control over your vehicle over ground that might be uneven or inhospitable.
For those who plan on hitching up a trailer before embarking on their journey, Trailer-Sway Control and an integrated Trailer Brake Controller are there to ensure that your cargo stays safe and that you can maintain control over its position. It should also be noted that Full-Speed Range Dynamic Cruise Control comes standard on the Tundra. This feature can certainly come in handy if you’re covering long distances with cargo in tow. By maintaining a safe distance from the other vehicles, you’ll be able to preserve reaction time and avoid a potential collision.
A Thrilling Full-Size Truck That Is Worth Considering
With its highly-capable powertrain that can be had on all levels of trim, the 2023 Toyota Tundra brings performance to the forefront and makes it more accessible than it’s ever been before. No matter what your intention might be, getting behind the wheel of a Tundra might be the best decision you make in the upcoming year. Perfectly suited for style, off-roading, or performance, there’s no question that the Toyota Tundra is here to bring a superior truck to the masses who need it. The possibilities and accomplishments you can achieve are endless, and you just need to get a set of keys and plot your course toward your local Toyota dealer.
