March 1, 2006

Toyota unveiled the next-generation Tundra full-size pickup truck at the 2006 Chicago Auto Show. The first complete makeover since its introduction in 1999 as a 2000, the new Tundra will be lager and more powerful for 2007.

Toyota is aiming high with the new design, looking to capture more of the full-size truck segment from domestic brands that dominate the market. The previous Tundra did not quite size up to the competition from Ford, GM and Dodge. To remedy this, the new model will be available in more body configurations and engine sizes.

To address overall power, an all-new 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine will be offered. The new V8 will be manufactured at Toyota's Alabama engine plant, and mated to a new heavy-duty six-speed automatic transmission. A new chassis with 30 percent higher tensile strength steel, along with the added power from the new V8, will give the Tunrda the ability to tow over 10,000 pounds. To assist heavy towing duties, the brake system will be equipped with front and rear disc brakes, including four-piston calipers on the front, along with rotors that are nearly one and one-half inches larger than the previous generation. High capacity cooling and electrical systems will round out the package. The Tundra will also be offered with the 4.0-liter V6 and the 4.7-liter i-Force V8.

The new Tundra is truly an American effort: product planning handled by Toyota Motor Sales headquarters in Southern California; engineering development by Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan; and styling, both inside and out, thanks to Toyota's Calty Research and Design Centers in Newport Beach, California and Ann Arbor, Michigan. The new Tundra will be built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing in Princeton, Indiana and Toyota's new truck plant in San Antonio, Texas.

Tundra has been increased in size in nearly every dimension. Its all-new platform will feature a significantly expanded wheelbase and an increase of 10 inches in overall length. Tundra will also gain nearly five inches in height and will be four full inches wider than before, placing it right up there with domestic competition in overall size.

Calty's design uses bulging fenders, flowing lines, and rugged shapes to complement the larger size of the new Tundra. The grill is surrounded by a massive chrome boarder that protrudes out over the bumper and resembles a giant snout, that continues up the raised hood. The headlights are set high, typical of recent Toyota design, and wrap around and flow into the fenders which are set low to accentuate the lofty hood.

Large, easy-to-grasp door handles, provide access to the new interior. The driver is surrounded by what Toyota calls a "command and control" center. The design provides the driver an unobstructed view of the instrument panel and puts knobs, and puts switches and buttons within close reach.

Toyota claims the new Tundra interior will offer class-leading room and comfort. Front passengers will appreciate an additional four inches of shoulder room and four inches more hip room, while the second row passengers will gain three inches more shoulder room and six inches of additional hip room. Interior storage capacity is increased with the addition of hidden storage compartments, second-row seats that double as work surfaces, and a larger center console box.

The Tundra will be loaded with standard-equipped comfort and convenience features. An array of options and accessories will also be offered, such as a JBL premium audio system with Bluetooth telephone compatibility, 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and a wide-screen backup camera integrated into the tailgate handle for enhanced rear-view safety.

Utility is key when it comes to designing a truck, and Toyota has taken this to heart with the design of the tailgate. The tailgate can be opened and closed with just two fingers. Robust dampers on the hinges have been added to help cushion the tailgate when opening and also help reduce bouncing when driving with the tailgate down.

Designers also had safety in mind with the addition of extra large side mirrors to provide a wide field of view, while reducing wind noise and image vibration, which will be appreciated whether towing a trailer, or simply maneuvering in the grocery store parking lot. Additionally, a trailer hitch will be integrated into the Tundra's frame for better stability when handling heavy loads.

The all-new Tundra will arrive in dealer showrooms in early 2007.