Toyota Capstone Tundra | Interior and Walkaround

Toyota Capstone Tundra | Interior and Walkaround

Toyota is giving the Tundra a much-needed, total makeover after the previous generation was largely unchanged from its 2007 debut. Even though it was refreshed for the 2014 model year, it struggled to steal sales from domestic half-ton competitors like the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, Chevy Silverado 1500, and GMC Sierra 1500.

The new Tundra is still not expected to outsell any of those alternatives. but its myriad improvements should make it much more competitive and desirable when it hits dealers. winter. The new top-of-the-line Capstone features 22-inch wheels, gleaming chrome and a whole host of cool features.

Engine, transmission, and performance

The 2022 Tundra is the only full-size pickup truck not available with a V-8 engine. Instead, it's only offered with a twin-turbo V-6 and a 10-speed automatic transmission. This engine comes in three different power ratings. In the base SR trim, the non-hybrid engine develops 348 horsepower and 405 pound-feet of torque. Otherwise, it makes 389 horsepower and 479 pound-feet.

At our test track, our non-hybrid Limited test car went from zero to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds. The hybrid version is equipped with an electric motor integrated into the transmission, which enables purely electric driving at low speeds.

The combination generates a combined 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet and cut the zero-to-60 mph time to just 5.7 seconds. Also changed from its predecessor was the rear suspension, which previously used a leaf spring setup. The Tundra now uses a more sophisticated rear suspension with coil springs that improves its ride and handling.

This was evident in the versions we drove. Toyota continues to offer the popular TRD Off-Road and TRD Sport packages. The former includes off-road suspension, skids and unique wheels. The latter includes lowered suspension and 20-inch wheels.

Those looking for maximum off-road capability will want the TRD Pro, which features a raised suspension and exclusive shocks, as well as a special set of black 18-inch wheels mounted on off-road tires.

Real-world fuel economy and MPG

With a non-hybrid powertrain, the two-wheel-drive Tundra is rated for up to 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway; all-wheel drive lowers those figures by 1 mpg each. The hybrid model is rated at up to 20 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. On our 75 mph highway route, part of our extensive testing regime, the hybrid model delivered just 19 mpg.