Toyota introduced its 2010 Tundra at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show. Among the changes to the lineup in general is the addition of a new engine, a 4.6 liter V-8 that produces 310 horsepower and 327 lb-ft of torque. It replaces a 4.7 liter V-8.
Toyota’s preliminary estimates indicate that a Tundra equipped with the new engine will get about 15 mpg in city driving and 20 mpg on the highway. Fuel mileage specs are helped in part by pairing the engine with a 6-speed automatic transmission (previously available only with the 5.7 liter V-8).
The 6-speed's extra overdrive gear lets the engine move slower while it’s maintaining speed, improving fuel mileage.
The 5.7 liter V-8 is still available on the Tundra, and its Flex Fuel capability allows the use of E-85 Ethanol fuel.
Tundra Work Truck
If you're looking for a basic truck, the Tundra Work Truck Package may be just what you need. Designed around a “No Frills” concept, the 2010 package will be offered in 4X2 or 4X4 pickups, standard cab or double cab and standard or long bed. Choose from a V-6 engine or one of the two V-8s.Work Truck Exterior Features
- Black bumpers and grille surround
- Manual outside mirrors
- Vinyl bench seat, rubber floor covering and the deletion of some comfort items, such as the courtesy lighting group
- Deletion of keyless entry and cruise control (available as options)
The Work Truck package should reduce the truck's base price by about $550 to $650 (final pricing won’t be announced until shortly before 2010 model release).
2010 Tundra Platinum Edition
On the other end of the spectrum is the Tundra Platinum Package, offered on black, silver, slate and Salsa Red Tundra CrewMax Limited trucks equipped with the 5.7 liter Flex Fuel engine.Toyota estimates that the Platinum Package will add about $5,100 to the truck’s price tag.
Exterior Platinum Package features include:
- A chrome billet style grille
- Unique 20-inch wheels
- Daytime running lights
- Door sill protectors with the Platinum logo and badging
Extra creature comforts come in the form of a power driver's seat with memory, power outside mirrors, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, power moonroof, navigation, ventilated leather seats with the Platinum logo embroidered on the headrest and a combination of wood and chrome interior trim.
Changes on All Tundra Trucks
In addition to the new packages, all 2010 Tundra trucks receive driver and front passenger knee airbags and height-adjustable headlamps.Two new audio systems are offered for 2010: a Tech Audio system with am/fm/cd, integrated satellite radio receiver, Bluetooth, auxiliary and USB input and six speakers; a variation of the current JBL system is available on the 2010 truck without navigation. It does include am/fm/cd, auxiliary input, a backup camera monitor and six speakers.