Variety the Name of the Game for the 2023 Toyota Tundra

The previous-generation Tundra was a great example of what a truly honest pickup truck would look like. Hard-working, V8-powered, spacious no-nonsense interior, leaf springs at the back – it had all that, and it was good. It was durable, easy to maintain and provided a good mix of space shuttle-towing power and interior comfort.

Times do change, of course, and so for this new generation – of which the 2023 model is proudly a part of – a lot of that had to be massaged, tweaked, or completely replaced.

Starting with the engine; the i-FORCE V8 had been doing work for over a decade, and with new restrictions on emissions and skyrocketing gas prices, it had to go. So it went, and for 2023, the Tundra is available with a gas engine in two states of tune, and a hybrid engine. All three takes on the Tundra’s lifeforce start as a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 – the 4 x 4 and base SR5 4 x 4 truck get 348 horsepower and 405 pound-feet of torque, while higher trims (there are 21 altogether) get 389 hp and 470 lb-ft. All Tundras get a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The rear power champion, however, is the i-FORCE MAX hybrid which makes 437 hp and 583 lb-ft and the ability to tow up to 12,000 pounds. That’s some proper pickup functionality. Add a solid rear axle with coil springs and optional self-levelling ait suspension, and that’s some proper pickup comfort.

For 2023, three bed lengths and two cab style ae available: gas trucks have either a 5.5-, a 6.5- or an 8.1-foot bed, while i-FORCE MAX trucks get only the two smaller beds. Gas trucks also get to choose from either a Crewmax or Double Cab, while once again the hybrid is available only with a single choice: the larger Crewmax. It’s also the hybrid powertrain you’ll have to opt for if you’re looking at the TRD Pro off-road special, that provides Fox off road suspension components, TRD skidplates, special BBS wheels and a host of other goodies to make your Tundra that much more unique.

All Tundras get Toyota Interface on-board infotainment, however, which comes equipped with either an 8” or 14” touchscreen display. This being the latest in Toyota’s multimedia system, it also provides access to the “Hey, Toyota” virtual assistant that can take care of many of your in-car and on-road needs without you having to distract yourself with a touchscreen.        

Hybrid or gas, long bed or short, there’s a Tundra fit for anyone.