Toyota Tundra

Toyota Tundra Review - What the Auto Press Says

The 2012 Toyota Tundra ranks 5 out of 10 Full Size Pickup Trucks. This ranking is based on our analysis of 70 published reviews and test drives of the Toyota Tundra, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Though the 2012 Toyota Tundra isn’t a bad truck, it’s outperformed by nearly every one of its domestic rivals.

Test drivers say that the 2012 Toyota Tundra will perform most of the towing, hauling and people-moving tasks you ask of it. Though it tows less than its top competitors, the Tundra is still almost as capable as most other full-size pickup trucks. It’s available in a few different configurations, which reviewers appreciate. Testers say the 2012 Tundra has a surprisingly roomy back seat, and its interior electronics and controls are easy to use.

 

However, like the lackluster Nissan Titan, the Tundra is outdone by American brand trucks in nearly every way. The Ford F-150 and Ram 1500 can tow more, though the Ram’s limit is only 50 pounds more than the Tundra’s. The Ford, Ram and the GMC Sierra 1500 Denali offer near-luxury levels of interior comfort and technology, which the Toyota Tundra can’t come close to. Plus, the Tundra’s fuel economy lags behind most of its competitors, especially the Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid and the Ford F-150 with the Ecoboost engine.

Overall, if you’re a Toyota loyalist and you need a hardworking truck, reviewers say you won’t be disappointed by the 2012 Tundra. But if you’ve got an open mind and want the best truck in the class, you should consider a Ford or Ram.
Other Trucks to Consider

The Ram 1500 offers far more trim levels and cab and bed configurations than the Toyota Tundra, and can be equipped to be one of the most luxurious trucks on the market. Plus, it has an advanced rear suspension that test drivers say makes it the best-handling pickup truck on the market. The Ram’s base model also starts significantly less than the Tundra, though when fully-loaded, its price can skyrocket much higher than a fully-loaded Tundra. Still, if you prioritize a luxe interior and good handling, the Ram 1500 can’t be matched.

 

The Ford F-150 ranks at the top of its segment for its class-leading tow rating and innovative interior features. Ford’s Work Solutions system allows buyers to track tools, keep an eye on other trucks in the fleet, monitor gas usage and idling time and even print invoices, all from an in-dash computer. That, plus the F-150’s abundance of interior, powertrain, cab and bed configurations and its ability to tow more than any other full-size truck makes the F-150 a top pick for shoppers who need the most capable full-size pickup available.
Details: Toyota Tundra

The 2012 Toyota Tundra comes in two trim levels and can be configured with a regular, extended or crew cab and a long bed. For 2012, the Tundra doesn’t see many significant changes. It gains standard heated side mirrors and daytime running lamps, an available chrome package and some other small trim level features shuffling.