2023 Toyota Thundra  review

When Toyota redesigned its full-size Tundra pickup for 2022,
fourteen years after selling the same base model, it chose evolution over
revolution. It doesn’t change the status quo of the larger pickup, though it
doesn’t exactly follow the domestic pickup truck blueprint either. For one
thing, it’s the only full-size pickup in the half-ton segment without an
optional V-8 engine. Powered exclusively by a twin-turbocharged V-6, the base
version of the engine comes with 348 or 379 horsepower depending on the model,
while the more powerful hybridized variant (reviewed separately) makes 583
pound-feet of torque. Produces 437 horsepower.

 Every Tundra uses a 10-speed
automatic transmission with rear or four-wheel drive. Unlike domestic pickups,
there is no automatic four-wheel drive system available. The Tundra comes as an
extended or crew cab and offers a 5.5-, 6.5-, or 8.1-foot bed, depending on cab
size and trim. Its seven levels of equipment meet the needs of workplaces,
businesses, off-road, and suburban areas—where an elegant interior is required.
This Texas truck has an optional longhorn-shaped infotainment screen that is
14.0 inches wide. A major redesign in 2022 brought a new coil-spring rear
suspension, giving it a comfortable ride. Other trucks that use leaf springs
bounce and vibrate more. The 12,000-pound maximum towing capacity is
impressive, but it’s not as high as what the Ram 1500, Chevrolet Silverado
1500, or Ford F-150 offer.

What is new in the 2023
Toyota Thundra?

As the Tundra was redesigned just last year, Toyota is keeping its
full-size pickup mostly the same for 2023. New for the SR5 this year, the SX
trims an appearance package that adds black and dark gray design elements to
the Tundra’s exterior and interior trims. The SX package includes dark gray
18-inch wheels, black door handles, body trim, rear bumper middle section, and
darkening of the rear 4×4 badge.

 The interior accents have also been changed to
black, and the Tundra door badges have been removed. The SX package can be
added with white, silver, gray, or black exterior paint options.

 

Pricing and which one
to buy.

The 2023 Toyota Thundra has a higher starting price than its
domestic rivals. However, Toyota’s entry-level SR trim has more desirable
standard features, including a 379-hp twin-turbo V-6 and coil-spring rear
suspension. (Coil-spring rear suspension is also standard on the Ram 1500.) We
think getting the SR5 with the TRD Off-Road Package brings an electronically
locking rear differential, unique wheels, upgraded suspension and other
additions.

 

Engine, transmission,
and performance

The 2023 Toyota Thundra is the only full-size pickup truck not
available with a V-8 engine. Instead, it’s offered only with a twin-turbo V-6
and a 10-speed automatic transmission. This engine comes in three different
capacities. On the base SR trim, the engine produces 348 horsepower and 405
pound-feet of torque. Otherwise, it makes 389 horses and 479 pound-feet. At our
test track, our limited-edition test truck delivered a 6.1-second
zero-to-60-mph time. There is also a changed rear suspension from its
predecessor, which previously used a leaf spring setup. The Tundra now uses a
more refined coil-spring rear suspension that improves its ride and handling
characteristics.

 This was evident from the versions we ran. Toyota continues to
offer the popular TRD Off-Road and TRD Sport packages. The former features an
off-road suspension, skid plates, and unique wheels. The latter features a lowered suspension and 20-inch wheels. Those seeking maximum off-road
capabilities will want the TRD Pro, which includes a lifted suspension and
special dampers, as well as a special set of black 18-inch wheels mounted on
all-terrain tires. There’s also a hybrid version of the Tundra that makes 437
horses and 583 pound-feet and trims the zero-to-60 mph time to just 5.7
seconds. We examine this model separately.

 

Towing and payload
capacity

The 2023 Toyota Thundra is capable of towing up to 12,000 pounds,
which is slightly less than other full-size trucks. The F-150, for example, can
tow up to 14,000 pounds. The Tundra also has a maximum payload capacity of
1,940 pounds. Again, several other half-ton pickups can carry more weight in
their cargo bed, with the Ford reaching a payload of 3250 pounds.

 

Fuel economy and
real-world MPG

With the non-hybrid powertrain, the two-wheel-drive Tundra is rated
for 20 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. Four-wheel drive lowers those figures by 1
mpg. On our 75 mph highway route, part of our extensive testing regimen, the
Tundra Limited delivered just 19 mpg. For more information on Tundra fuel economy
ratings, visit the EPA website.

 

Interior, comfort, and
cargo

Inside, the Tundra features a small dashboard with prominent air
vents and a thick, smooth center section that connects the door panels. The
materials used on the center console, dash, and doors are much better than those
used in the previous generation.

 Of course, quality also increases with trim
levels, with the top-of-the-line 1794 Edition sporting attractive wood accents.
All models feature a versatile center console with plenty of cubby storage and
a large center bin. While a pair of analog gauges and a small driver
information display are the standard instrument panel, upper trim levels get a
12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. The Tundra comes in 2 body styles with three
different cargo bed lengths. Extended cabs are available with a 6.5- or
8.1-foot bed. The Crew Cab (aka Crew Max) is offered with a 5.5- or 6.5-foot
bed.

 

Infotainment &
Connectivity

Very large touchscreens measuring at least 12 inches are now
available on almost every full-size pickup truck – save the Nissan Titan. While
an 8.0-inch touchscreen is standard in the 2023 Toyota Thundra, it can be
upgraded with a horizontally oriented 14.0-inch touchscreen that surpasses what
is offered in all other trucks. It features a useful volume knob as well as
wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but there’s no tuning knob and the
steering wheel controls have limited functionality. Subscription-based Wi-Fi
hotspots are also offered.

All Specifications of Toyota Thundra 2023: