?Toyota?s Third Generation Tundra American made?
2014 Toyota Tundra claims highest US/Canadian parts content
The 2014 Toyota Tundra represents the third generation of the popular, full-size half-ton pickup truck. The latest Tundra lineup features a new, more chiseled exterior styling along with an all-new interior design that is a blend of refinement, quality and craftsmanship and improved functionality. The new Tundra lays claim to the highest content (75%) of US and Canadian parts.
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There are several grades of this latest iteration Toyota Tundra. The base model is the SR, followed by the SR5, then the Limited, and finally the Platinum and 1794 Edition, which share the podium as the flagship models.
Three engine variants power the various model Tundras: a 4.0-liter 270 horsepower V6; a 4.6-liter V8 that produces 310 horsepower; and the big Kahuna 5.7-liter V8 that cranks out 381 horses along with 401 pound feet of torque. The 4.0-liter V6 mates to a 5-speed automatic overdrive transmission; the 4.6-liter V8 is coupled to a 6-speed automatic overdrive transmission, as is the 5.7-liter V8. Final drive configuration is available as either 2WD rear or 4×4 four-wheel demand system with electronically controlled two-speed transfer case. Towing capacity is 10,000 pounds plus when powered by the 5.7-liter V8.
Tundra cab choices consist of: a two-door Regular Cab; a Double Cab and the CrewMax Cab both with four doors. All are available in either 4×2 or 4×4 drive configurations. Bed lengths are: 66.7-inches; 78.7-inches; and 97.6-inches. All beds measure 22.2-inches in depth. Regular Cabs seat 3; double and CrewMax Cabs seat 5 OR 6, depending on seat type (front buckets seat 5 ? two bench seats seat 6).
The interiors of the trucks feature sensible switchgear and controls with round knobs that can be easily used. The center stack and steering wheel center sport a unique matching design layout, with gauges grouped for easy visibility, and a multi-information screen positioned in the center of the instrument panel. Storage areas for personal gear and electronic gadgetry are plentiful.
The 1794 trim level is new for the 2014 model year, and is named to pay homage to the JLC ranch that was founded in 1794, which is the site where the newest Toyota plant is located in San Antonio, Texas. The 1794 Edition shares top billing with the Platinum model, in terms of equipment and features, but the interior is executed in an elegant and tasteful western theme sporting exclusive saddle brown premium leather-trimmed seating with embossed leather logos and suede trim accents.
All 2014 Tundra?s come with a standard rear backup camera and cross traffic alert as well as features such as Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming, four-wheel vented disc brakes, trailer sway control, Entune?Audio systems, a windshield deicer and more. The two upper scale model Tundras deliver even more in terms of equipment and features. Headlights may be adjusted to account for a heavy payload at the flip of a switch.
Tundra?s payload capacity varies by model, engine size, cab configuration and bed size, ranging from1, 255 pounds up to 2,040 pounds. Towing capacity ranges from 9,000 pounds to 10,400 pounds, also dependent upon engine size, cab configuration and bed size. Tundra is even credited for towing the Space Shuttle Endeavor for a quarter mile in a recent public relations exercise.
Every 2014 Toyota Tundra model features a new tailgate that comes with an integrated spoiler and the ?TUNDRA? logo embossed into lower right corner of the sheet metal. The tailgate is both lockable and internally damped for easy and quiet operation.
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My test 2014 Toyota Tundra was a 1794 Edition 4×4 with the 5.7-liter V8 hooked up to the 6-speed automatic overdrive transmission. The exterior was sprayed Attitude Black metallic and the interior was executed in the alluring Saddle Brown leather with embossed accents. The base price was set at $47,320, which came to $48,315 after adding the Destination charge. It rode on 20-inch chrome clad 5-spoke alloy wheels, shod with Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza rubber (275/55 R20 111H M&S fore and aft.
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SUMMARY: Piloting the big new 3rd generation Toyota Tundra was more like driving a luxury SUV than a full size pickup. The ride quality was smooth and compliant even when unladen.?Acceleration was crisp and responsive, braking positive and the steering was on center and nearly effortless.
Ideal for towing, the 1794 Edition Tundra featured a special Tow/Haul mode for enhanced uphill/downhill control when tailoring. The Tundra is equally suited to off-road adventures. Safety systems abound as part of Toyota?s Star Safety System, including: Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, ABS, EBD, BA, Smart Stop Technology, Trailer Sway Control and Tire Pressure Monitor System. A complete airbag system is also onboard for the ultimate in crash protection.
Visually, the 2014 Toyota Tundra 1794 Edition is poised to do battle with the older established domestic truck manufacturers. It presents a big, bold and athletic stance and persona, sporting one of several ?in-your-face? grille treatments, which varies with different trim levels.
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The Tundra truck stable is built to be tough and dependable, in keeping with Toyota?s reputation for quality and reliability. It is truck to be reckoned with in today?s hauler marketplace.
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?[wptabtitle] SPECIFICATIONS: 2014 Toyota Tundra 1794 Edition 4×4 [/wptabtitle]
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| Base Price: | $47,320. |
| Price as Tested: | $48,315. |
| Engine Type and Size: | 5.7-liter DOHC, 32-valve V8 with electronic fuel injection and Dual VVT-i. Optional Flex-fuel capability. |
| Horsepower (bhp): | 381 @ 5,600 rpm |
| Torque (ft./ lbs.): | 401 @ 3,600 rpm |
| Transmission: | Six-speed automatic overdrive. |
| Drive Train: | Longitudinally mounted front engine / 4×4 four-wheel demand system with electronically controlled two-speed transfer case. |
| Suspension: |
Front – Independent high-mounted double-wishbone front suspension with1.42-inch stabilizer bar and low-pressure nitrogen gas shock absorbers. Rear: Live axle with trapezoid multi-leaf springs. Inboard-mounted low-pressure nitrogen gas shock absorbers. |
| Brakes: | Power-assisted four-wheel ventilated with 4-wheel discs, ABS with EBD, BA, TRAC, VSC, auto LSD and A-TRAC. |
| Tires: | Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza 275/55 R20 mounted on 6-spoke chrome-clad alloy wheels. |
| Wheelbase: | 145.7 inches |
| Length Overall: | 228.9 inches |
| Width: | 79.9 inches |
| Height: | 76.2 inches |
| Curb Weight: | 5,860 lbs. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 26.4 gallons |
| EPA Mileage Estimates: | TBA mpg city / TBA mpg highway |
| Drag Coefficient: | 0.38 |
| 0 – 60 mph: | Not tested. |
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