TOYOTA ADDS FLEX FUEL AND NEW TRD MODELS TO TUNDRA PICKUP LINE FOR 2009
09/10/2008
Toyota
Toyota is expanding consumer choice with the Tundra full-size pickup truck line for 2009, adding flex fuel models and new TRD (Toyota Racing Development) option packages. The E85 flex fuel is available on 5.7-liter 4x4 models in select regions - creating 10 model configurations in all.
Two new TRD option packages underscore two sides of Tundra's capability. The TRD Rock Warrior Package adds off-road suspension, unique wheels, and a striking Black or Super White exterior color scheme. The TRD Sport Package with a distinctive Black or Radiant Red color-keyed exterior is optimized for on-road performance and has unique wheels.
Also for 2009, Double Cab and Crew Max models gain a standard chrome grille surround. A bench front seat is a new no-cost option on SR5 grade models. Altogether, the 2009 Tundra offers a choice of 45 models in three wheelbases, three cab styles, three bed lengths, three engines, and three trim levels, and with 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrains.
Performance
Standard in Tundra Regular and Double Cab models, a 4.0-liter V6 produces 236 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 266 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. The mid-grade option for these models - and standard for the CrewMax models - is the 4.7-liter i-Force V8 producing 276 horsepower at 5,400 rpm and 313 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 3,400 rpm.
Both the V6 and i-Force 4.7-liter V8 feature DOHC 4-valve cylinder heads and Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) for responsive power across the engine's operating range. Both engines are teamed with a five-speed automatic transmission that features uphill/downhill shift logic.
A more powerful 5.7-liter i-Force V8 is available in every model configuration. Specifically engineered for full-size pickup applications, the i-Force 5.7-liter is a long-stroke design (4.02 in. stroke and 3.70 in. bore). In addition to its impressive 381 horsepower at 5,600 rpm, the i-Force 5.7 produces 401 lb.-ft of peak torque at 3,600 rpm.
To optimize power and fuel efficiency while minimizing emissions, the i-Force 5.7-liter V8 uses aluminum cylinder block and DOHC heads. A Dual VVT-i system controls valve timing and overlap on both the intake and exhaust valves.
All Tundra engines are equipped with the Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS). Butterfly valves inside the intake manifold switch the length of the intake runners in two stages, based on RPM and throttle angle, which improve efficiency across the engine speed range.
Tubular stainless steel 4-2-1 exhaust manifolds flow into a full stainless steel exhaust system with laser-welded, high-capacity mufflers. In both V8s, a crank-hold electronic starter control uses a "twist and release" ignition switch to prevent failed starts and grinding on a re-start attempt. Both Tundra V8 engines meet the Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle, or ULEV II, emissions certification.
The i-Force 5.7-liter is teamed exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission. Shift logic adapts the transmission's shift maps to driver input. Both Tundra transmissions use Toyota "WS" fluid with a flat viscosity/temperature curve (cold viscosity is close to warm viscosity). This fluid reduces friction and wear, enables faster vehicle warm-up, and never needs replacing. In both transmissions, a fluid warmer quickly brings the transmission fluid up to operating temperature to optimize cold-weather performance.
Capability, Handling and Ride
There are three Tundra wheelbases: 126.8 inches for Regular Cab/standard bed models; 145.7 inches for Regular Cab/long bed, Double Cab/standard bed and CrewMax models, and a massive 164.6 inches for Double Cab/long bed models. Tundra's advanced TripleTech frame uses wide, full-boxed frame rails for the front portion, reinforced C-channel under the cab and an open C-channel underneath the bed to maximize strength, ride quality and durability.
The double A-arm front suspension uses coil-over spring shock units, while a front-mounted steering rack helps enhance steering feel and response. The rear suspension uses staggered shocks mounted outboard of the springs to improve the shocks' dampening efficiency. Spring rates are tuned to provide a flat vehicle stance when fully loaded. The trapezoidal shape of the rear frame section provides "toe-out" mounting points for the rear leaf springs, which provides confident towing under a full load.
The Tundra is equipped with one of the largest standard wheels in the segment - 18 x 8 inches with 255/70 R18 tires. Limited grade models step up to standard 18 x 8 inch aluminum alloy wheels with wider 275/65 R18 tires. As an option, Limited models can be outfitted with 20-inch alloy wheels with 275/55 R20 tires. An optional TRD Off-Road Package combines off-road tuned suspension featuring Bilstein gas-charged mono-tube shock absorbers; 285/70 R17 B.F. Goodrich Radial T/A off-road tires on unique 17-inch alloy wheels; fog lamps, and special graphics.
The standard four-wheel disc brakes use large ventilated rotors. Front rotors measure 13.9 inches in diameter and 1.26-inches thick, with four-piston calipers. Rear rotors measure 13.6 x 0.71-inch and use two-piston calipers.
Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA) are standard on all Tundra models. EBD optimizes brake pressure at each wheel for greater control under braking, especially when cornering. BA is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking. If the driver has not pressed firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage the ABS, the system supplements the applied braking power until pedal pressure is released.
The standard Automatic Limited-slip Differential (Auto-LSD) helps provide better acceleration in deep sand or mud and on mixed friction surfaces. Compared to a conventional mechanical limited slip differential, the Auto-LSD system is much more responsive and has better wear characteristics. The combination of Auto-LSD and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) as standard equipment on every model was a significant "first" in the full-size pickup segment.
The Tundra's VSC system integrates traction control (TRAC), and enhances traction on or off-road by helping to keep the vehicle going on its intended course. VSC detects front-wheel slide and rear-wheel slide during cornering and attempts to control either condition with throttle intervention and/or by braking individual wheels.
Integration of these technologies also brings with it driver-selectable versatility to tackle just about any road surface or driving condition. In "normal" mode, VSC, TRAC and Auto-LSD all function to help enable traction and control capability. "TRAC Off" activates Auto-LSD to help extricate the Tundra from extreme conditions. The "VSC Off" mode turns off all of three of these systems.
The combination of Auto-LSD and VSC gives the two-wheel drive Tundra models even better traction in more situations than expected from the typical 4x2 pickup truck. For more demanding conditions, Tundra's 4x4 configurations offer a part-time, electronically-controlled four-wheel drive system featuring a six-pinion planetary reduction gearset to provide 4x2, 4x4 Hi and 4x4 Lo ranges. The driver selects the drive mode using a dial on the dash.
The rear differential in V6 and i-Force 4.7-liter V8 Tundra models features a 9.5-inch ring gear, and the i-Force 5.7-liter models step up to a 10.5-inch ring gear - one of the largest in the segment.
Comprehensive Towing Package
An available Tow Package on all Tundra i-Force V8 models increases towing capacity significantly, up to 10,800 pounds, depending on the model and drivetrain (see specifications sheet). A one-piece towing receiver is integrated into the frame prior to bed installation. The structure runs nearly two feet down the length of the frame and attaches to each side around the rear spring shackles' cross-member with 12 bolts. Tow Package rear springs help provide level full-load rear suspension height and maintain full range of suspension travel. The Tundra can remain level even with 1,000 lbs. of tongue weight or payload.
The Tow Package also upgrades Tundra's cooling and electrical systems with a supplemental water-to-oil engine oil cooler to help handle the demands of towing under a full load. A power steering fluid cooler is added, as well. Electrical upgrades include an under-dash connector prewire for a third-party trailer brake controller, both seven- and a four-pin trailer brake connectors near the hitch, and an up-rated alternator. The final touch is a set of optional telescoping towing mirrors (available on 5.7-liter V8 models only).
The six-speed automatic transmission in the 5.7-liter Tundra, gains a TOW/HAUL shift mode, selectable by a dedicated switch. The TOW/HAUL shift mode applies specific logic for adjusting the throttle sensitivity and transmission upshift and downshift control, favoring and holding lower gears when accelerating or decelerating to help enhance control and safety.
Safety
All Tundra models feature the Toyota STAR SAFETY SYSTEM(TM) as standard equipment, giving Tundra one of the most comprehensive arrays of safety technology in the full-size pickup truck category. The system includes ABS, EBD, BA, VSC and TRAC. Tundra was the first full-size pickup to feature standard front seat side and roll-sensing side curtain airbags in all models. Three-point seatbelts and adjustable headrests for all seating positions were likewise firsts in the segment. The front seatbelts include pretensioners and force limiters.
Comfort and Convenience
Tundra Regular Cab comes standard in Tundra grade and can be upgraded to SR5 with an option package; the Double Cab and CrewMax models are available in Tundra grade in addition to the SR5 and Limited trim levels. Tundra offers high levels of user technology, including available Bluetooth(R) cell phone compatibility, high-end JBL audio and an optional navigation system with integrated wide-screen rear backup camera.
All Tundra-grade and SR5 models come standard with a versatile dual-zone manual climate control system including a seven-speed blower, sync-mode and a replaceable dust and pollen filter. Limited grade models feature a dual-zone automatic climate control system. The four-spoke steering wheel features standard audio controls in Limited grade. These are available on Double Cab models equipped with either the optional JBL audio system or optional navigation system.
The Tundra offers richly textured fabrics and deep-grain leathers available in four colors. A manual tilt and telescoping steering wheel was a first in the segment, and Tundra Limited models offer an available power tilt and telescoping steering wheel. Standard High Solar Energy Absorbing (HSEA) glass helps filter solar heat and most UV (skin-sensitive) light energy entering the vehicle. This reduces occupants' sun exposure, helps to keep the interior cooler and enhances durability of interior materials. Limited grade models receive standard IR-cut glass, further reducing solar levels from infrared rays.
Other notable features that distinguish the Limited grade models include: chrome, power-retractable, heated auto-dimming side-view mirrors; leather-trimmed, heated power-adjustable front bucket seats (10-way for driver, 4-way for passenger); and rear door privacy glass.
Features inspired by luxury sedans include Optitron gauges and a multi-information center includes selectable readouts for the clock, outside temperature, and fuel economy. A user-customizable interface allows the Tundra owner to set keyless entry feedback; door unlock mode (one press/two press); automatic door locking programming; headlight auto-off timer; and the interior light timer. The Tundra Limited grade Double Cab and Crew Max models add front and rear parking sonar, cold kit, and mudguards to the standard equipment list.
Options
Tundra-grade models come with a standard AM/FM/CD stereo with six speakers (four speakers on Regular Cab models) and an audio input jack; SR5 models add a six-disc in-dash CD changer and offer an available JBL AM/FM audio system with six-disc in-dash CD changer, 440-watt 5.1 channel surround sound, 10 speakers (12 in CrewMax), Bluetooth(R) compatibility, and steering wheel audio controls. All Tundra audio systems include MP3/WMA playback capability.
CrewMax models offer an optional Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) system that combines a nine-inch wide-screen LCD monitor, DVD player, two sets of wireless headphones and remote control. An available DVD navigation system includes a JBL audio system and integrates a rear backup camera. The camera automatically projects an image of what its lens can detect behind the vehicle onto the navigation system's LCD screen when reverse gear is engaged. This feature is particularly useful when backing up the Tundra to a trailer, or for positioning a boat trailer on a launch ramp.
The Limited grade offers an optional power memory package for the seats, mirrors and tilt/telescopic steering wheel. A multifunction auto-dimming rear view mirror, standard on Limited grade models and optional for others, integrates a digital compass and HomeLink(R) transceiver. CrewMax models offer an optional power tilt/sliding moonroof with an automatic variable-position wind deflector.
Exterior Design
Tundra offers three cab styles: Regular Cab, four-door Double Cab, and the super-sized four-door CrewMax with the segment's leading rear-seat legroom. From the side, the Tundra's distinct "barbell" form with pronounced wheel arches conveys the truck's inherent strength. Character lines and fender flares add dimension and strength.
The Tundra grade, SR5 and Limited models stand apart with a bold chrome grille surround.
Tundra Regular Cab and Double Cab models are offered in standard bed (78.7-inch) or long bed (97.6-inch) configurations while the CrewMax comes with a 66.7-inch bed. All models have a 22.2-inch deep bed. The Tundra's lockable all-steel tailgate, with tailgate assist, eases down slowly with no slam - and can easily be removed.
A standard cargo lamp provides generous illumination at night. A Deck Rail System, standard on Limited grade models and available on all others, adds to cargo - more -
2009 Toyota Tundra 7-7-7-7
bed versatility. Featuring four adjustable tie-down cleats connected to the rails of the all-steel bed, the rail system can be used to secure many types of loads, with a 220-lb. rating per attachment.
The array of Genuine Toyota Accessories available for the Tundra includes a number of cargo bed enhancements, including a tonneau cover, bed mat, bed liner, bed extender, Deck Rail accessories, storage boxes, cargo divider, tie-downs and utility hooks.
Interior Design
Tundra is designed for "true truckers," or customers who put the greatest demands on their pickups, including ranchers, foremen and construction workers. The driver is surrounded by a U-shaped "command and control" center that helps provide an unobstructed view of the road and gauges, while keeping all knobs, switches and buttons within easy reach. The Tundra features large door handles and easy-to-turn control knobs that can be operated even while wearing work gloves.
The 3.4-liter upper glove box can hold a standard Thermos(TM) bottle, with additional space available in the 9.5-liter lower glovebox. The huge center console on bucket-seat models can hold a laptop computer or hanging file folder storage - a pickup truck first. For optimal comfort, the center console armrest features a four-inch slide range. The Tundra cockpit provides two 12-volt DC power outlets, one on the dash and one in the center console. CrewMax models add a third outlet at the rear of the center console. The outlets remain live for up to two hours after the ignition is switched off.
The Tundra Regular Cab offers generous behind-the-seat storage, and the Double Cab features front-hinged doors that open to 80 degrees for easy passenger access. The Tundra Double Cab models provide a roomy rear seat with a 22-degree backrest angle and 34.7 inches of rear legroom for comfort on par with some midsize sedans.
The Tundra CrewMax provides best-in-class maximum rear legroom at 44.5 inches. CrewMax rear seat versatility is enhanced with the segment's first reclining and sliding rear seat. A 10-inch slide range allows the owner to custom-tailor passenger comfort and room for onboard cargo. CrewMax models provide additional storage under the rear seat.
On Double Cab and CrewMax models, the standard power rear windows retract completely into the doors. The Regular and Double Cab models offer an optional split sliding rear window to enhance interior ventilation, with a power vertical slide-down rear window standard on CrewMax models.
Toyota maximized space and convenience inside all Tundra cabs. A concealed compartment to the right of the shift lever can hold a Thomas(R) guidebook. The built-in toolbox behind the rear seat in all models provides clean, accessible storage for the jack, handle and lug wrench. In Double Cab and CrewMax models, the rear seat backs fold in an easy one-hand operation to provide a flat floor storage area. The front doors have large storage pockets and can also hold two 22-ounce bottles. Rear doors on Double Cab and CrewMax each hold one bottle.