2012 Toyota Tundra Provides Outstanding Value and Dependability in the Full-Size Pickup Segment
09/30/2011
Toyota
The Toyota Tundra full-size pickup truck, recognized for its value and dependability, offers simplified option package selections for 2012, as well as detailed enhancements throughout the lineup. The Limited grade and available TRD Rock Warrior package both include a standard back-up camera for 2012.
The hard-working, hard-playing Tundra has been recognized for its outstanding value and dependability. IntelliChoice named the Tundra a "2011 Best Overall Value" in the full-size pickup segment, and Tundra was named "Most Dependable Large Pickup", for the sixth year in a row in the 2011 J.D. Power & Associates Vehicle Dependability Study.
The Tundra offers three engine choices, a 270-horsepower 4.0-liter V6, a 310-horsepower 4.6-liter V8 and the 5.7-liter V8 with 381 horsepower. For 2012, all Tundras have standard heavy-duty battery, heavy-duty starter, windshield wiper de-icer, daytime running lights (DRL), front and rear mudguards, and heated, power, outside mirrors. All Tundra grade models feature standard styled steel wheels for 2012. The Tundra DoubleCab and CrewMax models offer an optional Chrome Package that includes chromed exhaust top, side mirrors, door handles and chrome-clad 18-inch steel wheels.
The 2012 Tundra is offered in two grades (Tundra and Limited), three cab styles (Regular, Double Cab and Crew Max), three wheelbase lengths (126.8, 145.7 and 164.6 inches, depending on model and configuration) and three bed lengths (78.7, 97.6 and for CrewMax only, 66.7-inches).
By combining popular equipment, Tundra's option packages were simplified to make it easier for customers to find the right Tundra with the equipment they desire. Tundra grade Double Cab and CrewMax models now offer four streamlined packages: Convenience Package, Convenience Package with Bucket Seats, Upgrade Package and SR5 Package. Regular Cab offers four redesigned packages: SR5 Package, SR5 Upgrade Package, TRD Off-Road Package, and Color-Keyed Bumper Package.
A Tundra Work Truck Package is aimed at commercial truck buyers or customers who need a tough, no-frills truck with exceptional cargo and towing capacity. The package features heavy-duty vinyl-trimmed seating surfaces, and heavy-duty all-weather flooring; it is available in Regular and Double Cab configurations with any of the Tundra's three engine choices. At the opposite end of the spectrum, the Platinum Package available for the Tundra CrewMax Limited model offers numerous luxury features, such as heated and ventilated front bucket seats with embroidered headrests, perforated leather-trimmed seating surfaces, power tilt/slide moonroof with sliding sunshade, and wood-grain-style interior trim.
Performance
The 4.0-liter Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) V6 engine with Dual Independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) standard in Tundra Regular and Double Cab models produces 270 horsepower and 278 lb.-ft. peak torque. It is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission with uphill/downhill shift logic.
The available 4.6-liter DOHC i-Force V8 offers 310 horsepower and 327 lb.-ft. of peak torque, and the 5.7-liter DOHC i-Force V8 produces 381 horsepower and 401 lb.-ft. of peak torque. All Tundra engines feature an aluminum cylinder block and DOHC heads, along with Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) for a broad torque curve and optimized efficiency.
The Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS) in all the engines uses butterfly valves inside the intake manifold that switch the length of the intake runners in two stages, based on engine RPM and throttle angle, to optimize efficiency across the engine speed range.
Both i-Force V8 engines are teamed with a six-speed automatic transmission. A warming unit quickly brings the transmission fluid up to operating temperature to optimize cold-weather performance. Both V8 engines meet Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV II) emissions certification requirements.
Capability, Handling and Ride
Tundra's advanced TripleTech frame uses wide, full-boxed rails for the front portion, a 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 Tundra is equipped with standard 18-inch styled steel wheels with P255/70 R18 tires. Limited grade models get standard 18-inch five-spoke aluminum alloy wheels with wider P275/65 R18 tires and optional 20-inch five-spoke alloy wheels with P275/55 R20 tires. An optional TRD Off-Road Package combines off-road tuned suspension featuring Bilstein gas-charged mono-tube shock absorbers, P275/65 R18 BFGoodrich(R) off-road tires on 18-inch alloy wheels, plus fog lamps, fuel tank skid plates and TRD Off-Road graphics.
The available TRD Rock Warrior Special Edition package combines a tough off-road look with rugged off-road capability. Available only as a 4x4, the truck includes Bilstein(R) shock absorbers and 17-inch TRD Rock Warrior forged alloy wheels with LT285/70 R17 BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO tires.
The package is available in Black, Radiant Red, Magnetic Gray Metallic or Super White exterior colors with color-keyed front bumper and grille surround with matte black rear bumper. The Rock Warrior Tundra is also equipped with fog lamps, privacy glass and front bucket seats with eight-way adjustable driver's seat, four-way adjustable front passenger seat and black fabric-trimmed seating surfaces.
New for 2012, the package adds an auto-dimming rearview mirror with integrated backup camera display, compass, and HomeLink(R) universal transceiver.
The standard four-wheel disc brakes use large ventilated rotors - 13.9 inches and 1.26-inches thick - with four-piston calipers in front; and 13.6 x 0.71-inch with two-piston calipers in the rear. 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 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 Tundra's VSC system integrates traction control (TRAC) and enhances traction on or off-road by helping keep the vehicle on its intended course.
Integration of these technologies also provides 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" and "Auto LSD" modes activate Auto-LSD to help extricate the Tundra from extreme conditions. The "VSC Off" mode turns off all three of these systems.
Tundra 4x4 models use a part-time, electronically controlled four-wheel drive system featuring a six-pinion planetary reduction gear set to provide 4x2, 4x4 Hi and 4x4 Lo ranges. The driver selects the drive mode using a dial on the dash.
Safety
All Tundra models feature the standard Toyota Star Safety System(TM). The system includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), and Smart Stop brake override technology. Smart Stop Technology is designed to automatically reduce engine power when both brake and accelerator pedals are pressed at the same time under certain conditions, helping the driver bring the vehicle to a stop. Tundra features standard front seat-mounted side airbags, and front and rear Roll-sensing Side Curtain Airbags (RSCA) in all models, as well as three-point seatbelts and adjustable headrests for all seating positions. The front seatbelts include pretensioners and force limiters. All models are equipped with driver and front outboard passenger Advanced Airbag System, and driver and front outboard passenger knee airbags.
Comprehensive Towing Package
An available Tow Package on all V8 model helps increase towing capacity up to 10,400 pounds, depending on the model and drivetrain. 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 a full range of suspension travel.
The standalone optional Tow Package also upgrades Tundra's cooling and electrical systems. An integrated engine oil cooler helps handle the demands of towing under a full load, and a power steering fluid cooler is added, as well.
The seven-pin towing hitch connector sits above the hitch to help avoid damage during high-departure-angle driving.
Electrical upgrades include an under-dash connector pre-wire for a third-party trailer brake controller, both seven- and four-pin trailer brake connectors near the hitch, and an up-rated alternator. On 5.7-liter models, heated, power, outside tow mirrors with turn signal indicators and manual-extend feature are available.
With the Towing Package, the six-speed automatic transmission gains a TOW/HAUL shift mode, selectable by a dedicated switch. The TOW/HAUL mode applies specific logic for adjusting the throttle sensitivity and transmission shift control, favoring and holding lower gears when accelerating or decelerating to help enhance control and safety. Standard for all models, Trailer Sway Control uses the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) to help counteract handling forces applied to the truck in an effort to minimize the impact of trailer sway.
Exterior Design
Tundra offers three cab styles: two-door Regular Cab, four-door Double Cab, and the super-sized four-door CrewMax with the segment's leading rear-seat legroom. 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 beds are 22.2-in. deep. The Tundra's lockable all-steel, easy lower and lift tailgate lowers slowly with no slam and can easily be removed. On Double Cab and CrewMax models, the standard power rear windows retract completely into the doors. Regular and Double Cab models offer an optional horizontal sliding rear window. A power vertical sliding rear window is standard on CrewMax.
A standard cargo lamp illuminates the bed at night, and a Deck Rail System with four adjustable tie-down cleats is standard on Limited grade models and available on all others. 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.
Genuine Toyota Accessories available for the Tundra include a number of cargo bed enhancements: tonneau cover, bed mat, bedliner, bed extender, bed step, deck rail accessories, cargo divider, and tie-downs with utility hooks.
Interior Design
Tundra's U-shaped "command and control" center provides an unobstructed view of the road and gauges, while keeping all controls within easy reach. The large door handles and easy-to-turn control knobs 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 center console in bucket-seat models can hold a laptop computer or hanging file folder storage, which was a pickup truck first. There are 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 console; 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 rear doors that open up to 80 degrees. Double Cab models provide a roomy rear seat with a 22-degree backrest angle and 34.7 inches of rear legroom, which is on par with some midsize sedans.
The Tundra CrewMax has limo-like maximum rear legroom of 44.5 inches, plus the segments only reclining and sliding rear seat. A 10-inch slide range allows the owner to tailor both passenger comfort and room for onboard cargo. CrewMax models have additional storage under the rear seat.
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 models, the rear-seat cushions flip up with an easy one hand operation to provide additional storage area. In CrewMax models, the rear seat backs fold in an easy one-hand operation to provide a flat storage area.
In CrewMax models, the rear seat backs fold in an easy one-hand operation to provide a flat storage area. The front doors have large storage pockets and can also hold two 22-ounce bottles. Rear doors on Double Cab hold one bottle, and CrewMax holds two bottles.
Comfort and Convenience
Inside Tundra, richly textured fabrics and deep-grain leathers are available in four colors. A standard manual tilt and telescoping steering wheel was a first in the segment, and Limited grade offers an available power tilt and telescoping steering wheel. The Limited Grade's four-spoke steering wheel features standard audio controls; they're available on all Tundra grade models with the optional AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability, SiriusXM(TM) Satellite Radio (includes 90-day trial subscription to XM Select Package), auxiliary audio jack, USB port with iPod(R) connectivity, hands-free phone capability and music streaming via Bluetooth(R) audio system.
Tundra offers in-demand user technology, including available Bluetooth(R) phone compatibility, high-end JBL(R) audio and an optional DVD navigation system with integrated backup camera display.
Tundra-grade models come with a standard AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability, six speakers (four in Regular Cab), SiriusXM(R) Satellite Radio compatible (additional hardware & subscription required) and auxiliary audio jack.
Limited models come standard with a JBL AM/FM six-disc CD changer with MP3/WMA playback capability, 12 speakers including subwoofer (10 in Double Cab), SiriusXM Satellite Radio (includes 90-day trial subscription to XM Select Package), auxiliary audio jack, USB port with iPod(R) connectivity, hands-free phone capability and music streaming via Bluetooth(R) wireless technology.
All Tundra-grade models come standard with dual zone air conditioning with individual temperature settings for driver and front passenger, including a seven-speed blower and a replaceable dust and pollen filter. Limited grade models feature a dual zone automatic climate control with individual temperature settings for driver and front passenger. Limited grade Double Cab and Crew Max models add front and rear parking sonar, to the standard equipment list. An auto-dimming rearview mirror with integrated backup camera display, compass, and HomeLink(R) universal transceiver is standard on Limited grade models and optional on Tundra grade.
Standard High Solar Energy-Absorbing (HSEA) glass helps filter solar heat and most UV light energy entering the vehicle. This helps reduce occupant 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.
Other notable features that distinguish the Limited grade models include a chrome grille surround with matte silver billet-style grille insert; chrome, heated, power and auto-dimming outside mirrors with turn signal indicators, and power-folding feature; leather-trimmed and heated front bucket seats with 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat with power thigh and lumbar support and four-way power-adjustable front passenger seat with power lumbar support and rear door privacy glass.
Features inspired by luxury sedans include Optitron instrumentation with color-illuminated speedometer, tachometer, voltmeter, coolant temperature, automatic transmission fluid, fuel, and engine oil temperature gauges, and a LCD Multi-Information Display with customizable settings, odometer, trip meter, instant/average fuel economy, distance to empty, average speed, and trip timer.
Options
The Tundra grade offers an optional audio system: AM/FM CD player with MP3/WMA playback capability, SiriusXM Satellite Radio (includes 90-day trial subscription to XM Select Package), auxiliary audio jack, USB port with iPod(R) connectivity, hands-free phone capability and music streaming via Bluetooth(R) JBL audio system or navigation system.
CrewMax models offer an optional power tilt/slide moonroof with sliding sunshade.
The Limited grade offers an optional Memory Package, which includes leather-trimmed and heated, 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat with memory function and power thigh and lumbar support; chrome, heated, power and auto-dimming outside mirrors with turn signal indicators, puddle lamps, power-folding and memory features; and leather-trimmed four-spoke tilt/telescopic steering wheel with memory and audio, Bluetooth(R) hands-free phone controls.
Limited grade CrewMax models offer a rear-seat DVD entertainment system with nine-inch display, two 115V AC power outlets, remote and two wireless headphones.. The available DVD navigation system also includes an integrated backup camera display. This feature is particularly useful when backing up the Tundra to a trailer, or for positioning a boat trailer on a launch ramp.
Limited Warranty
Toyota's 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation. Toyota dealers have complete details on the limited warranty. Tundra will also come standard with Toyota Care, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.