Up Close with the 2019 Toyota Tundra TRD Sport
The Toyota Tundra hasn’t been updated as recently as other full-size trucks. Does it still have what it takes to compete?
Chevrolet, Ford, and Ram are all selling recently updated or all-new half-ton trucks, but not Toyota. The Tundra hasn’t changed much since 2014, which begs the question of whether it’s still competitive. Autobytel spent some time with the 2019 Toyota Tundra TRD Sport 5.7L V-8 4×4 CrewMax to see if it has what it takes to keep up with the other guys.
The TRD Sport gets upgrades to give it a more off-road oriented style along with unique badges and the requisite aggressive grille. It also gets functional elements including a TRD exclusive hood scoop, Bilstein-tuned dampers, and TRD sway bars. It does look the part of capable off-road truck.
Where things fall behind is when you open the hood. Power comes from a 5.7-liter V8 with 391 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. That’s less power than the V8s in other trucks and it also gets lower fuel economy with an EPA-estimated combined fuel economy of only 14 mpg. Finally, there’s a 6-speed automatic when competitors have 8-speed or 10-speed transmissions. Ouch.
Inside, there are lots of big, beefy controls and a huge center console storage bin, but it’s not fancy. Take a seat in the all-new Ram 1500 and the Tundra really shows its age. On the plus side, the rear seats are plenty roomy.
The Tundra is still a solid truck, but the competition is fierce and it’s showing up this aging design. Check out the video for all the details on the 2019 Toyota Tundra TRD Sport 5.7L V-8 4×4 CrewMax.