2016 Toyota Tundra 1794 CrewMax 4x4: The Texas-Sized Luxury Truck

Highlight: This truck is being assembled in Texas.

Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $50,840 (Base Model CrewMax $50,180)   

Seating Capacity: 5

Standard Safety Features: ABS; air bags; LED daytime running lights; an auto dimming rear view mirror; fog light; a rear camera; rear audible parking sensors; a blind spot monitor with rear cross traffic alert system; a vehicle stability control system; a traction control system; ABS; electric brake force distribution; and a tire pressure monitoring system

Standard Equipment:  20-inch alloy wheels; 6-speed automatic transmission; a 6-inch infotainment screen; power front seats; leather seats; dual zone automatic climate control system; front and rear mudguards; front tow hooks; power moonroof; and power vertical sliding rear windows


Optional Features On Test Vehicle: Running Boards and and 20-inch chrome wheels

Standard Audio On Test Vehicle:  a JBL 12-speaker AM/FM/HD with satellite radio

Bluetooth Connectivity:  Yes

iPod connectivity/USB Port: Yes
                                                                                                        
Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 5.7-liter, 8-cylinder/381-hp

Recommended Fuel: Regular

Standard Fuel Mileage:
13-city/17-hwy

Towing Capacity: 9,100 lbs to 10,500 lbs

Other Trims:

Tundra Crew Max 4x2
Tundra Double Cab 4x2
Tundra Double Cab 4x4
Tundra Regular Cab 4x2
Tundra Regular Cab 4x4

Why: With the exception of a few tweaks to the front end styling, the Entune audio system and a few content adjustments, the Tundra is essentially a carryover for the model year. Moreover, a fuel flex system is available in select markets with vehicles equipped with the 5.7-liter engine.

Pros: Toyota’s gigantic top of the line full size truck is big in every sense of the word. The 1794 Texas named truck, which is only available as CrewCab, that we reviewed was outfitted with every conceivable feature that both the designers and engineers from the foreign automaker could think of. From the Texas hide-like leather seats to the much needed electronic blind spot mirrors to the rear view camera with audible sensors to the power sliding rear window. Our 1794 was loaded to the hilt.

Toyota has added an off-road TRD 1794 model for the 2016 model year. This vehicle distinguishes itself from the traditional Tundra by what the automaker describes as an old school grille, aluminum skid plates, black headlight bezels, 18-inch black alloy wheels and a throatier engine growl. And once in the vehicle, one can find black leather seats which is surrounded by red stitching.  The TRD package only adds $100 to the price.

Toyota has made great strides with the current generation Tundra to make sure it’s on par with the Big 3, which still dominates this segment. The Tundra is available in several cab configurations, with either a 4x2 or 4x4 system.  The Tundra is also available with three 8-cylinder choices. And a towing capacity this is in line with the segment.

But: This is one of the largest 1500-series trucks out in the market place, which equates to more vehicle to maneuver on the road. Also, with all of the  luxury touches on Toyota’s top of the line 1794 truck, the vehicle lacked a locking tailgate and a cargo management system for the bed.

Furthermore, Tundra hasn’t stepped into the diesel game, as of yet, like many of its segment cohorts. This could be the next measure in helping the gigantic Tundra in improving its fuel economy. Tundra should also consider developing a fuel sipping 6-cylinder engine like its cohorts, too! Lastly the top of the line 1794 model is only available in the Texas-size CrewCab model.

Verdict: The gigantic 1794, with its standard Crew Cab, is built to conquer the world. The well-built truck is on par with the Detroit 3 – GM, Ford and Ram - offering all of the features one can expect to make this a luxury work truck in addition to the ability to tow and carry loads of cargo.  And because of the massive size, this big rig is literally the king of the road.

Competition: Chevy Silverado 1500 Crew Cab 3LZ; Ford F-150 SuperCrew Limited; and GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab SLT