Toyota Tundra’s tough truck reputation includes two hallmark achievements: towing the $196 billion Space Shuttle Endeavour, and an owner accumulating one million-plus driving miles. Those feats occurred with the second-generation Tundra, which debuted in 2007. While the vehicle has undergone revisions, the 2019 model (still second-generation) remains a formable full-size pick-up truck. A week-long test drive that included ice, snow, and high-winds on rolling hills, city streets, and highways showed the Tundra can handle inclement weather. Tundra’s independent double wishbone front /live axle multi-leaf rear suspension supports a very capable and highly comfortable cruiser.

A 5.7-liter V8 (producing 381 hp at 5600 rpm and 401 lb-ft of torque at 3600 rpm) powered the test driven Tundra. The 5.7-L V8 has an up to 10,200-lb towing capacity and a 1730-lb maximum payload. Tundra also offers a 4.6-liter V8 (releasing 310 hp at 5600 rpm and 327 lb-ft of torque at 3400 rpm). Engines mate to a 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. The 2014 model year was the last Tundra line-up to offer a non-V8 engine, a 4.0-liter V6 producing 270 hp and 278 lb-ft torque. Tundra’s TRD Pro package returns in 2019 with new Fox shocks and other upgrades. The tested 164.6-inch wheelbase Toyota Tundra 4x4 SR5 Double Cab with 6.5-foot standard bed carries a MSRP base price of $37,540 and collects estimated mpg of 13 city/17 highway.