AUTOTest - 2015 Toyota Tundra

TRD Pro is Built for Off-Road Enthusiasts

By Steve & Tami Laser, Autos & Parts Contributing Editors

Toyota’s new Tundra TRD Pro is the most-advanced yet in a long line of TRD packages for Toyota trucks that goes all the way back to 1998 when the first Off-Road package was introduced for the midsize Tacoma. TRD, short for Toyota Racing Development, has been an in-house engine and chassis developer for Toyota’s racing activities across the globe for nearly four decades. We borrowed a Tundra TRD Pro from Toyota and put it through its paces during a week-long test drive.

While we didn’t have a chance for extreme offroading, it passed our tests with flying colors in terms of its sophisticated V8 powertrain, solid performance, refinement throughout, safety features and built-in cargo hauling and towing capabilities. We also liked the rumbly sound generated by the performance exhaust. The Tundra TRD Pro is fitted with TRD Bilstein shocks with remote reservoirs, TRD-tuned front springs, front skid plate, a unique front grille with a huge “TOYOTA” badge, TRD floor mats, shift knob and wheels.

The model adds TRD-tuned springs with two-inch lift for the front, decreased spring rate to improve ride quality over harsh terrain, 18-inch alloy wheels with Michelin 275/65-R18 ORP tires, TRD dual exhaust, TRD PRO quarter panel bed stamping, unique interior seat color with red stitching and an instrument panel insert.

Our tester was the Tundra TRD Pro CrewMax that sports four full-size doors and a 5.5-foot bed length. Those who want a longer bed with a little less space for the second row can opt for the Double Cab and its 6.5-foot bed. An 8.1-foot bed is available on other Tundra models. Our tester was equipped with the larger of Tundra’s two available V8 engines. The 5.7-liter I-FORCE V8 has an aluminum block with 32-valves and kicks out 381-horsepower and 401 ft-lbs of torque. It’s teamed with a 6-speed automatic transmission with Sequential Shift. The standard 4WDemand parttime system includes an electronically controlled two-speed transfer case. Our truck included a Tow Package with a 4.30 rear axle ratio, hitch receiver integrated into the frame, an engine and transmission oil cooler, Tow/Haul Mode switch, heavy-duty battery and 170-amp alternator, 4 and 7-pin connector and Trailer Sway Control.

Toyota says maximum towing capacity is 9,800 pounds. Inside the cab, the Tundra TRD Pro Crewmax is a comfortable place to conduct business for the driver and four passengers. Front seats are comfortable, supportive and good-looking trimmed with special TRD Pro fabric. The 60/40-split rear seats are covered with matching fabric and fold up and out-of-the-way so big and tall cargo can be transported securely inside the cab. Toyota’s Entune Premium Audio with navigation is standard on the TRD Pro including the Entune App Suite. Using a paired compatible smartphone, the driver can access apps through the truck’s touchscreen including Bing™, iHeartRadio, MovieTickets.com, Open Table®, Pandora®, Yelp and Facebook Places, and real-time info including traffic, weather, sports, and stocks. Lots of other goodies are standard on the Tundra TRD Pro including an easy lower tailgate, cargo bed deck rail system with four adjustable tie-down cleats, rear backup camera, manual headlight level control, remote keyless entry and alarm with engine immobilizer.

With a base price of $43,900 our tester with options and delivery checked in with a bottom line of $45,045. If that exceeds your budget, keep in mind that regular Tundra prices start at $28,510 for the base 4x2 Double Cab SR5 with a 4.6-liter V8 engine. The Tundra TRD Pro is designed for those seeking a custom look and improved off-road credentials. Toyota and its TRD Division have done all the heavy lifting so all you need to do is hop in and enjoy it.

Tundra TRD Pro Crewmax

Base Price: $43,900

As Tested: $45,045

Engine: 5.7-liter DOHC V8

Horsepower: 381 @ 5,600 rpm

Torque: 401 @ 3,600 rpm

Transmission: 6-speed automatic

Braking System: Disc/disc, ABS

Wheelbase: 145.7 in.

Tires: 275/65R-18

Est. Fuel Economy: 13 city/17 hwy

Final words:

CUSTOM LOOK AND IMPROVED OFF-ROAD CREDENTIALS