The current generation of the full-size pickup truck has been around for a too long time, so it’s no wonder that truckers from all around the States are eagerly waiting to see some novelties. According to the latest reports, the new model will hit the market pretty soon, maybe already as the 2021 Toyota Tundra. The new generation is in the advanced stage of development and we already know some of the details that will characterize the new model.
The 2021 Toyota Tundra redesign is about to bring a lot of novelties, which isn’t a surprise, considering that the current generation has been around for almost 13 years. Meanwhile, many rivals have been updated several times, so it’s not hard to presume that the current Tundra seems a little bit outdated. Fortunately, the new model is on the way and it is about to bring changes in various aspects. We are about to see a completely new design, based on a new platform and new powertrain. Count on improvements in terms of performances, ride quality and particularly in terms of fuel economy.
2021 Toyota Tundra Redesign and Platform
Of course, the first thing that comes to mind with every redesign is the platform. In this case, we are about to see a completely new architecture, codenamed F1. This will be a modular body-on-frame platform. Therefore, it will be used not only for Tundra’s SUV siblings like Sequoia or Land Cruiser but also for smaller vehicles, such as next-generation Tacoma, 4Runner etc.
The new platform will bring many improvements. Some of the first things that come to mind is that the new platform should be fully framed, which promises improvements in terms of towing capacity. Also, we count on significant weight savings, as well as improved driving characteristics.
Among the many confirmed and expected novelties, there is one thing that really draws a lot of attention. It’s about rear suspension, which is about to come completely new for this occasion. According to most reports, the company will keep a solid axle, but we are about to see some air components.
2021 Toyota Tundra Powertrain
Huge novelties are expected under the hood. Of course, most reports are about the 2021 Toyota Tundra Hybrid. Although we are still waiting for the official confirmation, it seems pretty certain that the new model will feature a hybrid powertrain. Most likely, that will be a modified version of the twin-turbo V6-based system that can be found under the hood of Lexus LS 500h. Allegedly, the total output should go around 450 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. Along with the new chassis, this amount of power and torque should provide max towing capacity between 12.500 and 13.000 pounds. More importantly, this powertrain will provide significant improvement in terms of fuel economy. Moreover, we count on class-leading ratings.
What About V8 Engine?
The new hybrid version will probably be quite expensive, so we have no doubt that pure gasoline versions will remain in the offer as well. At this point, we can’t some anything more specific, but we presume that the current 5.7-liter V8 will carry on, though with significant modifications. We don’t expect some spectacular power boost, considering that the current engine is already quite powerful, but we count on significant improvements in terms of fuel economy, as the current model is extremely thirsty.
Styling and Interior Design
Of course, the 2021 Toyota Tundra redesign will bring new styling as well. At this point, the new model is completely camouflaged, so we can’t say anything about aesthetics. Moreover, it looks like the company still uses the sheet metal of the current model on this mule. On the other side, some rendering photos that suggest how the new model could like. On these images, you can clearly see a lot of influence from the crossover lineup, particularly from the new RAV4. In any case, we count on a conventional approach from Toyota designers and on the absence of any radical change.
When it comes to interior design, the current model definitely looks outdated, in aspects of aesthetics, quality and tech features. Obviously, we expect a lot from the 2021 Toyota Tundra interior. While the overall dimensions are expected to remain the same, we expect to see a completely new dashboard design, which more attractive design and significantly higher overall quality. Naturally, loads of new tech features are expected as well.
Finally, we have no doubt that the 2021 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro will come as well. The high-performance off-roader, which is characterized by significant suspension and chassis upgrades, should come with more power as well, according to the latest reports, in order to compete with the F-150 Raptor.
2021 Toyota Tundra Release Date
When it comes to the 2021 Toyota Tundra release date, some reports suggest it may be scheduled already in late 2020. Other reports claim that the launch has been delayed and that the new model won’t hit the market before the second half of next year, as the 2022 model. More details about the launch should be known soon.