Big changes are coming next year in the case of Toyota’s full-size pickup truck, which is about to come completely redesigned. Despite we are still quite away from the launch, we already know many details about the new model and new ones are constantly coming. One of the latest updates we’ve received refers to the powertrain department. The Japanese manufacturer has trademarked the “I-Force Max” name. Without any doubt, the 2022 Toyota Tundra I-Force Max will be an important part of the upcoming overhaul. However, things are still a little bit unclear in the case of this nameplate.
On one side, some sources suggest this might be a name for the new hybrid system, which is definitely coming. On the other side, many of us believe that the new gasoline engine is on the way. So, all we can do at the moment is to speculate, while more precise info should come soon.
2022 Toyota Tundra I-Force Max As Hybrid
As we’ve just mentioned, many believe that the new powertrain nameplate will be used for the upcoming hybrid version. This powertrain isn’t a mystery at all. Various insiders suggest it will be based on a six-cylinder engine, with a setup similar to the one that powers Lexus LS 500h. Still, we are about to see a significant power boost for the new truck. While the luxury sedan is good for 354 horsepower, the 2022 Toyota Tundra I-Force Max will be significantly more powerful. The exact numbers are still unavailable. Still, most sources suggest a max output of around 450 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque, roughly.
With such numbers, the 2022 Toyota Tundra I-Force Max would be more than capable enough to compete with other trucks in the segment in every aspect. It will be capable, efficient and most importantly, extremely reliable.
2022 Toyota Tundra I-Force Max Sounds Like Pure Gasoline
The history of the I-Force engine begins in the early 2000s when the Japanese manufacturer introduced the original Tundra. The new truck came in order to compete with the American Big 3 and for that occasion, it needed a powerful V8 engine. The all-new unit was designed and launches as the “I-Force”. The first version of the engine features 4.7 liters in displacement and during these two decades of production, we have seen a couple of updates and upgrades. The current version of the engine powers several Toyota and Lexus models, including the current Tundra and delivers around 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque.
When it comes to the 2022 Toyota Tundra I-Force Max, there is a chance to see a completely new engine, though we won’t exclude the possibility to see a new version of the current engine either. In any case, this “Max” in the engine’s name clearly indicates that performances will be maximized in this case, both in terms of power and efficiency.
Some power boost will definitely come, but we are pretty sure that Toyota engineers will put more focus on fuel economy and overall efficiency. Simply, the biggest drawback of the current Tundra is fuel economy, which is the lowest in the class. The current model returns around 13 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the highway and that’s way too low for modern industry standards.
More details about the new engine should come soon.
Toyota Tundra Redesign Expectations
As we already mentioned, the new engine will definitely play an important part in the upcoming overhaul but won’t be the only novelty to come. At this point, we already know several novelties that will be presented in the new model. Of course, one of the first things that come to mind is a new platform. Expect body-on-frame version of the company’s new TNGA platform, named TNGA-F. The all-new design should provide significant improvements in all aspects, starting with much better capabilities and significantly improved ride quality. One of the highlights will definitely be a new suspension design. The testing model is hiding the rear axle, which indicates something big is on the way. Does this mean air suspension? It’s hard to say at the moment.
Of course, there is much more to come and one of the things that come to mind is a new styling. There is no doubt that new aesthetics will significantly improve the visual appeal of the pickup truck. Still, we are pretty sure Toyota won’t do any kind of experiment. We expect it will stick to classic design solutions, so the new styling would be just an evolution of the current styling. Interestingly, some rendering photos have appeared and they suggest a front end similar to Toyota’s latest crossovers, such as RAV4.
Big changes will come on the inside as well. We have no doubt that the current, outdated dashboard will be replaced with a completely new layout. Count on modern technologies and attractive aesthetical solutions. In terms of cabin dimensions, we don’t expect significant changes.