Saturday, January 12, 2008

Toyota Adds 13 More Models For 2008 Tundra Lineup

Toyota has created greater value to its 2008 Tundra full-size pickup truck lineup by adding 13 new models and enhancing standard equipment levels. The 2008 Tundra now offers a choice of 44 models in three cab styles.

Since its introduction in February 2007, Tundra's share of the half-ton full-size pickup truck segment has more than doubled.

2008 Toyota Tundra with Sport Appearance Package

2008 Toyota Tundra with Sport Appearance Package

"Last year, Toyota designed the new-generation Tundra to exceed truck buyers' expectations for what a full-size pickup can be," said Jim Lentz, Toyota Motor Sales executive vice president. "The 2008 Tundra truly sets new standards for performance, safety, comfort and functionality."

The biggest change for the 2008 Tundra is the increased availability of the two most popular cab styles – Double Cab and CrewMax – with the "Tundra grade," formerly offered only in Regular Cab models, to improve Tundra's reach into the marketplace. Previously, these four-door models were available only in the intermediate SR5 and top-line Limited grades. The new Tundra grade, positioned just below the SR5, is equipped with all of the key standard features consumers expect in their truck, adding up to a great value.

Toyota is bolstering the value of the Tundra SR5 grade Double Cab and CrewMax by increasing standard equipment. For 2008, these models include the previously optional power bucket front seats, AM/FM stereo with 6-disc CD changer, cold kit, heated mirrors, and mud guards as standard at no cost.

The Tundra Limited grade Double Cab and Crew Max models add the formerly optional front and rear parking sonar, cold kit, and mudguards to the standard equipment list. Finally, the Tundra grade regular cab model features a new front-end appearance for 2008, which features a chrome bumper and matte-black grille surround.

Primarily designed, engineered and assembled in America, the formidable
2008 Tundra is available with 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrains and offers three cab styles, three wheelbases, three bed lengths, three engines, and three trim levels.

All Tundra models feature the Toyota STAR SAFETY SYSTEM™ as standard equipment, giving Tundra one of the most comprehensive arrays of standard safety technology in the full-size pickup truck category. The system includes ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC).

Toyota introduced its all-new, Tundra full-size pickup truck line for 2007, and for 2008 adds minor refinements to these powerful, hard-working trucks. Tundra offers three cab styles: Regular Cab, four-door Double Cab, and the super-sized four-door CrewMax with the segment's leading rear-seat legroom.

For 2008, the Regular Cab fog lamps are optional on the SR5 grade. The top-line Limited grade gains an optional power memory package for the seats, mirrors and tilt and telescopic steering wheel.

From the side, the Tundra's distinct "barbell" form with pronounced wheel arches conveys the truck's inherent strength. Character lines and fender flares add dimension and strength as well as an unwavering stance. The Tundra grade, SR5 and Limited grade models stand apart with a bold chrome grille surround.

Tundra backs up its tough-truck styling with the performance of an available 381-horsepower 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine teamed to a six-speed automatic transmission. The 5.7-liter i-Force is one of the most powerful engines to be made available in a half-ton full-size pickup.

Tundra Regular Cab comes standard in Tundra grade and can be upgraded to SR5 with an option package; the Double Cab and CrewMax models are now available in Tundra grade in addition to the SR5 and Limited trim levels. Tundra offers high levels of user technology, including available Bluetooth® cell phone compatibility, high-end JBL audio and an optional navigation system that integrates a wide-screen rear backup camera.

Power for Big Jobs or Big Fun
In Tundra Regular and Double Cab models, a standard 4.0-liter V6 produces 236 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 266 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. The mid-grade option for these models – and standard for the CrewMax models – is Toyota's 4.7-liter i-Force V8 producing 276 horsepower at 5,400 rpm and 313 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 3,400 rpm.

Both the V6 and the i-Force 4.7-liter V8 feature DOHC 4-valve cylinder heads and Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) for responsive power across the engine's operating range. Both engines are teamed with a five-speed automatic transmission that offers greater flexibility than competitors' four-speed automatics. For added driver control, the Tundra five-speed automatic features uphill / downhill shift logic. All Tundra models feature sequential shift.

i-Force 5.7 – A Force to be Reckoned With
The Tundra's 5.7-liter i-Force V8 is available in every model configuration. Specifically engineered for full-size pickup applications, the i-Force 5.7-liter uses a long-stroke design (stroke dimension of 4.02 in. is more than the bore width of 3.70 in.). As a result, in addition to its impressive 381 horsepower at 5,600 rpm, the i-Force 5.7 produces 401 lb.-ft of peak torque at 3,600 rpm. The i-Force 5.7 V8 uses aluminum for the cylinder block and DOHC heads. A Dual Independent VVT-i system controls valve timing and overlap on both the intake and exhaust valves independently of each other, which helps optimize power and fuel efficiency while minimizing emissions.

All Tundra engines are equipped with the Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS). Butterfly valves inside intake manifold switch the length of the intake runners in two stages, based on rpm and throttle angle, to improve efficiency across the engine speed range.

Tubular stainless steel 4-2-1 exhaust headers flow into a full stainless steel exhaust system with laser-welded, high-capacity mufflers for optimal efficiency and a powerful sound. Both i-Force V8s feature a crank-hold electronic starter control that uses a "twist and release" ignition switch to prevent failed starts and "grinding" on a re-start attempt. Both Tundra V8 engines meet the Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle, or ULEV II, emissions certification.

The i-Force 5.7-liter is teamed exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission. Shift logic adapts the transmission's shift maps to driver input. Both Tundra transmissions use Toyota "WS" fluid with a flat viscosity/temperature curve (cold viscosity is close to warm viscosity). This fluid reduces friction and wear, enables faster vehicle warm-up, and never needs to be replaced. Like the five-speed, it also features a transmission fluid warmer, which quickly brings the transmission fluid up to operating temperature, in order to optimize cold-weather performance.

Chassis Built for Capability, Control and Ride Quality
There are three Tundra wheelbases: 126.8 inches for Regular Cab/standard bed models; 145.7 inches for Regular Cab/long bed, Double Cab/standard bed and CrewMax models, and a massive 164.6 inches for Double Cab/long bed models. Tundra's advanced TripleTech frame uses wide, full-boxed frame rails for the front portion, reinforced C-channel under the cab and an open C-channel underneath the bed to maximize strength, ride quality and durability.

The double A-arm front suspension uses coil-over spring shock units, and a front-mounted steering rack helps enhance steering feel and response. The rear suspension uses staggered shocks mounted outboard of the springs to improve the shocks' dampening efficiency. Spring rates have been tuned to provide a flat vehicle stance when fully loaded, and the trapezoidal shape of the rear frame section provides "toe-out" mounting points for the rear leaf springs, which provides confident towing under a full load.

The Tundra is equipped with one of the largest standard wheels in the segment – 18 x 8 inches with 255/70 R18 tires. Limited grade models step up to standard 18 x 8-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with wider 275/65 R18 tires. As an option, Limited models can be outfitted with factory-optional 20-inch alloy wheels with 275/55 R20 tires. An optional TRD (Toyota Racing Development) Off-Road Package is available and combines off-road tuned suspension featuring Bilstein gas-charged mono-tube shock absorbers; 275/65 R18 B.F. Goodrich Radial T/A off-road tires on unique 18-inch alloy wheels; fog lamps, and special graphics.

The Segment's Most Advanced Brakes
All Tundra models employ one of the segment's larger and more sophisticated standard braking system. The four-wheel disc brakes use large ventilated rotors: front rotors measure 13.9 inches in diameter and 1.26-inches thick, with four-piston calipers; rear rotors measure 13.6 x 0.71-inch and use two-piston calipers.

Anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA) are standard on all Tundra models. EBD optimizes brake pressure at each wheel for greater control under braking, especially when cornering. The Brake Assist system is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking. If the driver has not pressed firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage the ABS, the system supplements the applied braking power until pedal pressure is released.

Toyota STAR SAFETY SYSTEM™
Found on all of Toyota's SUVs and the Tundra pickup, the STAR SAFETY SYSTEM™ gives these vehicles company's most advanced traction-enhancing dynamic control. The system includes ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC).

The standard Automatic Limited-slip Differential (Auto-LSD) helps provide better acceleration in deep sand or mud and on mixed friction surfaces. Compared to a conventional mechanical limited slip differential, the Auto-LSD system is much more responsive and has much better wear characteristics. The combination of Auto-LSD and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) as standard equipment on every model is a significant "first" in the segment.

The Tundra's VSC system integrates traction control (TRAC) on all models, and enhances traction on or off-road by helping to keep the vehicle going on its intended course. VSC detects front-wheel slide and rear-wheel slide during cornering and attempts to control either condition with throttle intervention and/or by braking individual wheels. The integration of these technologies also brings with it driver-selectable versatility to tackle just about any road surface or driving condition. In "normal" mode, VSC, TRAC and Auto-LSD are all functioning to help enable traction and control capability. "TRAC Off" activates Auto-LSD, to help extricate the Tundra from extreme conditions. The "VSC Off" mode turns off all of three of these systems.

Tundra is the first full-size pickup to feature standard front seat side and roll-sensing side curtain airbags in all models. Three-point seatbelts and adjustable headrests for all seating positions are likewise firsts in the segment. The front seatbelts include pretensioners and force limiters.

4x4 Capability
The combination of Auto-LSD and VSC gives even the two-wheel drive Tundra models far better traction in more situations than could be expected from the typical 4x2 pickup truck. For more demanding conditions, Tundra's 4x4 configurations offer a part-time, electronically-controlled four-wheel drive system featuring a six-pinion planetary reduction gearset to provide 4x2, 4x4 Hi and 4x4 Lo ranges. The driver selects the drive mode using a dial on the dash.

The rear differential in V6 and i-Force 4.7-liter V8 Tundra models features a 9.5-inch ring gear, and the i-Force 5.7-liter models step up to a 10.5-inch ring gear – one of the largest in the segment. "Face hob" gear cutting for ring and pinion gears yields stronger tooth form and a greater engagement area for increased torque capacity, reduced wear and reduced gear noise.

Comprehensive Towing Package
The Tow Package, standard on all Tundra i-Force V8 models, increases towing capacity significantly, up to 10,800 pounds, depending on the model and drivetrain (see specification sheet). The Tow Package starts with a one-piece towing receiver integrated into the frame prior to bed installation. The structure runs nearly 2 feet down the length of the frame, and attaches to each side of the frame around the rear spring shackles' cross-member with 12 bolts. Tow Package rear springs help provide level full-load rear suspension height and maintain full range of suspension travel. The Tundra can stay level even with 1,000 lbs. of tongue weight or payload.

The Tow Package also upgrades Tundra's cooling and electrical systems, with a supplemental water-to-oil engine oil cooler to handle the demands of towing under a full-load. A power steering fluid cooler is added below the radiator. Electrical upgrades include an under-dash connector prewire for a third-party trailer brake controller, both a seven-pin and a four-pin trailer brake connectors near the hitch, and an up-rated alternator.

The final touch is a set of optional telescoping towing mirrors (available on 5.7-liter V8 models only). The six-speed automatic transmission in the V8, 5.7-liter Tundra, gains a TOW/HAUL shift mode, selectable by a dedicated switch. The TOW/HAUL shift mode applies specific logic for adjusting the throttle sensitivity and for transmission upshift and downshift control, favoring and holding lower gears when accelerating or decelerating to help enhance driver control and safety.

Three Bed Sizes
Tundra Regular Cab and Double Cab models are offered in standard bed (78.7-inch) or long bed (97.6-inch) configurations; the CrewMax comes with a short bed (66.7-inch). In all models, the bed measures 22.2 inches deep. The Tundra's lockable all-steel tailgate, with tailgate assist, can be effortlessly opened and closed with just two fingers – and it can easily be removed.

A standard cargo lamp provides generous illumination at night. A Deck Rail System, standard on Limited grade models and available on all others, adds to cargo bed versatility. Featuring four adjustable tie-down cleats connected to the rails of the all-steel bed, the rail system can be used to secure many types of loads, with a 220-lb-rating per attachment.

The roster of Genuine Toyota Accessories available for the Tundra includes a number of cargo bed enhancements, including a tonneau cover, bed mat, bed liner, bed extender, Deck Rail accessories, storage boxes, cargo divider, tie-downs and utility hooks.

Front Office "Command and Control"
Toyota designed the next-generation Tundra's interior for "true truckers," customers who put the greatest demands on their pickups, including ranchers, foremen and construction workers.

The driver is surrounded by a U-shaped "command and control" center that helps provide an unobstructed view of the road and gauges, while keeping all knobs, switches and buttons within easy reach. Dash and door panel forms emphasize function yet are far from austere. Because many true truckers wear protective clothing as part of their jobs, the Tundra features large door handles and easy-to-turn control knobs that can be operated even while wearing work gloves.

Owners who spend a lot of time on the job site often use their trucks as mobile offices, so Toyota gave Tundra increased storage capacity for this usage. The 3.4-liter upper glove box can hold a standard Thermos™ bottle, with additional space available in the 9.5-liter lower glovebox.

The huge center console on bucket-seat models can hold a laptop computer or hanging file folder storage – a pickup truck first. For optimal comfort, the center console armrest features a four-inch slide range. The Tundra cockpit provides two 12v DC power outlets, one on the dash and one in the center console. CrewMax models add a third outlet at the rear of the center console. The outlets remain live for up to two hours after the ignition is switched off.

Room, Comfort and Storage for the Whole Crew
The Tundra Regular Cab offers more behind-the-seat storage than other pickups, and the Double Cab features front-hinged doors that open to 80 degrees for easy passenger access. The Tundra Double Cab models provide a roomy rear seat with a 22-degree backrest angle and 34.7 inches of rear legroom for comfort on par with some midsize sedans.

The Tundra CrewMax provides best-in-class maximum rear legroom at 44.5 inches. CrewMax rear seat versatility is enhanced with the segment's first reclining and sliding rear seat. A 10-inch slide range allows the owner to custom-tailor passenger comfort and room for onboard cargo. CrewMax models provide additional storage under the rear seat.

On Double Cab and CrewMax models, the standard power rear windows retract completely into the doors. The Regular and Double Cab models offer an optional split sliding rear window to enhance interior ventilation, with a power vertical slide-down rear window standard on CrewMax models. The Tundra offers richly textured fabrics and deep-grain leathers available in four colors. As another nod to refinement, CrewMax models offer an optional power tilt/sliding moonroof with an automatic variable-position wind deflector.

Toyota maximized space and added convenience within all Tundra cabs. A concealed compartment to the right of the shift lever can hold a Thomas® guidebook. The built-in toolbox behind the rear seat in all models provides clean, accessible storage for the jack, handle and lug wrench.

In Double Cab and CrewMax models, the rear seat backs fold in an easy one-hand operation to provide a flat floor storage area. The front doors feature large storage pockets and can also hold two 22-ounce bottles. Rear doors on Double Cab and CrewMax each hold one bottle.

Interior Leaves the Job Site Behind
All Tundra-grade and SR5 grade models come standard with a versatile dual-zone manual climate control system with a seven-speed blower, sync-mode and a replaceable dust and pollen filter. Limited grade models feature an automatic dual-zone automatic climate control system.

The four-spoke steering wheel features standard audio controls in Limited grade and are available on Double Cab models equipped with either the optional JBL audio system or optional navigation system.

The available manual tilt and telescoping steering wheel is a first in the segment, as is the available power tilt and telescoping steering wheel found on Limited models. Showing Toyota's attention to detail, the rolling-ball telescoping steering shaft improves wheel-tilt feel compared to splined-sliding types.

Standard High Solar Energy Absorbing (HSEA) glass helps filter solar heat and most UV (skin-sensitive) light energy entering the vehicle, reducing occupants' sun exposure, helping to keep the interior cooler and enhancing durability of interior materials. Limited grade models receive standard IR-cut glass, further reducing solar levels from infrared rays.

Tundra Limited models give up none of the work ethic and add more refinement than ever seen on a Toyota pickup. A few more notable features that distinguish the Limited grade models include: chrome, power-retractable, heated auto-dimming side-view mirrors; leather-trimmed, heated power-adjustable front bucket seats (10-way for driver, 4-way for passenger); and rear door privacy glass.

Features borrowed from luxury sedans include Optitron meters and a multi-information center featuring selectable readouts for the clock, outside temperature, and fuel economy. A user-customizable interface allows the Tundra owner to set keyless entry feedback; door unlock mode (one press/two press); automatic door locking programming; headlight auto-off timer, and the interior light timer.

Options to Entertain and Inform
Tundra-grade models come with a standard AM/FM/CD stereo with six speakers (four speakers on Regular Cab models) and an audio input jack; SR5 models add a six-disc in-dash CD changer, and offer an available JBL AM/FM audio system with six-disc in-dash CD changer, 440-watt 5.1 channel surround sound, 10 speakers (12 in CrewMax), Bluetooth® compatibility, and steering wheel audio controls. This system (with 10 speakers) is standard on the Tundra grade. All Tundra audio systems can play MP3/WMA formatted CDs.

CrewMax models offer an optional Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) system that combines a nine-inch wide-screen LCD monitor, DVD player, two sets of wireless headphones and a remote control. An available DVD navigation system includes a JBL audio system and integrates a rear backup camera. The camera automatically projects an image of what its lens can detect behind the vehicle onto the navigation system's LCD screen when reverse gear is engaged, useful when backing up the Tundra to a trailer, or for positioning a boat trailer on a launch ramp. A multifunction rear view mirror, standard on Limited grade models and optional for others, combines an electrochromic auto-dimming mirror with a digital compass and HomeLink® transceiver.

Backed by Toyota
Toyota's 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle limited warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60 months/60,000 miles and corrosion perforation for 60 months with no mileage limitation.

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