2022 Toyota Tundra Debuts With 12,000-Pound Towing Capacity

The second-generation Toyota Tundra has finally been retired. In its place, Toyota just debuted the all-new-for-2022 third-generation model. It’s been redesigned in every aspect and features a new look and the crucial addition of coil spring rear suspension. More noteworthy is the replacement of the long-serving 5.7L iForce V-8 with the twin-turbo V-6 from the upcoming international market LC300 Land Cruiser. Together with a high-strength aluminum frame, the Tundra can tow 12,000 pounds and should be an excellent ATV or UTV tow rig.

It’s about time for a new Tundra. The second-gen debuted in 2007 and saw little change over its 14-year run. Trucks have come a long way in that time, with the Big Three exploring forced induction and electrification along the way. Toyota had to play catch-up and responded accordingly. The Tundra will be offered with two powertrain choices upon debut. The base engine is the i-Force twin-turbocharged 3.5L V-6 producing a claimed 389 hp and 479 pound-feet of torque. Stepping up to the i-Force Max adds an electric bell-housing motor, which brings those numbers to 437 and 583, respectively. Both configurations use a new 10-speed automatic transmission.

The Tundra is rated to tow 10,300 pounds in its least-capable trim and 12,000 pounds at maximum. That’s a bit behind the segment leaders but is plenty of grunt for a 1500-series truck. Key tech like trailer backing guidance will ease reversing with a trailer, and a new Tow/Haul+ mode adapts the transmission and engine tuning to handle heavier loads. The Tundra’s max payload of 1,940 pounds is respectable and is more than enough to handle any ATV or UTV that fits between the bed sides. Two different four-door cab options will be available as will 5.5, 6.5, or 8.1-foot beds.

Toyota completely revamped the Tundra’s interior for the new model. Luxury items like a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel all class up the experience. A 14-inch touchscreen commands the center stack of higher trims, helping the interior look thoroughly modern as opposed to the outgoing model’s dated accommodations. For off-road aficionados, the updated TRD Pro model gets the trim’s trademark wheels, unique bodywork, and 2.5-inch Fox internal bypass shocks designed to improve off-tarmac compliance and ability.

We’re very much looking forward to the all-new Tundra and cannot wait to explore its new powerplant and see how it affects the big Toyota’s towing and hauling abilities. Pricing will be revealed closer to the model’s final release. Expect the new Tundra to hit dealer lots later this year, and see them at the trailhead shortly thereafter.